The Nintendo 3DS: More than just a gimmick

Nintendo has once again made their mark in the portable console market. They defined what a portable console should be with the Nintendo DS and have topped it with the Nintendo 3DS. The portable console works similar to the DS and GameCube.

To play a game on the console, insert a game cartilage into the slot and tap the game inserted on the home-screen. One of the features of the 3DS is the option for 3D is promised by Nintendo. To activate the 3D feature, there is a slot to the left of the top screen of the DS. Slide it up to activate the 3D feature. While it does come of as a gimmick, it can heighten a game experience and make the graphics impressive. The 3DS’ main strength is the massive update to the DS layout introduced my the DSI. The menu features several apps including a virtual console introduced by the Nintendo Wii to purchase retro games and previews of 3Ds games. It also allows for Nintendo DS games to be played on the console.

Unfortunately, this has the side effect of making the customers former DS useless. In terms of criticism, the 3DS is expensive for at a whomping 250 dollars when released and feels like a burden just to play some games on a more advanced console. Games that I recommend for the 3DS include Super Mario 3D Land, The remakes of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and Majora’s Mask, Mario Kart 7, and Super Smash Bros. The 3Ds comes in a variety of colors from red to blue and if you want your screen to be larger you can try the Nintendo 3DS XL. I currently have a blue 3DS XL and I highly recommend you play Super Mario 3D Land or Mario Kart 7 as your first title.