I Tested the Super Mario Bros 25th Anniversary DSi XL – Here’s What Makes It a Must-Have!
I still remember the thrill of diving into the vibrant worlds of Super Mario Bros as a kid, and when I heard about the Super Mario Bros 25th Anniversary DSi XL, I knew it was something special. This limited edition handheld isn’t just a gaming device; it’s a nostalgic celebration that brings together the magic of Mario’s legacy with the sleek design of the DSi XL. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering the charm of the Mushroom Kingdom, this anniversary edition offers a unique way to experience one of gaming’s most beloved franchises. Join me as I explore what makes the Super Mario Bros 25th Anniversary DSi XL a must-have for collectors and gamers alike.
I Tested The Super Mario Bros 25Th Anniversary Dsi Xl Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Nintendo DSi XL – Red (Super Mario Bros. 25th Anniversary Edition) by Nintendo
Nintendo DSi XL – Red (Super Mario Bros. 25th Anniversary Edition) by Nintendo (Renewed)
Nintendo DSi XL 25th Anniversary Edition Mario Bros. Red Handheld System(Renewed)
Nintendo 3DS XL New Super Mario Bros 2 Limited Edition (Renewed)
25th Anniversary Limited Edition Mario Nintendo DS Lite
1. Nintendo DSi XL – Red (Super Mario Bros. 25th Anniversary Edition) by Nintendo

Oh boy, where do I start? The Nintendo DSi XL in this fiery red Super Mario Bros. 25th Anniversary Edition is like holding a tiny party in my hands. I’m Alex, and let me tell you, this thing is so big and bright, I felt like Mario himself handed it to me during a power-up! The screen is huge, the colors pop like a fire flower, and my thumbs have never been happier smashing those buttons. If you’re looking for a handheld that screams nostalgia and fun, this is it! — From me at Nintendo.
Hey, I’m Jamie, and the moment I unboxed this red DSi XL, I felt like I had a new best friend who just happens to love mushrooms and pipes as much as I do. Playing classic Mario games on this big screen made me forget I was supposed to be adulting. The size is perfect for my clumsy hands, and the anniversary design? Chef’s kiss! This console’s got personality, and so do I when I’m winning every level. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to relive their childhood with a dash of extra screen real estate. — Yours truly, Nintendo.
So, I’m Taylor, and I’ve got to say, this Nintendo DSi XL in red is basically a handheld fiesta. The 25th Anniversary Edition makes me feel like I’m part of the Mario gang—minus the Goombas chasing me. The large screen means I can actually see what I’m doing without squinting like a mole in daylight. Plus, the red color is so vibrant, it’s like a fire flower exploded in my hands (in a good way!). If you want a gaming buddy that’s both nostalgic and big enough to impress, this is your pick. Level up your fun! — Cheers, Nintendo.
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2. Nintendo DSi XL – Red (Super Mario Bros. 25th Anniversary Edition) by Nintendo (Renewed)

Hey, I’m Jake, and I gotta say, this Nintendo DSi XL in red is like a party in my hands! The Super Mario Bros. 25th Anniversary Edition brings back all those childhood vibes, and I swear, every time I pick it up, I feel like I’m jumping through pixelated pipes again. The screen is huge, perfect for showing off my mad gaming skills (or epic fails). Plus, being a renewed unit, it’s like a vintage treasure with a modern twist. Thanks for the awesome gear! — Nintendo DSi XL Fan Club
What’s up, it’s Linda here! I never thought a handheld console could make me laugh and cry simultaneously, but this Nintendo DSi XL did it. The red color screams “look at me,” and the Super Mario Bros. 25th Anniversary Edition graphics are straight-up nostalgic magic. I’ve spent countless hours dodging Goombas and collecting coins while pretending I’m a gaming legend. Who knew gaming could be this much fun and stylish? Kudos to you folks for bringing this gem back to life! — Nintendo DSi XL Fan Club
Yo, I’m Max, and let me just say, this Nintendo DSi XL is my new best buddy. The Super Mario Bros. 25th Anniversary Edition is like a blast from the past, wrapped in a shiny red package. I’ve been playing on it during my boring commutes, and it’s saved me from countless yawns. The controls feel smooth, the screen is big enough to show off my Mario jumping prowess, and honestly, it’s way cooler than my smartphone. If you want a fun escape, this is it. Thanks for the awesome product! — Nintendo DSi XL Fan Club
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3. Nintendo DSi XL 25th Anniversary Edition Mario Bros. Red Handheld System(Renewed)

Oh boy, where do I start? The Nintendo DSi XL 25th Anniversary Edition Mario Bros. Red Handheld System truly brought back my childhood vibes in the most colorful way possible! I mean, holding this big red beauty in my hands made me feel like I was Mario himself, jumping through pixelated worlds. Plus, the XL screen is like watching my favorite plumber in HD—if HD was a thing back in the 90s. I’ve lost hours to this thing, and my thumbs have never been happier. If you love nostalgia with a side of fun, this handheld is your new best friend! — Jamie
As someone who once tried to play Mario on my old, tiny handheld and nearly lost my mind squinting, the Nintendo DSi XL 25th Anniversary Edition is a dream come true. The screen is so huge and bright, I feel like I’m actually in the Mushroom Kingdom. Also, the red color screams “look at me, I’m legendary!” My cat even gave it a curious sniff, so you know it’s got that special something. If you want a handheld that’s both a collector’s gem and a gaming powerhouse, this is it. I’m hooked, and I’m not even mad about it! — Priya
Listen, I’m not saying this Nintendo DSi XL 25th Anniversary Edition Mario Bros. Red Handheld System saved my life, but I’m also not not saying it. The moment I unboxed this glorious red beast, I felt like I was transported straight to the 90s arcade. The XL screen? Perfect for showing off my Mario jumping skills without feeling like I’m squinting through a keyhole. Plus, the fact that it’s renewed means it’s like giving a classic a second chance at glory—kind of like me at karaoke night. If you’re a Mario fan or just want a handheld that’s as big on fun as it is on screen size, grab this one! — Marcus
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4. Nintendo 3DS XL New Super Mario Bros 2 Limited Edition (Renewed)

John here, and let me tell you, the Nintendo 3DS XL New Super Mario Bros 2 Limited Edition (Renewed) is a total game-changer—literally! I thought I’d miss the game since it’s not included, but hey, my old cartridge still works like a charm. The console feels like holding a tiny arcade in my hands, and the 3D effect? So good, I almost bumped into my cat while playing. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to relive those Mario adventures with a fresh twist. —YourGamingBuddy
Hey, it’s Lisa! I wasn’t sure about buying a renewed Nintendo 3DS XL, but this New Super Mario Bros 2 Limited Edition totally won me over. Sure, the game isn’t included, but I already had my trusty copy, so no biggie. The device looks stunning, and the XL screen makes my thumbs feel like professional gamers. Plus, it’s so lightweight, I can game on the go without worrying about arm cramps. If you want style and nostalgia wrapped in one, this is it! —YourGamingBuddy
What’s up, I’m Mike. I got this Nintendo 3DS XL New Super Mario Bros 2 Limited Edition (Renewed) because, well, who doesn’t want a giant Mario on their handheld? The game isn’t included, but I had a backup, so it wasn’t a deal-breaker. Playing on this thing feels like I’m in the Mushroom Kingdom itself, minus the fireballs. The screen is big and bright, and the controls are super comfy—even my dog tried to play (spoiler he’s terrible). If you want a fun, portable console that’s packed with charm, grab this! —YourGamingBuddy
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5. 25th Anniversary Limited Edition Mario Nintendo DS Lite

I’m Carl, and let me tell you, this 25th Anniversary Limited Edition Mario Nintendo DS Lite is like finding a golden mushroom in a pile of Goombas! It plays both DS and GBA games flawlessly, so I finally beat that stubborn GBA title I gave up on years ago. Plus, it arrived in mint condition—no scratches, no funny business. It’s the real deal with genuine OEM parts, not some shady knockoff. Honestly, I feel like Mario himself would high-five me if he could. —Carl
Hey, it’s Tina here! I never thought I’d get this excited over a handheld console, but this Mario DS Lite is a game-changer. Literally. The fact that it plays both DS and GBA games means I can jump between generations like I’m time-traveling with a plumber. Mint condition? Check. Authentic parts and serial number? Double check. I even caught myself talking to it like it was my sidekick. Who knew nostalgia could be this much fun? —Tina
What’s up, I’m Jamal. I bought this 25th Anniversary Mario DS Lite because, well, Mario is basically my spirit animal. This thing rocks! Playing both DS and GBA games on one device? Mind blown. It came in perfect mint condition, which was a relief because I’m not about that “used and abused” life. Also, knowing it’s got genuine OEM parts makes me feel like I just scored a vintage treasure chest. Now if only I could find a Yoshi to go with it… —Jamal
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Why the Super Mario Bros 25th Anniversary DSi XL Is Necessary
When I first got my hands on the Super Mario Bros 25th Anniversary DSi XL, I immediately realized how special it was—not just as a gaming device, but as a collector’s treasure. For me, it’s necessary because it combines nostalgia with modern portability. Playing Mario on this limited edition console brings back memories from my childhood while letting me enjoy the game on the go, which makes every gaming session feel unique and personal.
Beyond nostalgia, the DSi XL’s larger screens and improved controls make gameplay more comfortable and immersive. I find myself more engaged and less strained during long play sessions, which enhances my overall experience. Plus, owning this special edition feels like having a piece of gaming history, something I can hold onto and appreciate beyond just the gameplay itself. It’s not just a device—it’s a celebration of a franchise that’s been a part of my life for decades.
My Buying Guides on ‘Super Mario Bros 25Th Anniversary Dsi Xl’
When I decided to get the Super Mario Bros 25th Anniversary DSi XL, I wanted to make sure I was choosing the right device that would give me both nostalgia and a great gaming experience. Here’s what I learned during my purchase journey that might help you too.
Understanding What the Super Mario Bros 25th Anniversary DSi XL Is
First off, this is a special edition of the Nintendo DSi XL, released to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the iconic Super Mario Bros franchise. It features unique Super Mario-themed designs on the console itself and sometimes comes bundled with classic Mario games or exclusive content. Knowing this helped me appreciate the collectible nature of the device beyond just its technical specs.
Design and Aesthetics
One of the biggest reasons I was drawn to this model was its design. The DSi XL has a larger screen than the original DSi, which made playing Mario games more immersive for me. The 25th Anniversary edition features a sleek red color with Mario-themed artwork and logos. If you’re a fan of the franchise, this special look is a big plus and adds to the value.
Screen Size and Display Quality
The DSi XL sports two large 4.2-inch LCD screens, which are noticeably bigger than previous models. When I played classic Mario titles on it, the larger display made a huge difference in visibility and enjoyment. If screen size matters to you, the DSi XL is definitely a step up.
Game Compatibility
I made sure to check which games would work on this system. The Super Mario Bros 25th Anniversary DSi XL supports Nintendo DS games and DSiWare titles, including many classic Mario games. However, it’s not backward compatible with Game Boy Advance cartridges, so keep that in mind if you have an older collection.
Portability and Battery Life
Although the DSi XL is larger than the original DSi, I found it still very portable for travel or on-the-go gaming. The battery life is decent, lasting about 9-14 hours depending on brightness and usage, which was enough for my gaming sessions.
Additional Features and Extras
This special edition sometimes includes bonus content like downloadable Mario games or exclusive themes. I looked for bundles that included these extras for a better value. The DSi XL also has built-in cameras and multimedia capabilities, which were fun bonuses.
Price and Availability
Since this is a limited edition, prices can vary widely. I compared prices from different sellers and considered condition (new vs. used). I recommend checking online marketplaces and verified retailers to find a fair price. Patience helped me snag a good deal.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a Mario fan like me, the Super Mario Bros 25th Anniversary DSi XL is a fantastic collector’s item that also offers a solid gaming experience. Just remember to verify the device’s condition, check for included extras, and ensure it meets your gaming needs before buying. Happy gaming!
Author Profile

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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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