The video game terrain has undergone quite a change over the past two decades. These years have seen touchscreen and motion-controlled gaming taking center stage. With innovative offerings such as the Kinect for Xbox 360 and PlayStation Move making big noise, we see Nintendo adding another device that is set to take 3D gaming to new heights. The company discloses that the Nintendo 3DS portable system is scheduled to arrive onto the scene on March 27, 2011.
The latest handheld gaming device features two screens with the bottom one sporting touchscreen attributes while the above one shows 3D visuals without having to pair it with 3D glasses. The lower screen makes use of a telescoping stylus found in the portable model. The console also incorporates a 3D Depth Slider for allowing players to opt for their level of 3D. Besides including the + Control Pad and button controls, this offering comes packed with a Circle Pad which has the ability to turn a full 360 degrees in direction.
It is also embedded with an integrated motion sensor and gyro sensor. The StreetPass feature can exchange game information with any other nearby Nintendo 3DS system while the SpotPass feature connects to compatible public hotspots. There are three cameras integrated into the system, where one points towards the players while the other two face outwards. Gamers can also access the Nintendo eShop via a system update for gaining access to downloadable games like the Nintendo DSiWare and 3DS specific ones.
“Nintendo 3DS is a category of one – the experience simply doesn’t exist anywhere else,” revealed Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime. “You have to see Nintendo 3DS to believe it. And it’s like nothing you’ve ever seen before.”
The 3DS enters with six augmented-reality cards called AR cards. Internet access and couple of wireless functions can be limited through the integrated parental controls. Nintendo DS games can also be played with original 2D visuals on the system. A 2GB SD memory card is fitted into the portable console.
Various games can be utilized with the 3DS during the launch window. These cover Nintendo exclusive titles such as Pilotwings Resort, nintendogs + cats, and Steel Diver. Other games that are currently in the works include The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D, Kid Icarus: Uprising and Star Fox 64 3D. Third-party games include Super Street Fighter IV 3D Edition, Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor Overclocked and Madden NFL Football among others.
The Nintendo 3DS system is slated to arrive with a price tag of $249.99 (approx. Rs. 11,404) in aqua blue and cosmo black.
