Finding the Right Nintendo DS For You

The Nintendo 3DS marks the arrival of the fifth version of the Nintendo DS. More models, of course, means more choices. While there have been releases in different colors and special bundles made available, (such as the DS Lite Mario Edition), here is a rundown of the main features on the core models.

Nintendo DS

The original Nintendo DS was released in time for the holidays in late 2004. A successor to the Game Boy Advance, the DS includes a GBA slot to play existing games, but also introduces a new format: the Nintendo DS Game Card. Like the GBA SP, the DS kept the clamshell case and also includes two 3-inch TFT screens, one of which supports touch input. Like every model that followed, the original DS introduced wireless Internet connectivity. This original DS model was retired as newer models were introduced.

Nintendo DS Lite

The Nintendo DS Lite was the second generation DS handheld to hit retail shelves (2006), and it is likely the most popular within the DS family. The DS Lite essentially redesigned the DS with a slew of changes that include improved battery life, a smaller and sleeker form factor, and a slightly larger screen (3.12 inch) with varying brightness levels. The DS Lite also includes the backwards capability to play Game Boy Advance games.

Nintendo DSi

The DSi is for the most part very similar to the DS Lite in design. Changes include the removal of the Game Boy Advance game slot, and the addition of a SD slot for storage of downloadable content from the DSi Store. This model also introduced the inclusion of both a front and back facing camera. While the cameras aren't essential for game play, they give kids the ability to take and save pictures..

Nintendo DSi XL

Nintendo's DSi XL arrived in 2009. While the device remained similar in style to its predecessor, it was much larger in size. The actual pen sized stylus does not conveniently slide into the unit like previous models, nor does the gaming device itself easily slide into a shirt pocket. In addition to the larger screen, the DSi XL is also improved upon with a slightly faster processor.

Nintendo 3DS

The latest handheld from Nintendo, the 3DS, became available in 2011. Offering 3D gaming that does not require the use of any special 3D glasses, the 3DS also allows 2D play of any offered title. This is due to an intensity slider found on the device that allows for depth perception to be adjusted, or completely turned off. The portable's included internal motion and gyro sensors also add a new level of game play, allowing tilt and movement control to titles that support motion play. When play isn't desired, two external cameras can be used in stereo effect to create and save 3D photographs. The 3DS also includes a 2GB SD card, a charging cradle and is backwards compatible with DS and DSi titles.