Nintendo DS Lite is just right

USA Today (Society for the Advancement of Education), Nov, 2006

When you ask kids what's at the top of their holiday wish list, you inevitably get the same answer: video games. Funny thing is, since Nintendo of America, Redmond, Wash., introduced its DS Lite, just as often we'll hear that very response from adults as well.

The Nintendo DS Lite has changed the way we play portable video games. It has two ultra-bright LCD screens that deliver impressive 3D rendered graphics, with the lower one offering touch-screen capabilities so players can navigate the games or access menus with a stylus or fingertip. There also is a microphone port which allows the user to speak to the games. With rich stereo sound, DS greatly has expanded the use of voices and music.

You can connect with a local wireless network of up to 16 players. It also has PictoChat, a built-in chat room that allows you to send and receive wireless messages and pictures to other DS users within your range. With Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection--a free service--you can play games over the Internet using your DS and a WFC compatible game.

Of course, the best thing about the DS is the whole new level of games developed for this advanced technology. One of our favorites is Big Brain Academy. After testing your ability to Think, Analyze, Memorize, Compute, and Identify, the Professor then calculates the weight of your brain in grams, gives you a letter grade (suffice it to say we were humbled on our first few attempts), and finally determines your brain type. It lets you know where you performed best and suggests areas to take practice drills. After many such drills, we were able to improve our scores considerably. Similarly, Brain Age is another game designed to exercise the mind, prompting you to solve simple math equations quickly and read aloud. These exercises are designed to keep the mind fresh. An easy-to-use Sudoku game also is included.

Nintendogs is an interactive experience centered on puppies. You start by selecting your pet from a kennel and giving it a name. The puppy will learn its name when you speak into the microphone. Dogs also can be called by whistling into the microphone or tapping on the screen with the stylus. You can teach them tricks, enter contests, and go on outings. These virtual pets are great fun and start to feel like members of the family.

In New Super Mario Bros., Mario once again must rescue Princess Peach, this time from an unknown kidnapper as he races through raging volcanoes, tropical islands, and snowcapped peaks--we really enjoy Mega and Mini Mario. In addition, there are specially designed levels and mini-games for wireless play. Mario Kart DS has over 30 courses, including new tracks and battle arenas, as well as old favorites from earlier versions. You can play solo, race over the Internet with the WFC, or play up to eight players using local wireless.

The Nintendo DS Lite includes a rechargeable battery, AC adapter, and an extra stylus. For more information on the DS and its games and accessories, visit www.nintendo.com.

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