The DS, being the first step in Nintendo's latest generation of portable consoles, is characterized by several unique features that set it apart from other previous mobile gaming devices, as well as current competition. Disappointingly, the DS is a bit heavy and not as portable as one would expect. The DS has a spring loaded closure mechanism which upon opening reveals the control keys and dual 3.5 inch 256 x 192 backlit LCD screens, which are one of the key unique features of the DS. They provide bright, vivid graphics which are however inferior to the graphic quality of Sony's PSP. Despite this drawback, the dual displays offer one-of-a-kind functionality, as the bottom display is also a touch screen useable either with the included pla...
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The DS, being the first step in Nintendo's latest generation of portable consoles, is characterized by several unique features that set it apart from other previous mobile gaming devices, as well as current competition. Disappointingly, the DS is a bit heavy and not as portable as one would expect. The DS has a spring loaded closure mechanism which upon opening reveals the control keys and dual 3.5 inch 256 x 192 backlit LCD screens, which are one of the key unique features of the DS. They provide bright, vivid graphics which are however inferior to the graphic quality of Sony's PSP. Despite this drawback, the dual displays offer one-of-a-kind functionality, as the bottom display is also a touch screen useable either with the included plastic stylus or finger strap. This unique design provides an unparalleled play and work experience. If you do not wish to use the built in speakers the DS has a PL headphone jack to which you can connect a headset of your choice. Games are played from cartridge-based media, and aside from DS game cartridges there is also support for older Gameboy Advanced game cartridges, but Gameboy/Gameboy Color games are not supported. The DS also has wireless Wi-Fi connectivity useful for multiplayer games with other DS users. Overall, the DS offers an innovative use experience only hindered by its bulky hefty design. With the newer Nintendo DS Lite Nintendo solves many problems of the original DS, thus making it a better choice. Minimize
Reviewed by: Tom Hen on 11/10/07
Wireless Connectivity
Vivid Back-Lit Displays
Long Battery Life
Unique Features
Hefty Bulky Design
Low Resolution Display
Display Falters at Some View Angles
Limited Support for Older Content
Newer Superior Model Available
The verdict:An excellent console, but the DS Lite is the better version.
Wireless Connectivity
Hefty Bulky Design
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