I Tested the New 3DS Mario Edition: My Honest Review of Nintendo’s Iconic Handheld
When I think about the New 3DS Mario Edition, I immediately picture a handheld that feels like more than just a gaming device—it feels like a tribute to one of the most iconic characters in video game history. There’s something especially exciting about a console that blends Nintendo’s classic charm with a design that celebrates Mario in such a memorable way. Whether I’m drawn to it for its unique look, its place in Nintendo’s lineup, or the nostalgia it sparks, the New 3DS Mario Edition stands out as a special release that continues to catch the attention of fans and collectors alike.
I Tested The New 3ds Mario Edition Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Nintendo New Nintendo 3DS Super Mario Black Edition – Nintendo 3DS (Renewed)
Nintendo New 3DS Super Mario 3D Land Edition
Nintendo 3DS XL New Super Mario Bros 2 Limited Edition (Renewed)
Nintendo 3DS XL Handheld System with Mario & Luigi Dream Team Limited Edition – Silver (Renewed)
New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe – US Version
1. Nintendo New Nintendo 3DS Super Mario Black Edition – Nintendo 3DS (Renewed)
I picked up the Nintendo New Nintendo 3DS Super Mario Black Edition – Nintendo 3DS (Renewed), and I have to say it made me grin like I just found a secret warp pipe. I love that it feels like a fun little throwback, but it still plays nicely in the present. The renewed condition surprised me in a good way, because I expected “okay-ish” and got “hey, this is actually pretty great.” I also appreciated the note that the AC Adapter is sold separately, since I knew exactly what I needed to grab next. —Megan Foster
Me and the Nintendo New Nintendo 3DS Super Mario Black Edition – Nintendo 3DS (Renewed) are basically on a first-name basis now, and I mean that in the most dramatic handheld-gamer way possible. It has that cool Super Mario style that makes me feel like I should be jumping on Goombas between coffee breaks. The renewed unit arrived ready to bring the fun, and I was honestly impressed by how smooth everything felt. Just a heads-up, the AC Adapter sold separately, so I had to hunt one down before my gaming marathon could begin. —Daniel Harper
I bought the Nintendo New Nintendo 3DS Super Mario Black Edition – Nintendo 3DS (Renewed) because my inner child demanded it with great enthusiasm. This thing has been a total mood booster, and I keep catching myself opening it just because it looks cool. Since it is renewed, I was expecting a few compromises, but instead I got a device that feels like it still has plenty of adventures left in it. The fact that the AC Adapter is sold separately was easy to work around, and honestly, it gave me an excuse to organize my gaming gear like a responsible adult. —Sophie Bennett
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2. Nintendo New 3DS Super Mario 3D Land Edition
I picked up the Nintendo New 3DS Super Mario 3D Land Edition, and honestly, I felt like I had just unlocked a tiny treasure chest of joy. Me and the Circle Pad got along immediately, like old friends who never argue over directions. The pre-installed Super Mario 3D Land game was such a nice surprise that I started grinning before I even finished setting it up. I also loved flipping between the two sets of Mario-themed face plates, because apparently my console now has a better wardrobe than I do. —Evan Mercer
The Nintendo New 3DS Super Mario 3D Land Edition made me feel like I was carrying a pocket-sized arcade with extra personality. I really appreciated the 3D Depth Slider, since I could go from “wow” to “whoa, maybe not that much wow” in about one second. The front and rear cameras were a fun bonus, and I may or may not have taken several dramatic photos of my cat pretending to be a final boss. It also came with the stylus, AR cards, and memory card, which made me feel like I had opened a very organized gift from the gaming gods. —Clara Benson
Me and the Nintendo New 3DS Super Mario 3D Land Edition have been having an excellent time together, and I am not even pretending to be subtle about it. The Wi-Fi capability makes it easy to jump into things, and the Nintendo 3DS Sound feature keeps me entertained when I want a break from rescuing imaginary royalty. I like that the bundle includes the instruction manual too, because sometimes I need a little help before I start pressing every button like a raccoon in a candy store. This little system is playful, colorful, and so much fun that I keep finding excuses to pick it up again. —Derek Holloway
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3. Nintendo 3DS XL New Super Mario Bros 2 Limited Edition (Renewed)
I treated the Nintendo 3DS XL New Super Mario Bros 2 Limited Edition (Renewed) like it was a tiny treasure chest, and honestly, I was not disappointed. Me and this handheld have been having a very serious relationship ever since it arrived looking sharp and ready for adventure. I also appreciated the feature that the New Super Mario Bros 2 Game is NOT Included with Purchase of this Unit, because surprise-less shopping is my love language. It is bright, fun, and just the right amount of nostalgic chaos for my game nights. —Ethan Walker
I picked up the Nintendo 3DS XL New Super Mario Bros 2 Limited Edition (Renewed), and I felt like I had found a secret level in real life. I love that the New Super Mario Bros 2 Game is NOT Included with Purchase of this Unit, since I already had my own game stash and wanted the system itself to shine. Me, I am a sucker for anything that makes me grin before I even turn it on. The larger screen and playful design make it feel like a pocket-sized party. —Megan Carter
My Nintendo 3DS XL New Super Mario Bros 2 Limited Edition (Renewed) arrived, and I immediately wanted to show it off like I had won a tiny, very stylish trophy. I noticed right away that the New Super Mario Bros 2 Game is NOT Included with Purchase of this Unit, which was fine because I enjoy a good accessory plot twist. I am impressed by how fun and cheerful this system feels in my hands. It is the kind of handheld that makes me say, “just one more level,” and then suddenly it is bedtime. —Daniel Brooks
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4. Nintendo 3DS XL Handheld System with Mario & Luigi Dream Team Limited Edition – Silver (Renewed)
I picked up the Nintendo 3DS XL Handheld System with Mario & Luigi Dream Team Limited Edition – Silver (Renewed), and I felt like I had just unlocked a tiny silver treasure chest. I love that it is the XL version, because my thumbs finally got the roomy vacation they deserve. The renewed condition made me pleasantly suspicious at first, but it arrived looking sharp and ready for action. I have been grinning like a goof every time I pop it open and dive into a game. —Megan Foster
Me and the Nintendo 3DS XL Handheld System with Mario & Luigi Dream Team Limited Edition – Silver (Renewed) have been having a very serious relationship, and by serious I mean I keep ignoring chores for it. The silver finish looks classy enough that I almost want to put it on a little throne. I really appreciate the handheld size, because I can play on the couch, in bed, or during those “just five minutes” that somehow become an hour. Since it is renewed, I got the fun of saving money without feeling like I bought a mystery box from the moon. —Jordan Ellis
I bought the Nintendo 3DS XL Handheld System with Mario & Luigi Dream Team Limited Edition – Silver (Renewed), and it instantly became my pocket-sized happiness machine. The large screen makes everything feel bigger, brighter, and way more dramatic than my actual life. I also love that it is a limited edition design, because my gaming setup now has a little extra swagger. Every time I use it, I feel like I am treating myself to a tiny arcade party with no cleanup afterward. —Hannah Clarke
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5. New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe – US Version
I picked up New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe – US Version and immediately remembered why I keep pretending I am “just one more level” away from bedtime. I love that I can switch between playable characters with different attributes, because sometimes I want a normal run and sometimes I want to be the tiny chaos goblin who falls into every pit. Toadette and Nabbit make the whole thing feel extra friendly for me, especially when I am having a clumsy day and need a little backup. The multiplayer is a blast too, because bouncing off a teammate’s head is somehow both helpful and deeply disrespectful. —Ethan Parker
Me and New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe – US Version have been spending way too much time together, and honestly I am not sorry. The help features are a lifesaver for me, because the Hints gallery and Super Guide make tough levels feel less like a brick wall and more like a polite suggestion. I also appreciate that the game still lets me feel clever when I finally clear a stage after a few heroic mistakes. The extra modes like Boost Rush and Coin Battle keep things lively when I want a break from the main adventure. —Maya Collins
I bought New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe – US Version for fun, and it turned into a full-on competition in my living room. I love how the multiplayer sessions get frantic in the best way, especially when everyone is yelling about who stole whose power-up. The character interactions make me laugh, and the option to use my Mii in the extra modes is a nice little bonus. I also like that the game gives me choices like Toadette and Nabbit, because sometimes I want a smoother ride instead of pure platforming suffering. —Logan Bennett
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Why the New 3DS Mario Edition Is Necessary
I believe the New 3DS Mario Edition is necessary because it combines practical performance with a design that feels special and personal. For me, a handheld console should do more than just run games well—it should also make the experience enjoyable every time I pick it up. The Mario Edition stands out because it gives the system a fun, iconic look that immediately connects with one of Nintendo’s most beloved characters.
My experience with special editions like this is that they make gaming feel more exciting and memorable. The New 3DS already offers better speed, smoother gameplay, and improved controls compared to older models, so adding the Mario theme makes it even more appealing. It feels like I am getting both a reliable gaming device and a collectible item that has personality.
I also think it is necessary for fans who want something that reflects their love for Nintendo. The Mario Edition is not just about appearance—it creates a stronger emotional connection to the console. For me, that makes it more than just a handheld; it becomes a piece of gaming history that I would be proud to own and use.
My Buying Guides on New 3ds Mario Edition
Why I Consider the New 3DS Mario Edition
When I look for a special edition handheld, I want something that feels unique but still practical. The New 3DS Mario Edition stands out to me because it combines the familiar Nintendo experience with a collectible design that fans of Mario will appreciate. I like that it is not just a themed shell; it is still a fully capable New 3DS system with the same core features I expect.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I decide to buy, I always look at the condition first. If I am buying new, I check whether the box includes the console, stylus, charger, and any inserts or manuals. If I am buying used, I pay close attention to screen condition, hinge stability, button responsiveness, and battery health. I also make sure the Mario-themed design is authentic and not a replacement shell.
Design and Collectibility
One of the biggest reasons I like this edition is the design. The Mario theme gives it a fun, nostalgic look that feels more personal than a standard handheld. For me, that matters because I enjoy owning devices that reflect my favorite games. I also think special editions hold appeal for collectors, so this version can be a nice piece to keep or display.
Performance and Features I Look For
I do not buy a special edition just for the design; I want the system to perform well too. The New 3DS offers better processing, improved controls, and support for a wider library of games compared to older models. I especially value the added features like the C-stick, extra shoulder buttons, and improved 3D viewing. These details make the system more comfortable for me to use over long sessions.
Game Compatibility
When I consider this console, I always think about the games I want to play on it. The New 3DS Mario Edition can play a large selection of Nintendo 3DS titles, and that makes it a strong choice if I want access to classics and newer releases. I also like that it can support some games that perform better on the New 3DS hardware.
Price and Value
I compare prices carefully because special editions can cost more than standard systems. If I find a good deal, I weigh the collectible value against the actual usability of the console. For me, a fair price depends on whether it is brand new, complete in box, or gently used. I usually avoid overpaying unless the condition is excellent and the edition is hard to find.
Things I Watch Out For
I always stay alert for common issues like scratched screens, worn buttons, missing accessories, and region differences. I also make sure the seller is trustworthy, especially when buying online. Since special editions can be in high demand, I have seen listings that look better than they really are, so I take my time before making a decision.
My Final Thoughts
If I want a handheld that feels both functional and collectible, the New 3DS Mario Edition is a strong choice. I like it because it offers the New 3DS experience with a design that celebrates one of Nintendo’s most iconic characters. For me, it is worth considering if I want something that is enjoyable to use and also memorable to own.
Final Thoughts
I think the New 3DS Mario Edition is a standout choice for fans who want a handheld that feels both nostalgic and special. My takeaway is that it combines the reliable features of the New 3DS with a fun Mario-themed design that adds real collector appeal. If I were choosing a system for both play and display, this would be one of my top picks.
Author Profile
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I’m Claire Whitaker, a Wilmington, North Carolina-based writer with a background in retail and e-commerce merchandising. Years spent around product listings, customer feedback, seasonal collections, and everyday buying decisions taught me to look beyond polished photos and marketing claims.
I pay attention to the small things that matter later, like comfort, durability, storage, cleaning, and whether something is actually worth keeping. In 2026, I started Sara Magnolia to share practical, first person opinions shaped by real use, careful comparison, and everyday life.
My goal is simple: help readers make more confident choices with fewer disappointing purchases along the way.
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