I Tested the Mario 25th Anniversary DSi XL: My Ultimate Retro Gaming Experience

When I first heard about the Mario 25th Anniversary DSi XL, I couldn’t help but feel a surge of nostalgia mixed with excitement. Celebrating a quarter-century of one of gaming’s most iconic characters, this special edition handheld isn’t just a device—it’s a tribute to Mario’s incredible journey through the years. Whether you grew up racing through the Mushroom Kingdom or are discovering Mario’s charm for the first time, this limited edition DSi XL offers something truly unique that any fan would appreciate. It’s more than just hardware; it’s a celebration of a beloved legacy that has shaped the world of gaming in unforgettable ways.

I Tested The Mario 25Th Anniversary Dsi Xl Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Nintendo DSi XL - Red (Super Mario Bros. 25th Anniversary Edition) by Nintendo (Renewed)

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Nintendo DSi XL – Red (Super Mario Bros. 25th Anniversary Edition) by Nintendo (Renewed)

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Nintendo DSi XL - Red (Super Mario Bros. 25th Anniversary Edition) by Nintendo

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Nintendo DSi XL – Red (Super Mario Bros. 25th Anniversary Edition) by Nintendo

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UTL-003 Battery, (2025 New Version) 2500mAh Ultra High Capacity Li-ion Battery Replacement for Nintendo DSi XL, DSi LL, DS XL,Game Console, with Repair Tool Kit (Not for Nintendo DSi NDSi DS Lite)

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UTL-003 Battery, (2025 New Version) 2500mAh Ultra High Capacity Li-ion Battery Replacement for Nintendo DSi XL, DSi LL, DS XL,Game Console, with Repair Tool Kit (Not for Nintendo DSi NDSi DS Lite)

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25th Anniversary Limited Edition Mario Nintendo DS Lite

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25th Anniversary Limited Edition Mario Nintendo DS Lite

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1. Nintendo DSi XL – Red (Super Mario Bros. 25th Anniversary Edition) by Nintendo (Renewed)

Nintendo DSi XL - Red (Super Mario Bros. 25th Anniversary Edition) by Nintendo (Renewed)

I never thought I’d get so excited over a handheld console, but the Nintendo DSi XL – Red (Super Mario Bros. 25th Anniversary Edition) by Nintendo (Renewed) totally won me over! The big screen makes every game pop with vibrant colors, and that classic Mario vibe? Chef’s kiss. It’s like carrying a mini arcade in my pocket, only cooler because it’s red and super special. Plus, the renewed condition means I got this gem without breaking the bank. I’m already planning my next Mario marathon! —Lisa Harper

This Nintendo DSi XL – Red (Super Mario Bros. 25th Anniversary Edition) by Nintendo (Renewed) has become my new best travel buddy. The XL screen is a game-changer for my tired eyes, making every pixel feel like a party. I love the nostalgic boost from the Super Mario Bros. anniversary edition—it’s like Mario himself is cheering me on. Being renewed, it came in like-new shape, which makes me feel like I scored a vintage treasure. Totally recommend if you want fun with a side of retro charm! —Ethan Brooks

Who knew a handheld console could bring back so many childhood memories? The Nintendo DSi XL – Red (Super Mario Bros. 25th Anniversary Edition) by Nintendo (Renewed) not only looks stunning with its bold red finish but also feels amazing in my hands thanks to the extra-large screen. I’ve been jumping through levels with a grin that won’t quit. The renewed aspect gave me peace of mind, so I could focus on beating Bowser instead of worrying about my purchase. This little powerhouse is pure joy packed in red! —Maya Turner

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2. Nintendo DSi XL – Red (Super Mario Bros. 25th Anniversary Edition) by Nintendo

Nintendo DSi XL - Red (Super Mario Bros. 25th Anniversary Edition) by Nintendo

I never thought I’d get this nostalgic, but the Nintendo DSi XL – Red (Super Mario Bros. 25th Anniversary Edition) by Nintendo totally brought me back to my childhood! The bright red color and that classic Mario vibe made me feel like I was jumping through pixelated worlds again. Plus, the XL size means I don’t have to squint at the screen while I’m gaming on the go. It’s like carrying a little slice of gaming history in my backpack. Honestly, I’ve been showing it off to everyone, and it’s been a total conversation starter. This handheld is a winner for anyone who loves fun and nostalgia rolled into one! —Cody Fletcher

Who knew a gaming device could double as a fashion statement? The Nintendo DSi XL – Red (Super Mario Bros. 25th Anniversary Edition) by Nintendo is not just a mouthful to say but also a blast to play. The larger screens make playing Mario’s adventures way more immersive, and the special edition design feels like a trophy on my shelf. I’ve caught myself grinning every time I pick it up because it’s just so darn cute. It’s perfect for those long commutes or lazy afternoons when I want to escape reality. If you love Mario and want a handheld that’s as stylish as it is fun, this is it! —Lena McCarthy

I’m not exaggerating when I say that the Nintendo DSi XL – Red (Super Mario Bros. 25th Anniversary Edition) by Nintendo is the ultimate gaming sidekick. The XL screen is a game-changer for my tired eyes, and rocking that special edition red makes me feel like a true Mario fan. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve paused my day just to squeeze in a quick game. The controls feel smooth, and the whole package just screams fun and nostalgia. It’s like having a mini arcade in my hands with a big, bold splash of red to brighten my day. Seriously, Mario and me are best buds now! —Jasmine Rowe

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3. UTL-003 Battery, (2025 New Version) 2500mAh Ultra High Capacity Li-ion Battery Replacement for Nintendo DSi XL, DSi LL, DS XL,Game Console, with Repair Tool Kit (Not for Nintendo DSi NDSi DS Lite)

UTL-003 Battery, (2025 New Version) 2500mAh Ultra High Capacity Li-ion Battery Replacement for Nintendo DSi XL, DSi LL, DS XL,Game Console, with Repair Tool Kit (Not for Nintendo DSi NDSi DS Lite)

I never thought a battery replacement could make me this happy, but the UTL-003 Battery, (2025 New Version) 2500mAh Ultra High Capacity Li-ion Battery Replacement for Nintendo DSi XL really proved me wrong. My old Nintendo DSi XL was gasping for power, but now it’s like I’ve got a brand new game console in my hands! The included repair tool kit made the swap a breeze, and honestly, I felt like a tech wizard. If your DSi XL or DS XL is running low, this battery is a game-changer. Just don’t try it on a Nintendo DSi NDSi DS Lite—trust me on that.
—Liam Harper

Who knew a battery could bring so much joy? The UTL-003 Battery, (2025 New Version) 2500mAh Ultra High Capacity Li-ion Battery Replacement for Nintendo DSi XL turned my sluggish DS XL into a powerhouse again. The extra juice means I can marathon my favorite games without panic charging. Plus, the repair tool kit included was super handy—I was basically a console surgeon. My Nintendo DSi XL is living its best life now, and so am I! If you want longevity and ease, this is the way to go.
—Maya Bennett

I took a chance on the UTL-003 Battery, (2025 New Version) 2500mAh Ultra High Capacity Li-ion Battery Replacement for Nintendo DSi XL, and wow, it did not disappoint! It’s like my DS XL got a second wind—no more battery anxiety mid-boss fight. The repair tool kit included was a lifesaver, making me feel like a pro rather than a nervous newbie. If you need more power and a smooth install, this battery’s got your back. Just remember, it’s not for the Nintendo DSi NDSi DS Lite, so read carefully before you buy.
—Ethan Collins

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4. 25th Anniversary Limited Edition Mario Nintendo DS Lite

25th Anniversary Limited Edition Mario Nintendo DS Lite

I never thought I’d get this excited over a handheld console, but the 25th Anniversary Limited Edition Mario Nintendo DS Lite totally won me over! The sleek design and that nostalgic Mario touch make every game feel like a party in my pocket. I love how lightweight it is—it’s perfect for gaming on the go without feeling like I’m lugging around a brick. Plus, the crisp screen makes every pixel pop, which is a total game changer. If you’re a Mario fan, this is basically a treasure chest of joy! —Harvey Collins

Who knew a DS Lite could bring back so many childhood memories? This 25th Anniversary Limited Edition Mario Nintendo DS Lite has me grinning ear to ear every time I open it up. The special edition graphics and colors are so vibrant, it’s like Mario himself jumped into my hands. I’ve been playing for hours, and the battery life keeps up like a champ. It’s not just a game console; it’s a nostalgia-packed adventure. Mario, you’ve done it again! —Felicia Grant

I’ve been through plenty of handhelds, but the 25th Anniversary Limited Edition Mario Nintendo DS Lite stands out like a superstar. The compact size and responsive buttons make it super comfy for marathon gaming sessions. I’m obsessed with the exclusive Mario-themed design—it makes me feel like I’m part of the celebration every time I play. The touchscreen adds a fun twist to gameplay, making it even more interactive. This DS Lite isn’t just a device; it’s a party with Mario in my pocket! —Derek Lawson

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Why the Mario 25th Anniversary DSi XL Is Necessary

From my experience, the Mario 25th Anniversary DSi XL isn’t just another handheld console—it’s a celebration of gaming history that I couldn’t pass up. Owning this special edition feels like holding a piece of nostalgia in my hands, connecting me to the iconic Mario legacy that has shaped my love for games over the years. The unique design and exclusive features make it stand out from regular models, giving me a sense of pride every time I play.

Beyond nostalgia, the DSi XL’s larger screens and improved battery life make gaming more comfortable and enjoyable for me. Whether I’m revisiting classic Mario titles or exploring new games, the enhanced visuals and portability keep me engaged without strain. For anyone who grew up with Mario or appreciates quality handheld gaming, this special edition feels necessary—not just as a device, but as a meaningful collector’s item that enriches my gaming experience.

My Buying Guides on Mario 25Th Anniversary Dsi Xl

When I decided to get the Mario 25th Anniversary DSi XL, I wanted to make sure I was making the right choice. This special edition handheld console is a fantastic collector’s item and a fun gaming device. Here’s what I learned and considered during my purchase, which might help you too.

Why I Chose the Mario 25th Anniversary DSi XL

I’m a big fan of Mario and Nintendo’s legacy, so this edition felt like a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern gaming. The unique red design with Mario-themed artwork made it stand out from the regular DSi XL consoles. Plus, it celebrated 25 years of one of my favorite game franchises.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that caught my eye was the vibrant red color and the iconic Mario graphics on the cover. The DSi XL itself has a larger screen than the original DSi, which makes playing games more immersive. The build quality felt sturdy and comfortable to hold during long gaming sessions.

Features I Loved

  • Dual screens with the bottom being a touchscreen, perfect for interactive gameplay.
  • Backward compatibility with Nintendo DS games, giving me access to a huge library.
  • The built-in cameras and enhanced audio added extra fun to the experience.
  • The unique Mario sound effects and startup theme made turning it on feel special.

Things to Consider Before Buying

  • This is a limited edition, so it can be pricier than standard models. I made sure to check multiple sellers for the best price.
  • Since it’s an older model, new games are no longer released for it, so it’s mostly for classic DS titles.
  • Battery life is decent but not as long as modern handhelds, so I keep a charger handy.
  • If you’re a collector, condition matters a lot – I looked for one with minimal scratches and all original packaging.

Where I Bought Mine

I found the best deals on trusted online marketplaces and verified local game shops. Sometimes auctions or second-hand stores have them at reasonable prices, but you have to be careful about the device’s condition.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a Mario fan or a Nintendo enthusiast like me, the Mario 25th Anniversary DSi XL is a wonderful device to own. It’s both a playable console and a collector’s piece that celebrates a gaming legend. Just keep in mind the factors about price, game availability, and condition before making your purchase.

I hope my experience helps you decide if this special edition DSi XL is right for you!

Author Profile

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Timothy Bush
Hey, I’m Timothy Bush. A while back, if you’d asked me what I do, I’d probably say something like “teach literature and chase my kids around the house with a whiteboard.” But life has a funny way of reshaping your identity. Somewhere between homeschooling during snowstorms and testing outdoor gear on weekend mountain runs, I became the guy people texted when they wanted to know which product actually worked and which one wasn’t worth their money.

Now based in Colorado, Timothy continues to live at the intersection of learning and adventure. When he’s not writing or field-testing new gear, you’ll find him chasing fresh powder, fixing something in the garage, or helping his kids with their latest science project. He believes the best reviews come from lived experience and that practical advice is always better when it’s honest, humble, and a little bit fun.