The BEST handheld console to date! (Nintendo DS Lite)

Member Name: princesslilo

Product:	Nintendo DS Lite
Date:	20/10/09 (25 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: hours of gameplay, great for all ages

Disadvantages: Not a great place for a microphone

The original Nintendo Gameboy was released in 1989 and proved to be a bit hit so it is no wonder why Nintendo continued with the development of this cute handheld console to the Gameboy Pocket, Gameboy Colour, Advance, SP, DS and then the DS Lite.

The Nintendo DS (Dual Screen) Lite was originally released in three colours in 2006 - glossy black, white or baby pink. They sold out very quickly and were out of stock both online and in stores across the country with a huge waiting list due to high demand.

One problem I have always had with computer console manufacturers is the fact that they will release the console and then a year down the line will work on making it smaller or re-leasing it in a variety of colours. Nintendo are one of these manufacturers. As mentioned above they originally released the DS in three colours, but now there are a whole range of them. It would just be nice to be able to have a choice from the beginning as it just makes you want to buy one of the new ones when the only difference if the colour.

The DS is a small console that flips open and has two backlit screens - the bottom one is your touch screen that you use your stylus to control your characters or move and make selections in your chosen game. The top one is just a visual and is used in all games. On the back of the console are two cartridge slots - the one that is blocked up is for use with Gameboy Advance Games and the top is for the DS games which is springloaded. The buttons are the same as a majority of the previous Gameboys - a directional arrow controller on your left and four buttons on the right with a start and select button. There are also two buttons also known as shoulder buttons. Also to the left of the underneath of the console is where your stylus is stored. You are supplied with two of these when you purchase the console new but it is easy to buy replacements should you manage to loose both of these.

The microphone has been moved from it's original position on the original DS. I think this was a mistake. For example: in the game Wario Ware - this game involves blowing into the Microphone which can end in you spitting all over the screen which just isn't pretty! The on/off switch has also been changed from the previous DS which is a good thing as the old one was easy to turn off my mistake in the middle of gameplay.

The DS Lite also boasts a rechargeable battery that is charged using the supplied charger and this plugs into the back of the console.

Many games offer multiplayer gameplay, some of which only need one cartridge which is a bonus. This includes the superb Mario Kart DS.

The range and genre of games are endless, with games that help to keep your mind active, racing, puzzle games, even games that talk you through recipes to enable you to cook delicious meals.

This little console has won the hearts of both young and old and is going to be a sure favourite for many years to come.

Summary: Worth so much more than the 5 star rating I am giving!