Top 5 Nintendo DS Lite Accessories

I'll admit it: I'm in love with my Nintendo DS Lite. The dual screens, the touch screen technology, the innovative gameplay -- all features that urge me to drop dollar after dollar on this portable gaming system.

Luckily, Nintendo and a host of second party companies have come out with a wide variety of accessories for people like me. If you or someone you know have a Nintendo DS Lite, I guarantee they will love at least one of my favorite five accessories.

1. Hori DS Lite Screen Protectors (around $7)

Screen protectors are vital for getting the longest use out of your DS Lite touch screen. They protect against both light wear-and-tear and deep scratches. Hori screen protectors have long been acknowledged as the best brand for DS Lites, as they are relatively easy to apply, and can be removed and re-applied several times without leaving a sticky residue.

Originally, Hori screen protectors were only available as imports, and came with Japanese-language instructions that made application confusing for American customers. Recently, an English-language edition has become available, making these excellent screen protectors more accessible to American gamers.

To apply, match the correct protector to each of the two screens, then carefully apply using a credit card to force out any air bubbles. Hori screen protectors also come with a soft, cleaning cloth to buff away unwanted smudges on your DS Lite screen.

2. Hori Multi-Pouch Soft Case for the DS Lite (around $15)

Although there are many all-in-one cases available on the market, this is by far my favorite. Although it is not a hard case, its soft, felt interior and liberal padding provide more than enough protection for your beloved DS Lite.

The zippered outside pouch can be opened to reveal fitted pockets for two games and an extra stylus, and a net pouch for accessories or extra game cartridges. This case also comes with a removable metal clip for attaching your DS to your belt loop or backpack.

The Multi-Pouch case isn't just functional - it's stylish too. There are multiple clips and zippers on the pouch for attaching your own keychains or charms to personalize the look of your case. This case also comes in a rainbow of colors that match the DS Lites - anything from onyx black, to coral pink, to imported Japanese DS Lite colors, like ice blue.

3. DS Lite Magnet Stand (around $12)

This DS Lite Magnet Stand has enjoyed phenomenal success in Japan, where interactive cookbooks for the DS are very popular. This stand was originally designed to be placed on the fridge, so a gamer chef can refer to a favorite recipe without dirtying the DS Lite displaying it.

Even if you don't own a single cookbook title, this stand is great for everyday play. Almost any hardcore DS Lite gamer has experienced "Phoenix Wright or Trauma Center Neck," a painful malady brought on by hunching over the touch screen for too long. The magnet stand can be attached to any metal surface, and adjusted so the touch screen is facing you head-on. This is a great gift for anyone addicted to Touch Generation DS Lite games.

4. DS Original/Lite Movie and Media Player (around $30)

Many gamers argue that the beauty of the DS Lite comes from its simplicity; unlike the PSP, the DS Lite was designed primarily to support games and nothing else. Although this portable system has become multi-functional with the new Opera web browser cartridge, the DS Lite has no native support for playing movies and music.

For those dead-set on the PSP experience with a DS Lite, however, the DS Lite Movie and Media Player adds movie and music playing functionality to your favorite Nintendo system. Although the sound and video quality is not quite as good as with a PSP, this movie and music watching playing is far less expensive.

5. DS Lite Gold-Plated Stylus (around $20)

Let everyone know how much you love your DS with this 18K gold-plated stylus. Nothing says "bling bling" quite like the shine and weight of real gold. Obviously, this stylus is a pure vanity purchase, but will make a splash as a gift for the DS Lite player who wants to show off his or her luxurious side.

To Buy Featured Accessories Online:

Hori Screen Protectors

Hori Multi-Pouch Case (in black)

Magnet Stand

Movie and Media Player

18K Gold-Plated Stylus