Computer Times
Editors' Choice
Game Console
Nintendo DS Lite
Reviewed by Angie Kibiloski
The Nintendo DS Lite (Retail $129.99) is the latest handheld game console from Nintendo, the longest-lived company in modern console gaming. Nintendo has come a long way since the first Gameboy handheld system. The graphics are remarkably good for such a small console, and the Dual Screen technology makes the gaming experience unique. The top screen is where most of the action in a game takes place, where you watch your character perform. The bottom screen, the touch screen, is where many of your controls reside, activated by using your stylus to manipulate the sensitive touch screen. The DS Lite is compact and sleek, about the size of a checkbook, and hinges open in a similar manner. The system fits easily in the hands of both kids and adults, and the control buttons are comfortably situated and easy to use. Available in a variety of colors, the DS Lite would be an attractive gift for all ages.
The range of game choices spans all ages as well, so there are plenty of choices for everyone, from kids games, to action games, puzzles, strategy, and more. Many of the games have a Wi-Fi feature, where you can connect up to four Nintendo DS Lite systems, within proximity to each other, for multi-player fun. Some games can also be connected through the Internet to play with gamers all over the world. Also, you can chat to the other players close to you with the PictoChat feature, allowing you to not only share words, but also graphics that you have drawn as well. The Nintendo DS Lite also allows you to play your old Gameboy Advance games, so you can progress to the newer system, while still enjoying your older favorite titles.
You can find a wide variety of accessories for the DS Lite, to help you get the most out of your system. These items include stylish carrying cases, ear phones, traveling battery chargers, skins to change the look of your console, scratch protectors for both screens, and cases to store all of the little game cartridges, everything you could need for a great handheld experience. The Nintendo DS Lite is attractive, exciting, innovative, and hours of fun in the palm of your hand. Buy it as a gift for a loved one, or keep it for yourself. With such a reasonable price tag, there really is no reason not to get one.