Forgot password?  |  Register  |    
User Name:     Password:    
Review   

Catalyst Slim Cover for Nintendo DSi XL Review


See PixlBit's Review Policies

On 08/25/2010 at 10:37 AM by Chris Mabrey

No, CM4’s DSi XL case will not run Crysis.
RECOMMENDATION:

For those who want to change the style of their DSi XLs.

CM4 has created a snazzy case for DSi XL owners craving a little change in their gaming style. The Catalyst Slim Cover for the Nintendo DSi XL is a sturdy, aesthetically charged fabric wrapped aluminum case. While the case is a little expensive for what CM4 is offering, we believe it's a very viable option for those interested in upgrading the look and feel of their DSis.

It's worth noting that the actual aluminum base is malleable. This doesn't mean that CM4's cover will bend easily, though. It simply means that if, by chance, something happens to misshape the cover, a little bit of brute bending will have it back to its original form. Over the time Jason and I have been using the product, we tried hitting the case against more than a few objects, and we didn't hold back. We were both a bit surprised as to how well the form held up, as there wasn't much bending at all.

It should also be said that there are a few weaker, narrower points on one part of the cover. They're pretty simple to bend and may bend on accident, requiring a quick adjustment. Should the cover take substantial abuse on its own, especially to one of a few flimsier parts, it might become irreparably damaged, but the odds of this happening while it's on a DSI XL are slim-to-none.

By no means is CM4's DSi XL case going to protect your DS from major trauma, but that's not the intention of the product. Another important aspect worth noting is of the softer fabric lining the interior of the case. This greatly reduces scratching and tears to the actual DS from the case while it’s on—a very nice touch for a case product. From a few simple tests on use and durability, I believe CM4's DSi XL Catalyst Slim Cover will certainly keep its form and hold up well under normal use on the DSi XL.

Really, the deciding factor in CM4's DSi XL catalyst slim cover is an aesthetic one. From the package to the product, CM4 offers a clean, sleek display. It looks like a high-end, premium product. If the buyer is someone who enjoys a feel similar to that of leather, and likes a modern two-toned color scheme, CM4’s Catalyst is perfect. The tightly-wound fabric surrounding the case provides a slight grip that doesn’t tire the holder’s fingers while maintaining a smooth, comfortable feel.

The overall case almost completely avoids the gaudy, bulky features that similar products have in favor of smooth contours around shapes, like the DSi camera, and sides. It will eventually start to show wear-and-tear, but with a little care to your DS and the problem should be minimized. Even then, the Catalyst should age better than other products thanks to the fabric.

The Catalyst Slim Cover for Nintendo DSi XL retails for $29.99 and can be ordered directly from CM4's online shop and various retailers.

Review Policy

In our reviews, we'll try not to bore you with minutiae of a game. Instead, we'll outline what makes the game good or bad, and focus on telling you whether or not it is worth your time as opposed to what button makes you jump.

We use a five-star rating system with intervals of .5. Below is an outline of what each score generally means:


All games that receive this score are standout games in their genre. All players should seek a way to play this game. While the score doesn't equate to perfection, it's the best any game could conceivably do.


These are above-average games that most players should consider purchasing. Nearly everyone will enjoy the game and given the proper audience, some may even love these games.


This is our middle-of-the-road ranking. Titles that receive three stars may not make a strong impression on the reviewer in either direction. These games may have some faults and some strong points but they average out to be a modest title that is at least worthy of rental for most.


Games that are awarded two stars are below average titles. Good ideas may be present, but execution is poor and many issues hinder the experience.


Though functional, a game that receives this score has major issues. There are little to no redeeming qualities and should be avoided by nearly all players.


A game that gets this score is fundamentally broken and should be avoided by everyone.


 

Comments

Our Take

Chris Mabrey Staff Alumnus

08/22/2010 at 03:11 AM

Jason R. co-wrote this article. If you've got any problems here, feel free to blame Jason for them.

Our Take

Nick DiMola Director

08/25/2010 at 10:49 AM

I probably won't write a true full review on it, but Chris and Jason gave me the comparable DSi case. In short, I hate it.

It's bulky, ugly and it completely ruins the sleek form factor of the DSi for me. I'm not quite sure why someone would want to stick the thing in such a casing.

Honestly, while you are playing the system, there isn't a ton of concern with dropping it, and wear on the external case is unlikely. The most logical reason to have such a casing is for safe storage when not playing the system. In my opinion, if you want something to protect your DS system, grab a closed case for storage when you aren't playing your system.

This will eliminate any possible issues with dropping or pressure, and will keep the system looking nice. You can avoid the hideous casing the Catalyst provides, as well as the faux leather that will undoubtedly degrade over time.

Our Take

Jason Ross Senior Editor

08/25/2010 at 11:58 AM

See, this is a case where I disagree a little with Nick. I think the color and feel of the case can match up pretty well with some DSi or DSi XLs out there, and that while it might not be worth the $30 price tag, it merits consideration for those who think the coloring choice fit themselves and their DSis.

Lukasz Balicki Staff Alumnus

08/25/2010 at 04:45 PM

I always thought that a case is redundant on any DS considering that Nintendo build their systems like tanks and the clamshell design is very sturdy. Now the PSP on the other hand, that would be a more likely candidate for a case due to the exposed screen and its more prone to a lot of damage if its dropped.

Kathrine Theidy Staff Alumnus

08/25/2010 at 07:36 PM

I'd rather someone create a shell that gives the DS grips/handles which make it as comfortable as a controller. The DS is exponentially awkward to hold.

Kathrine Theidy Staff Alumnus

08/25/2010 at 07:36 PM

I'd rather someone create a shell that gives the DS grips/handles which make it as comfortable as a controller. The DS is exponentially awkward to hold.

Jason Ross Senior Editor

08/25/2010 at 07:40 PM

My biggest problem with the DS is that the Dpad really hurts my thumb over long periods of play.

Log in to your PixlBit account in the bar above or join the site to leave a comment.