Hoping for a Second 3DS XL Analog Stick? Well Too Bad

Even though the dimensions of the 3DS XL are approximately double that of its predecessor, there just is not enough room for the second analog stick hardcore handheld gamers have been clamoring for.

Nintendo President Satoru Iwata, in and interview with IGN, offered an explanation for the exclusion of a second analog stick.

“When we looked at the design of the 3DS XL we had to look at various factors. One was battery life, one was the overall size of the unit, and we had to make some trade-offs,” Iwata said. “The choice, if we were going to include the second analog stick, was to reduce the size of the battery or make the unit much bigger.”

This explanation may not satisfy the 3DS consumer base, but Iwata argues his company’s choice was the right one. If you don’t think so, well, that’s just too bad.

“It perhaps puts a burden on people that really wanted that second stick, [but] it’s a call we had to make and these people will have to live with it,” he said.

A second stick peripheral, similar to the one available for the original 3DS, will more than likely be the only option. However, the device will still ship with a variety of improvements, each enriching the overall 3DS experience. Some of these changes include a 4GB SD card, improved battery life, and even a cubby for the stylus.