The 3DS is the next version of the Nintendo DS that will be released on March 27th 2011. This hand-held lets the player experience 3D on the go. The 3DS can also play previous forms of DS games and the good ole classic Game Boy Advance games.
There isn’t too much to say about the physicality of the system outside of the analog nub. It’s larger and moves further than the PSP equivalent, and it’s a very welcome inclusion in the 3DS control scheme. Overall the hardware seems very solid and premium. The three VGA cameras ,one in the front, two in the back, all work about as well as you’d expect a VGA camera to perform, though you will appreciate the snappy shutter speed in the 3D photo-taking app. The 3DS can also take pictures in 3D.
Viewers are able to adjust the “amount” of 3D by using a 3D slider. Don’t like 3D? Have only one eye and can’t see in 3D? You’re able to turn off the 3D effects by turning the slider all the way down, so it becomes a regular old game.
A potential problem was brought up after sampling the system after a long period of time. The effects of the 3D are apparent when the player watches the screen from the center, with the system held roughly 2 feet from his/her eyes. If it’s held in another way, the player won’t be able to view to 3D. Considering that the 3DS will use a motion sensor and a gyroscope to play a number of games, it’s going to be difficult to view the screens and the 3D images playing with these methods.
Overall, the 3DS is an amazing piece of hardware, and everyone should have the opportunity to try it to be amazed with how well the technology works. Never before has there been a handheld that can display 3D this well without the need for glasses. Be sure to pre-order yours now!