KLRR Brings Clear Shells to Nintendo 3DS XL and New 3DS
KendyLabs and Raretro Consoles have launched KLRR, a new venture bringing transparent shells to the Nintendo 3DS XL and New 3DS, a feat that addresses one of the most persistent hardware challenges in the handheld modding community since the days of the Game Boy Advance's IPS screen retrofits.
This collaboration marks the release of what the duo describes as the world’s first functional, publicly available clear shell kits for the Nintendo 3DS line. The initial offerings target the 3DS XL and New 3DS, systems notoriously difficult to modify due to their intricate design.
Transparent shells have been a staple for systems like the original Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and even the Nintendo Switch. However, the 3DS family has remained a much harder target, according to KLRR site. Its unique hinge design, layered assembly, tight internal tolerances, and complex ribbon cable routing have long deterred widespread shell customisation.
Cracking the 3DS Shell Challenge
KLRR aims to change this, having spent close to two years in development. The entire project has been self-funded, without any crowdfunding campaigns or corporate backing. This approach allowed the team to focus purely on material testing, fitment revisions, and critical hinge durability concerns, all validated through repeated real-world assembly tests.
The team has already showcased fully assembled kits for both the 3DS XL and New 3DS. These demonstrations prove the shells can withstand full assembly and everyday handling, a crucial factor for any modder considering a long-term installation. The production process takes place in the United States, with a hands-on approach prioritising clarity, material strength, and a finished product that feels appropriate for collectors and modders alike.
What this hints at, for the scene, is a genuine commitment to quality over speed. The two-year, self-funded development cycle speaks volumes about the passion involved in solving a genuinely difficult engineering problem for a system that's notoriously hard to mod. This mirrors the dedication seen in the development of custom OSD firmwares for IPS-modded handhelds, where community-driven efforts push the boundaries of what's possible.
What This Means for 3DS Modders
While full pricing is still to be confirmed, KLRR expects the Nintendo 3DS XL shell kit to sell for under £80. The New Nintendo 3DS shell kit, however, could cost as much as £135. This higher price reflects the added complexity of that particular model, which often involves more delicate components and a more intricate internal layout.
It is worth noting that installing one of these kits is not a simple task. The team at KLRR explicitly states that 3DS XL and New 3DS shell swaps require careful disassembly, precise ribbon cable handling, intricate hinge work, and screen removal before reassembly. This is not considered a beginner-friendly installation, demanding patience and a steady hand from anyone attempting the modification.
This project, as reported by Time Extension, fills a significant gap in the handheld modding market. It provides a long-requested option for enthusiasts to personalise their 3DS systems, bringing a classic aesthetic to a modern classic. The availability of these kits could spark a new wave of customisation for the 3DS family, much like the resurgence of Game Boy customisation we have seen over the last decade.
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Originally published by Time Extension. Read original article.