Nintendo confirms 3DS XL Circle Pad Pro

It was a surprise when the 3DS XL was revealed without a second circle pad – that it’s getting a Circle Pad Pro expansion is perhaps less of a surprise.

Andraisang reports the company has confirmed such a peripheral, and that it will be released in 2012.

However, considering the luke-warm response to the original Circle Pad Pro – mainly due to its aesthetic-destroying properties – many will remain surprised that Nintendo didn’t take the option of including a second stick on its new machine.

A couple of other details have also been confirmed.

Firstly, those upgrading from a 3DS to a XL will be able to transfer their data and purchases. Secondly, the new machine remains compatible with the Kid Icarus stand.