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Nintendo DS

The Nintendo DS is the latest in Nintendo's range of hand held gaming consoles.

Released in 2004, the DS (Dual Screen) is the next step on from the ever popular Game Boy range. As a mark of loyalty to existing customers, Nintendo have included backwards compatibility with Game Boy Advance games, allowing you to play your old Game Boy Advance games on the new Nintendo DS console.

Weighing in at just over 250 grams, the Nintendo DS will fit conveniently into your bag or rucksack when not in use. In addition to its portability, the other advantages of the Nintendo DS include wireless network gaming and touch screen technology.

The Nintendo DS is available in both its original titanium colour scheme or in an Electric Blue shade, released in June of 2005.

Nintendo DS Lite

On the 23rd of June 2006 the latest version of the DS, the Nintendo DS Lite, will be released in Europe. The Lite will be lighter and smaller than the current model with a brighter screen. It will be available in two colours, Gloss Black and White. The DS Lite will be backwards compatible with all Nintendo DS games.

Features of the Nintendo DS include:

• Dual Screens:

Each of the Nintendo DS's two 3-inch screens produces a true 3D view and is designed to expand the way with which games are played. For example a multi player wireless game could be played on one screen with text messages from other gamers being sent to you on the other. The screens are both backlit with a 256 x 192 resolution and boast 260,000 colours.

• Touch Screen Technology:

Simply by touching the screen with a fingertip or stylus, you can navigate menus and inventory items, almost in the style of a PDA. The stylus is included with the console and fits onto the side when not in use (again, like a PDA).

• Built in Microphone:

The Nintendo DS's built-in micropohone allows the ability to ‘Talk' and voice activate games (providing the game has this feature). It also enables you to communicate over the wireless network whilst gaming with others.

• Wireless Network:

This feature means that you can connect to a local wireless network and play Nintendo DS games with up to 16 players. Signal range can be from 30 to 100 feet and with some games only a single DS game card is required. Nintendo hope to include this feature in more games in the future.

• Stereo Sound:

The Nintendo DS is equipped with built-in stereo speakers that simulate surround sound and the console has a socket for headphone use. Audio clues are placed in the stereo field to give you advanced warning of dangers etc. during play, giving you a more immersive gaming experience. For example, the virtual surround sound can give the effect of doors closing behind you.

• Backwards Compatibility:

A separate media port on the console allows you to plug in Game Boy Advance cartridges. These can then be played in single player mode.

• Nintendo DS Wrist Strap:

The Nintendo DS console comes with a wrist strap that has a small plastic pad attached for use on the touch screen. The pad is designed for games that require a sliding type of control, like the Super Mario DS and the included demo version of Metroid Prime: Hunters, for example.

• Extensive Choice of Games:

There is a wide range of Nintendo DS games available on the market, so you should be able to find something to suit you whatever your tastes. Games for the Nintendo DS include:

• Action games (like Ultimate Spiderman and Peter Jackson's King Kong)

• Activity games (like Sega Casino)

• Platform games (like Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire)

• Puzzle games (like Bomberman DS)

• Racing games (like Mario Kart DS and Need for Speed Most Wanted)

• Role-playing and simulation games (like Zoo Tycoon and The Sims 2).

To find out more about the types of games you can play on the Nintendo DS, visit our Games section.

To find some great deals on Nintendo DS game consoles and details of where you can buy a Nintendo DS, visit our Top Sites section.

You can also find more about the accessories available for your Nintendo DS console in our Accessories section.