Video Game Systems

The latest version the portable system for Nintendo is the Nintendo DS.  The DS stands for Dual Screen.  This hand held system was first introduced in 2004.  It became very popular with in a short period of time.  The DS is a portable system that has two screens, a stylus pen, and the ability to play Game Boy Advance games and Nintendo DS games.

This hand held system is equipped with wireless technology, a microphone, and a touch sensitive screen.  Some say the Nintendo DS has some of the same characteristics as a PDA, but you can also game play on this device.

The price of the Nintendo DS is a bit more expensive than the Game Boy Advance.  It starts out at $149.99, but may a bit lower or higher at certain stores.

The Nintendo DS also comes in a variety of colors to personalize your own system.  Some of the colors it comes in are;

• Onyx
• Coral pink
• White
• Silver
• Platinum

The Nintendo DS includes are number of features that have never been offered in a handheld system before.  With the dual screens running simultaneously they can be used as different points of interest.  For example, one screen might be used for a map while the other screen might be used for your character.  The bottom screen is touch sensitive and can be used with the stylus pen that is included with the system.

The DS comes with two incredibly bright LCD screens and offer the most interesting game play advances ever developed.  Each screen is 3” in diameter and can reproduce a true 3-D view.  The bottom touch sensitive screen features a tougher film cover for durability.

This portable system also comes with WiFi connection.  This will allow you to chat and play with other Nintendo DS owners around the world.  All you need to start playing is the Nintendo DS and a WiFi ready game.  The services are free and there are no subscription fees. With the Nintendo DS being wireless it will allow multiple DS systems to play together with only one game.

You can connect with a local wireless network of up to 16 players.  The wireless range is quite impressive with range between 30 to 100 feet.

The life of the battery is quite longer than other portable systems.  The average hours of game play on a single charge is between 6 to 8 hours.

The graphics are a little better than the Nintendo Game Boy Advance, and are more vibrant and clear.

A wonderful added feature to the Nintendo DS is the built in microphone port.  With the microphone all you need to do is tell your game what to do.  The plug in has raised some possibilities of it serving as some sort of internet phone.  It might eventually be able to offer in game chat features.

The Nintendo DS has awesome sound capabilities that allow for greatly expanded use of voices and music.  You will also get a richer, more immersive game experience.  Stereo speakers allow for virtual surround sound and a plug for headphones.

The most appreciated feature of the Nintendo DS is the separate media port for Game Boy Advance cartridges.  This will allow your child to play all of their favorite Game Boy Advance games in single player mode.

The accessories available for the Nintendo DS are very reasonably prices and help with the gaming experience.

• The Nintendo DS AC adapter comes with the Nintendo DS system, but is also available for purchase if you need a new one.
• Nintendo DS Stylus set is sold is sets of three.  The stylus is designed to fir into the DS system and easily snaps inside a storage slot on the back of the system.
• Nintendo DS Battery- This is a replacement battery for the one included in the DS system.
• Nintendo DS Battery Cover Kit- the Battery cover covers the battery compartment on the back of your Nintendo DS.  This kit comes with the cover, a screw and a small clip which holds the screw to the cover.
• Nintendo DS Wrist Strap- This is a replacement for the wrist strap that came with the original package of the Nintendo DS.  The wrist strap has a small plastic pad attached to it so it can also be used on the touch screen.  This pad is designed for use of games that work better with a sliding type of control.

This chapter wouldn’t be complete without a list on the best games available for the Nintendo DS.  You will need to remember that the Game Boy Advanced games can be played in the DS, but DS games are not compatible with the Game Boy Advance systems.

• Animal Crossing DS- The game offers real time seasons and the ability to share your town with friends.  This game also gives you wireless multiplayer game play.
• New Super Mario Brothers- This game is bringing a new 2D Mario to the table, and for the first time two players will be able to play simultaneously through the wireless DS.
• Nintendogs- This unique game has become a blockbuster hit over night.  It is more like a personal pet than it is a game.  It allows you to take care of virtual puppies that look and sound realistic.
• Shogun Warrior (Real Time Conflict)- This is a real time strategy game that takes place in Japan.  Use the touch screen to direct your troops.
• Age of Empires; The Age of Kings- Allows players to build their empires and can use the touch screen to maneuver your players.
• Mario Kart DS- This is an easy game to learn no matter how inexperienced you are with racing games.  The DS combines wireless gaming, using only one cartridge.  The more players you race against the more competitive it becomes.
• Metroid Prime Hunters- This game came as a demo with the Nintendo DS systems.  You use your stylus to guide Samus through metroid filled levels.
• The Sims 2- The Sims is the most popular game franchise of all time.  It appeals to both men and women with the never ending game play.  Many say this game can become additive.
• Electroplankton- This game doesn’t offer the traditional game play that everyone is used to.  It is more of a content and music creation tool.  This is a game for those who are creative.
• Advance Wars (Dual Strike) - The DS has the ability to handle complex user interface with the touch screen.  This game is sure to evolve with the portable system and the gamers who use portables.

The Nintendo DS has also created a new version called the Nintendo DS Lite.  It basically is the same system with the same type of functions only smaller.  The Lite system is very light and easy to carry in your pocket.

The longevity of the portable systems has proven to be a great asset for gamers young and old.  With the systems getting smaller and more function able who knows what lies ahead for them.