Nintendo DS
Image: Damien McFerran / Nintendo Life

We've already told you what we reckon about the new DSi XL and its mammoth screens, but if you live in Europe then you'll get a chance to try it yourself when the console launches on March 5th, 2010.

Nintendo's lovely press department has just sent over the announcement now, although there is no mention of price as yet. It's also continuing the recent spell of DSis launching with pre-loaded software, with Brain Training: Arts Edition and 6-in-1 Dictionary both appearing on the internal memory as if by magic. Anyway, here's the press release:

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Get ready to experience your favourite Nintendo DS games like never before – on the big screens and via the wider viewing angle of the Nintendo DSi XL, launching across Europe on 5th March 2010.

Two 4.2 inch screens, which are 93% bigger than the screen on the Nintendo DS Lite, really bring the adventure and action to life. Experience the legendary side scrolling world of New Super Mario Bros or the twists and turns of the Mario Kart circuit in a whole new way. The larger pen-like stylus also makes extended stylus gameplay more comfortable to allow better control; making directing Link around the dungeons of The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks, for example, far more natural to play.

The Nintendo DSi XL’s improved wider viewing angle screen also provides a new way for you to enjoy games together with friends and family, making it easier than ever to watch and join in the fun.

The new member of the Nintendo DS family is launching in two colours – wine red and dark brown, with a glossy sheen on top and matt finish on the underside that provides excellent grip when resting on a table or other surface during gameplay.

The new console also comes pre-loaded with two Nintendo DSiWare software: Dr Kawashima’s: Little Bit of Brain Training: Arts Edition and Dictionary 6 in 1 with Camera Function, as well as the Nintendo DSi Browser, which enables you to easily access the internet via a Wi-Fi connection.

The DSi XL will feature the full capabilities of the original Nintendo DSi which launched in Europe in April 2009 enabling you to download games through the Nintendo DSi Shop, create, customise and share photos with friends and family and listen to and play with your music and sounds.

Nintendo DSi XL is the fourth member of the Nintendo DS family which are currently enjoyed by over 100 million people around the world. It features the trademark dual screens and the simple-to-use controls that players have come to love, but will take your gaming experience to a new level.

To truly understand the difference Nintendo DSi XL makes to your favourite games, you need to get your hands on it – get ready to do just that on 5th March 2010, when Nintendo DSi XL is available across Europe.

The countdown begins now!