Whether you are an extreme gamer or just enjoy playing “Angry Birds” while you’re sitting in a waiting room for a doctor’s appointment, you probably agree that video games are A) fun, and B) good for passing the time. The new Nintendo 3DS is all of the above.
With all of the video gaming options out there (XBOX 360, Playstation 3, Nintendo Wii, PSP, iPad), why go with a Nintendo 3DS? Well, the 3DS is unique in that it delivers 3-D gameplay without the need for the annoying glasses. The 3DS looks as if it could be the Nintendo DS’ twin, only this version comes with a widescreen that dis-plays somewhat customizable 3-D images. There is a bar on the side that allows you to set the depth of 3-D displayed. This can be minimized all the way down to 2D.
Don’t expect to see 3-D like in “Avatar,” but do expect to be impressed and satisfied with the quality. However, there are more features that make this little device the perfect time-waster. First of all, the 3DS is backward compatible, which means that you can go ahead and play games you bought on your Nintendo DS. You can also use Wi-Fi to go online, chat with your friends, and unlock more game features.
There are two cameras on the front of the 3DS, the 3DS to take and share 3-D pictures. The quality of the images is in not the greatest but they’ll be in 3-D. You can also create Mii avatars like on the Nintendo Wii. This time, however, you can take a picture of you or a friend and their image will be converted into Mii format, which you can customize any way you want. The system comes with 2GB internal flash memory but also provides a slot for an SD card.
The 3DS also comes loaded with extras and built-in software like Mii Plaza and Face Raiders to entertain you even before you buy your first game. There is also a built-in motion sensor and gyro sensor which allow games to react to tilt and motion.
The 3DS is available in Aqua Blue and Cosmo Black for $249.99 plus tax. Some of the games available are Pilotwings Resort, Kid Icarus: Uprising, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3-D, Madden NFL Football, Resident Evil: The Mercen-aries 3-D and about 15 other titles.
With its 3-D capability, this handheld console is revolutionary, but most importantly it’s fun.
