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In 2005, with fantastic 3D graphics and a stack of innovative new features, the Nintendo DS started a revolution in portable gaming. An ever-growing selection of awesome new titles plus full compatibility with the gigantic back catalogue of Game Boy Advance games gives you access to an incomparable range of gaming greats.
With two LCD screens, the DS offers a groundbreaking approach to gaming. Each 3-inch screen is capable of producing true 3D graphics; the DS has the power to produce even more advanced visuals than the Nintendo 64 could display.
The possibilities are limitless - one screen can be used to show the main action, while another might be used as a map, inventory, or secondary viewpoint - or both screens could theoretically be used simultaneously to depict huge boss characters!
Nintendo DS comes with built-in wireless communication technology which lets it link up to Nintendo´s free online gaming service, Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. This easy to set up service lets you compete with your friends online whenever you like; all that´s needed is a Wi-Fi compatible game like Mario Kart DS or Animal Crossing: Wild World. Players can connect at home through their existing wireless broadband connection, or else take advantage of one of Nintendo's many public Wi-Fi hotspots.
Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection is not only free* and easy, but also safe: you play with people you know by swapping Friend Codes. Plus, new voice chat technology means that in certain games, like Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl, you can even talk to your competitors via the DS microphone. For more details on Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, including info on how you can get connected, visit www.nintendowifi.co.uk.
* Usual broadband line rental costs apply when accessing Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection at home.
The Nintendo DS communication technology allows up to 16 gamers to connect on a local wireless network. The distance within which players can connect with one another ranges from between 30 and 100 feet.
While certain games require each player to own a copy of a game in order to participate in a multiplayer session (i.e. Multi-Card Play), there are many titles that support Single-Card Play. This means that only one player actually needs a copy of the game, whereas up to 15 others (depending on the software) can use the Download Play feature of their Nintendo DS to participate in the game, or even download a demo version of the title.
Wireless technology also enables the Nintendo DS to communicate with the Wii console, for example in the upcoming Pokémon Battle Revolution.
Note: Nintendo DS wireless communication, including PictoChat, is not private and is not monitored by Nintendo. We recommend that you never reveal any personal information or arrange to meet a stranger.
The Nintendo DS combines dual screen action with Touch Screen interaction, providing the player with a unique gaming experience. The system also includes the latest wireless communication technology, allowing gamers to join their friends in multiplayer games, or use the system's embedded PictoChat software to send messages and drawings to each other.
The DS' lower screen utilises Touch Screen technology - the first time such a feature has ever appeared on a handheld system.
With the power of touch you can control the action with your finger, or the DS stylus that's included with every system. Draw pictures or write messages and send them to your friends, control the on-screen action with more finesse than ever before, or navigate menus instantly at the touch of a fingertip. Touch Screen technology means that whether controlling Samus Aran in the latest Metroid title or stroking a dog's tummy in the latest Miyamoto masterpiece, you'll be playing games in a whole new way!
The stylus is stored in the back of the unit, while the Touch Screen features a tough film cover for extra durability.
Nintendo DS packs a microphone port, allowing you to communicate with your friends via Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection in selected games, as well as interact with the game environment in brand-new ways!
Teach your puppy tricks with the sound of your voice in Nintendogs, or blow dust off an object in Hotel Dusk: Room 215 to solve a puzzle. Certain games, like Metroid Prime Hunters and Puzzle League DS even allow you to talk to your friends during a gameplay session over Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, even if they are miles away.
