Nintendo has announced yet another limited edition 3DS XL variant, but this one will probably never be spotted outside Japan.
After releasing the Pikachu-themed Nintendo 3DS XL earlier this year in Japan via Pokemon Centers, the company is now releasing another Japan bound Pokemon-themed 3DS XL soon, this time featuring the popular Pokemon Charizard.
Even those living in Japan, however, will have a hard time getting their hands on the Charizard-adorned console, because customers actually have to win their chance to buy one.
In a lottery-type of competition, customers have to win a raffle to get the chance to buy the new 3DS XL variant. The raffle will run from Nov. 3 through Nov. 26, and prospective participants can either enter the competition from one of the Pokemon Center stores in Japan or mail in their entry form.
The company will announce the winners on Dec. 7, and the lucky ones will be able to purchase their Charizard 3DS XL console between Dec. 15 and Jan. 14. The Japan-exclusive special edition 3DS XL will cost ¥18,900, i.e. roughly $237. No games appear to come bundled with the console.
The limited edition 3DS XL will hit the market in time for the holiday shopping season, and the Pokemon folks are recommending consumers to buy it as a Christmas present. The company has created several Pokemon-themed handhelds throughout the years, and the Charizard one seems to be one of the better ones.
Considering that the handheld's availability will be so limited in Japan, however, the Charizard 3DS XL special edition will most likely never become available in the United States or Europe.
Aside from the design, the Charizard 3DS XL is basically identical to all other Japanese 3DS XL devices. Still, the design is what sets it apart. The front features a gold outline of Charizard in a roaring position, chalked against a black background. When the 3DS XL is completely opened up, it becomes obvious that the Charizard is in fact not roaring, but shooting a plume of fire. The fire appears only on the back of the 3DS XL.
In addition to the Charizard console, the company's Christmas 2012 stock also includes festive Pikachus with Santa hoodies, decorative plates, posters, stuffed snowman Torchic/ Pikachu/ Oshwott, cell phone straps, and other offerings.
