Official DS/DSi/DSiXL Thread or how Nintendo is the handheld console king

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Discuss both versions here.

[fearofthesky]

Why o why did I but a white DSi? Can't keep the thing clean even with a shell!

Mario DSL: Do want. Bring it out in DSi mode, and I'm sold.

[incompatible with life]

Finally got a DSi a few weeks ago with Game's offer of $160 after trading two games.
Happy with it so far although admittedly there's not really anything justifying the purchase so far. Still, I am liking the large screen (compared with original DS).

Now I just have to figure out what to do with my old DS now. I could trade it in for a whole $35, keep it or give it away (I would wonder if the paediatrics ward would like it but they have a 360 in every bed so I imagine maybe not...).

Why o why did I but a white DSi? Can't keep the thing clean even with a shell!
That's why I got a silicone case (granted I haven't actually taken it off to see if it's dirty or not)

[Australian Ninja]

Still waiting on my DSi to arrive from ebay. Never owned any DS before, so figured I'd go with this one because the apparently the screen is prettier.

Recommended games to buy anyone? IGNs editor's choice page for the DS is down, and I'm trying to make a big list of games I will potentially buy.

So far I'm definitely buying :

Zelda
New Mario
Professor Layton
Scribblenauts

[Australian Ninja]

Oh, while I'm here - can anyone recommend some good screen protector thingys that would suit the DSi? Any where to buy them from, preferably online.

[/backslash]

Recommended games to buy anyone? IGNs editor's choice page for the DS is down, and I'm trying to make a big list of games I will potentially buy.

So far I'm definitely buying :

Zelda
New Mario
Professor Layton
Scribblenauts
Chrono Trigger!
And Hotel Dusk! :D

[D.C.]

Broken Sword will satisfy any point-and-click adventuring.

If you can still find it, Mario & Lugi is a near forgotten classic too.

[Jickle]

Chrono Trigger, Meteos, Ouendan 2 (import only) and all four Phoenix Wright games should tide you over!

[Sytadel]

I'd never thought about buying a DS/DSi, but I discovered that being able to claim Nintendo DSs is actually one of the tax perks of my job. So I can essentially get a DSi and any games for 30% off.

That said, I never use the train or anything so I'm not sure how much mileage I'd get out of it around the home. I like the idea of being able to pick it up and play it for 20 minutes or so, without having to get too involved or hanging out for save points and whatnot. What sort of games can people reccommend? Is there an Advance Wars DS? (loved that on GBA).

[/backslash]

I'd never thought about buying a DS/DSi, but I discovered that being able to claim Nintendo DSs is actually one of the tax perks of my job. So I can essentially get a DSi and any games for 30% off.

That said, I never use the train or anything so I'm not sure how much mileage I'd get out of it around the home. I like the idea of being able to pick it up and play it for 20 minutes or so, without having to get too involved or hanging out for save points and whatnot. What sort of games can people reccommend? Is there an Advance Wars DS? (loved that on GBA).
There's 2 Advance Wars on DS, Dark Conflict, the more 'mature' game and that other one

Ouendan 1 or 2 is good for pick up & play for 20min since you just have to finish the song before it auto-saves

[Nic Xtreme]

^ Hah, "that other" Advance Wars is IMO the superior one; Advance Wars Dual Strike is completely awesome and features a fantastic, addictive, satisfying Double-Team attack that lasts for two turns and uses both COs powers, complemented by a sexy double-screen-size portrait and rockin' music :D

[incompatible with life]

Oh, while I'm here - can anyone recommend some good screen protector thingys that would suit the DSi? Any where to buy them from, preferably online.

I got a Brando Workshop one and it's been working a treat thus far.
Hori are also usually recommended highly as well.

That said, I never use the train or anything so I'm not sure how much mileage I'd get out of it around the home. I like the idea of being able to pick it up and play it for 20 minutes or so, without having to get too involved or hanging out for save points and whatnot. What sort of games can people reccommend? Is there an Advance Wars DS? (loved that on GBA).
You can always close it and put it in suspend mode which uses minimal power. I seem to recall someone previously being able to keep it suspended for like a week?

^ Hah, "that other" Advance Wars is IMO the superior one; Advance Wars Dual Strike is completely awesome and features a fantastic, addictive, satisfying Double-Team attack that lasts for two turns and uses both COs powers, complemented by a sexy double-screen-size portrait and rockin' music
I preferred Dark Conflict myself. Particularly since it underwent a much needed reboot of the units so that they weren't just adding new more powerful units in the game but giving more variety.

[AranchineD]

Played both to death, almost different games really, but Dual Strike is more fun imo.


Fun not necessarily meaning better, mind you, because I think the actual mechanics of the later game are a bit better, but I just enjoy playing Dual Strike simply because of the atmosphere and feel of the entire game being a lot less 'serious' than Dark Conflict.

Plus the extra gameplay modes like Survival made the game last a bit longer too.

[/backslash]

Fun not necessarily meaning better, mind you, because I think the actual mechanics of the later game are a bit better, but I just enjoy playing Dual Strike simply because of the atmosphere and feel of the entire game being a lot less 'serious' than Dark Conflict.
Yeah, I found Dark Conflict too serious as well, doesn't help that the script reminds me of Street Fighter Legend of Chun Li where its attempting to be serious but ultimately fails. Nice battles but I never got that addicted, Dual Strike is the better option and has everything that you love

^ Hah, "that other" Advance Wars
I actually thought it was called Advance Wars DS, now I know why :p

[Sytadel]

Sounds like the only sensible decision is to buy both :P.

Also: DS or DSi. Go.

[AranchineD]

Well, do you intend to use the camera or waste your money buying little mini-games off the DSi online service, and do you want to continue to play GBA games on your DS?

[Sytadel]

Well, do you intend to use the camera or waste your money buying little mini-games off the DSi online service, and do you want to continue to play GBA games on your DS?

DSi can't play GBA games? Shit, DS it is.

[igotnewsuper8systemWRONG!]

I'd go with a DSi, just incase we start seeing some quality content in the Store.

[AranchineD]

DSi is more expensive than a DSLite as well, which I don't think is really fair.

[igotnewsuper8systemWRONG!]

As unfair as it may be it makes sense business wise

[fearofthesky]

Its really the little things that make me love my DSi.

The interface is top notch. You can use the camera to take snaps and have them dispalayed on the top screen when you turn it on. I took snaps of my friends playing Rock Band, and now I chuckle whenever I turn it on. You can also change game cards without swiching the system off.

The camera editing/filtering is good for a laugh, but is more of a novelty then anything else. I mucked around with the music player yesterday. You put AAC files on a SD card (MP3 is not supported) and you can tool around with sound effects, and sound filters. Again more a novelty than anything. The sound, even with good headphones, is still way too quiet to use as a dedicated music player, which for me is really disapointing. I likle the idea of having a gig or two of music to change things up when I get frustrated with a game, but yeah, just way too quiet.

The Dsi browser is slow, and can't handle high memory pages. I cannot load Facebook, or My eBay, but Hyper works well! :D Still may be useful on the go in the city, with wireless hotspots and what have you.

The DSiWare store is filling up nicely now, but there still is not a heck of a lot that interests me. Picopict is pretty cool, I can recomend that one, mostly because of the old school Nintendo flavour to the puzzle gameplay.

The screens are much nicer really, and you now have 5 brightness settings, which can be adjusted on the fly by holding select and using the volume buttons. The brightest one is fantastic, but will murder your battery.

As for games, I recomend Lock's Quest (fort defence type of game with awesome touch screen interface), Grand Theft Auto Chinatown Wars (Playable and funny, despite finicky on foot controls), Final Fantasy Tactics A2 (Micromanagement required, but addictive), Lunar Knights (Oft-overlooked isometric action game, with many grat innovations) and WarioWare: Touched! (Short and simple, but so impossibly deranged, I just love it!).

Also, both Advance Wars, Final Fantasy IV, Meteos (NOT the Disney version!) Trauma Center: New Blood...

Wow, I just typed a lot...

[/backslash]

Also: DS or DSi. Go.
DSi

+ Bigger screen
+ Louder sound & better quality
+ Power button is easy switch on or 'reset' whilst playing games
+ Better Dpad

- Prone to collecting dust, bits of dirt etc
- No GBA slot (which also removes all the addons as well)
- Texture is rough, easier to hold but more uncomfortable imo
- The camera is nothing but a gimmick that you'll get sick of within 5min

DS Lite

+ GBA slot and support for addons
+ Attractive iPod design (the DSi has no logo on the front, wtf?)
+ More comfortable to hold imo

- Poor sound quality and doesn't go up loud enough for use in public without headphones

[fearofthesky]

DSi

+ Bigger screen
+ Louder sound & better quality
+ Power button is easy switch on or 'reset' whilst playing games
+ Better Dpad

- Prone to collecting dust, bits of dirt etc
- No GBA slot (which also removes all the addons as well)
- Texture is rough, easier to hold but more uncomfortable imo
- The camera is nothing but a gimmick that you'll get sick of within 5min

DS Lite

+ GBA slot and support for addons
+ Attractive iPod design (the DSi has no logo on the front, wtf?)
+ More comfortable to hold imo

- Poor sound quality and doesn't go up loud enough for use in public without headphones

May I add...

DSi

Better feel to its build quality. Just feels a fair bit more solid when operning/closing. I personallt love the matte texture, its sensual, but gets bloody dirty. Get a black one!

DSL

Hinge broke on mine, started minor, then beccame totally busted. I niver dropped it or anything, just felt it crack when I opened it one day. Apparently this is a common problem. It had a glossy finish rather than matte, the black one is a fingerprint magnet!

IMO, of course.

[Sytadel]

Pretty subtle differences. What's the prognosis for DSi content in the store? What are the odds I'll pick up a DS and kick myself for missing out on the option to get store content?

[/backslash]

Pretty subtle differences. What's the prognosis for DSi content in the store? What are the odds I'll pick up a DS and kick myself for missing out on the option to get store content?
Impossible to say given its current status, so far I haven't found any content that's worth having. There's some nice mini-games but nothing screaming "must have"

Without the bigger screen and better&louder speakers I probably wouldn't have bothered with the DSi had I not traded my old one + 2 old DS games to get it for $129

[incompatible with life]

Pretty subtle differences. What's the prognosis for DSi content in the store? What are the odds I'll pick up a DS and kick myself for missing out on the option to get store content?
Last I heard Nintendo weren't quite emphasising the service for downloadable games but random non-gaming stuff. But I think there's potential and we could see better stuff in the future.

Perhaps I underestimate it, but does anyone really use the gba slot on such a regular basis that it's really a necesscity? I can't imagine rockband on the DS would be that good, and I can't think of too many gba games I'd still want to play.

[Australian Ninja]

DSi

+ Bigger screen
+ Louder sound & better quality
+ Power button is easy switch on or 'reset' whilst playing games
+ Better Dpad

- Prone to collecting dust, bits of dirt etc
- No GBA slot (which also removes all the addons as well)
- Texture is rough, easier to hold but more uncomfortable imo
- The camera is nothing but a gimmick that you'll get sick of within 5min

DS Lite

+ GBA slot and support for addons
+ Attractive iPod design (the DSi has no logo on the front, wtf?)
+ More comfortable to hold imo

- Poor sound quality and doesn't go up loud enough for use in public without headphones


And I'll add...

DSi

- Stupidly small face buttons (a,b,x,y)
- That are cramped too close together

I thought the buttons on my GBA SP were tiny enough, but no, Nintendo has to continue with their small buttons fetish. I've heard all sorts of reasons why they supposedly make such small buttons, but no controller / portable gaming device needs such foolishly tiny buttons as the DSi has (not unless it's a mobile phone or PDA)

If you have large hands, then it means you more hand cramps and tend to leave portables in the closet and go back to console games.
I'm sure if the buttons were like slightly larger, it would not overly affect people with smaller hands in any negative way.

[Nic Xtreme]

RIZ-ZOAWD is getting localised! Huzzah! (http://www.aussie-nintendo.com/?pageid=article&t=18241)

[Australian Ninja]

Okay, so I'm looking at DS games on ebay.au and ebay.com Obviously the american prices kick the ass of our stupid full price retail DS games. And with currency being for favourable at the moment, it's an ideal time for me to start my collection of DS games.

Everything I've read says the DS is region free (like the various gameboys that came before it)

My question is, has anyone run into any issues playing Japanese of American DS games on a PAL DS unit?
Are there any game that do not run due to firmware bullshit or anything like that?

(Not including things that use GBA slot accessories or things like Guitar Hero DS obviously, just regular games from foreign territories)

"The Nintendo DS is region free in the sense that any console will run a Nintendo DS game purchased anywhere in the world; however, the Chinese version games can only be played on the Chinese iQue DS, whose larger firmware chip contains the required Chinese character glyph images. Although Nintendo DS of other regions cannot play the Chinese games, iQue DS can play games of other regions." [pasted from wiki]

My post may seem redundant, but every time I hear "region free" there seem to be exceptions, so far I've seen info in wiki (above) but nothing relating to any other problems.

I'm intending to buy most of DS games for my DSi from america, so if you know of ANY problems running them on a PAL DS then speak up and save me money.

[AranchineD]

No, you shouldn't have any problems playing overseas games, the only issues with regions and that have to do with the DSi.

[Nic Xtreme]

Okay, so I'm looking at DS games on ebay.au and ebay.com Obviously the american prices kick the ass of our stupid full price retail DS games. And with currency being for favourable at the moment, it's an ideal time for me to start my collection of DS games.

Everything I've read says the DS is region free (like the various gameboys that came before it)

My question is, has anyone run into any issues playing Japanese of American DS games on a PAL DS unit?
Are there any game that do not run due to firmware bullshit or anything like that?

(Not including things that use GBA slot accessories or things like Guitar Hero DS obviously, just regular games from foreign territories)

eBay probably isn't place to get DS games from, especially internationally! Fakes are everywhere on eBay, and that is one of the reasons you get them so cheaply! Maybe try some other import sites from around the world? CDUniverse, Play-Asia, BlahDVD, 365games, and the like!

[incompatible with life]

My question is, has anyone run into any issues playing Japanese of American DS games on a PAL DS unit?
Are there any game that do not run due to firmware bullshit or anything like that?
For what it's worth I got Daigaso Band Brothers and Ouedan 2 and it works fine.
AFAIK it's only the DSi games (ie. DSi Ware and the inevitable DSi-only games) that could potentially be region locked.

Otherwise, you could also consider buying from the canadians. From memory their prices are similar to US but have a much better conversion rate.

[Australian Ninja]

eBay probably isn't place to get DS games from, especially internationally! Fakes are everywhere on eBay, and that is one of the reasons you get them so cheaply! Maybe try some other import sites from around the world? CDUniverse, Play-Asia, BlahDVD, 365games, and the like!

Thanks for the tip, I've read some of the guides like this one

http://reviews.ebay.com.au/Pirated-Nintendo-DS-Games-on-eBay-How-to-spot-them_W0QQugidZ10000000003403663 (very useful guide)
and others from this page:
http://search.reviews.ebay.com.au/ws/UCSearch?satitle=fake+games

As a rule, I would almost NEVER buy GBA / DS games from China, because ... duh... you know the answer. I'm only intending to buy ORIGINAL DS games from america, and usually it's not too hard to find out more from a seller by asking them questions (dodgy people often give dodgy answers, no surprises there) and by checking out what else they have for sale.

The most obvious thing I've noticed it when you search for a game, let's say "the world ends with you" or whatever, and everyone has it for US$40-60 and then some sellers will have it for US$12, and they have multiple copies etc.

Obviously it can be hard, but I tend to buy from "ebay stores", and check out their other items, and read a fair bit of their feedback.

Anyhow, I'm going to read up some more on spotting DS fakes, and if other people have trusted sites that sell USA DS games (or any foreign games that have english options) that are cheaper than OZ retail $, then please recommend them. I've spotted some good DS deals on Play Asia, but I'm not going to play a game in Japanese (unless it's some action game txt does not matter).

*Anyhow, thanks for reminding me about fakes on ebay, I'm very forgetful and I DO want to avoid buying swashbuckling DS games with parrots and peg-legs attached.

This guide is good for DS fakes, but hell there is no guarantees with ebay....
http://reviews.ebay.com.au/Pirated-Nintendo-DS-Games-on-eBay-How-to-spot-them_W0QQugidZ10000000003403663

[AyatollaofRocknRolla]

I wouldn't bother with ebay. You can get DS games from sites like dvdboxoffice for around $50 Aus including shipping. I get most of my games from there and they all work on a PAL DS system.

[Australian Ninja]

I'll check that one out. I certainly prefer to buy from reliable stores in oz (and around the world) but can't resist bargains. Bought Super mario world (GBA) for $15 this week, original cart - not a fake.

Today I picked up some bargains at EB games
Drawn to Life, Project Rub, Another Code and Elite Beat Agents.

So far (while my DS is still charging) I've made several characters, but my favourite is Mr Sparkle. I'm going to edit the floating head later so that it looks like he is on the pink box of dishwashing detergent.

I also made a homer head on a spring coming out of a box. It looks pretty damn strange as a character when the box starts walking (by splitting in half for the leg animation):)

EDIT: Browsed away at that site, I see they have a new Professor Layton and Chrono Trigger for around $50 each, thanks for the recommendation, you just wasted more of my money! (well those two will have to wait until at least next pay after the splurge on 6 Ds games this week).

[Australian Ninja]

Browsing away at dvdboxoffice I noticed a DS game called "fishing tycoon", or maybe it was "fish" tycoon. Either way, it's a hilarious name for a game.
So many bargains there, I have to make a list and compare to other stores and local prices,thanks again for the recommendation. Next I'll check out those other stores at the top of this page.

[Australian Ninja]

Well, I had to go home to get my debit card. But then I went back to CD Universe and bought

DS Crono Trigger $19
GBA Drill Dozer $9
GBA Klonoa 2 $16

After the conversion and added postage it comes out at $70 AU. Pretty good considering I got 1 DS game and 2 GBA games for around the price of one full price AU DS game.

Thanks "whyme"

[Nic Xtreme]

Holy shit, Drill Dozer!!! I didn't realise it was in stock there! Thanks Australian Ninja!

[AyatollaofRocknRolla]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WbDJdwaltD0

Ace Attorney Investigations: Miles Edgeworth gameplay footage.

Coming to Australia Feb 19 2010.

Too bad about the long wait.

[incompatible with life]

As long as it comes with the special edition set with the fancy tea cups.

[Australian Ninja]

Holy shit, Drill Dozer!!! I didn't realise it was in stock there! Thanks Australian Ninja!


Thank your bloody self. I've never been to the site before, so as always - I just scroleld through every last page of DS games for bargains, then noticed they had GBA games, so look at all of them as well.

I wanted to round out my order with at least a second game (more worthwhile than buying two seperate items due to postage $).
Luckily I had played the 'naughty' version of Drilldozer, so I knew it was worth buying.

I HIGHLY recommend checking out the bargains on sale which include Chrono Trigger and The world ends with you at US$19 each.
http://www.cduniverse.com/browsecat.asp?style=games&cat=9311&only=Price%3A10%2D20

[Australian Ninja]

I don't know if some other forums already cover this, but thought it couldn't hurt to have a list of stores that people have bought DS /GBA games from that are reliable, with good prices and REAL games (not fakes/ pirated)

So far from the previous posts there has been:

*CD Universe
*BlahDVD
*365 Games
*Play-Asia

To that I will add:


*Biz.com
(google "biz.com DS games" if the link doesn't work)
http://stores.shop.ebay.com.au/Biz-com-Game-Store_NDS-Games_Nintendo-DS_W0QQ_fsubZ3QQ_sasiZ1QQ_sidZ183848348QQ_trksidZp 4634Q2ec0Q2em409

I recently bought "New Mario Bros." and "The World Ends With You" from this ebay store and both were around $35-40 each and were GENUINE products.
Noticed they have "Dragon Quest Heroes Rocket Slime" for $12 AU + $12 AU postage (Viewtiful Joe for the same price also), other games are more like $25-40 each.

If you have other stores to add that you have used, please do.

[Bronze]

There's a firmware update for my DSi. Downloading it now...

Just noticed that all of the Electroplankton toys are being sold seperately for 200 Points apiece as well. Same with Game & Watch. Chef and Helmet are up for 200 Points each. Tingle Set is up for 500 Points, same price for Card Hero and Dragon Quest Wars.

Japanese DSi Ware shop is shitting all over the US/PAL shop it seems. You can also download a program that streams video to the DSi from the Wii.

Aaaand that latest update just added in the ability to upload photos straight to Facebook from the DSi Camera. Also seems to have improved the camera's quality a little.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v240/Bronzeth/fbdsi.jpg

You just tap that little Facebook icon, and it instantly uploads the photo to your Facebook. You only have to enter your login details the first time, and it remembers them.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v240/Bronzeth/facebookdsi.jpg

Shows up on your Facebook page like this. Neat.

[Australian Ninja]

I wonder if the Aussie DSi store will ever be less than useless? Have to admit that I will pretty much NEVER use it, despite having a DSi. Still, its early days I guess - they could put some good content on there, it would be great to see classic games for download on the DSi, even if some of them were budget GBA re-releases.

Sounds pointless, but older games have smaller file sizes, so suit a download service pretty well.

[AranchineD]

Also for anyone interested that firmware update Bronze is talking about above will also render any flash carts useless on the machine.

[Bronze]

If you don't install it, you can't access the DSi Ware Shop.

Seems like Nintendo's got you by the balls if you want anything they release on DSi Ware.

[Lex]

you can pirate wiiware, don't see why dsiware would be any different.

*googles*

yup. eat a dick nintendo.

[Bronze]

AFAIK, there is no hack available to enable DSi Ware ROMs dumped onto an SD card to work on any other handheld. Feel free to PM me if you're otherwise enlightened.

That still wouldn't overcome the DSi Shop's firmware version-based lockout though. If you don't have the latest version, it won't let you access the store at all.

[incompatible with life]

If you don't install it, you can't access the DSi Ware Shop.

Seems like Nintendo's got you by the balls if you want anything they release on DSi Ware.
Well at least until the new protection is circumvented.


Not to mention AFAIK there's not really anythign really worth getting on DSi Ware.

[Australian Ninja]

Well, Chrono Triggerm, Drill Dozer and Klonoa 2 arrived.

I find it bizarre they put a rumble pack thing into the drill dozer cart. I'd prefer it was not there, it's just distracting when playing.

Chrono Trigger haven't got into, but the minor "upgrades" in menu display so far are pretty good and functional, and more importantly don't F*K with the game. The only thing I wish they HAD done is make the text a little larger. It's pretty hard to read on that little screen, and my one is a DSi, so I imagine it would be harder on a DS or DS Lite to read.

[Jay]

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/prof-layton-4-has-bonus-rpg-inside

Superb news. Should be playing that sometime around 2015. Hopefully it'll be worth the interminable wait.

[Nic Xtreme]

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/prof-layton-4-has-bonus-rpg-inside

Superb news. Should be playing that sometime around 2015. Hopefully it'll be worth the interminable wait.

The announcement of that little gem made me wet my pantaloons... I cannot wait for it! - I wish it was a game by itself, rather than being included in Layton 4! (Though my guess is, if that were the case, we'd never see it :(). Best game ever announced!

They should put it on DSiWare or something in addition to its Layton 4 inclusion!

[AranchineD]

Still, Prof. Layton 2 is coming out here next month (is it next month or October? I can never remember), that should fill the void for a while!

[twofivefour]

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0DhNHA4HlSE/Sliw1LLdTkI/AAAAAAAAABo/QVAFy5NioZg/s320/sarah.jpg

Ghostwire (http://www.ghostwiregame.com/)

I'm a big fan of ghosts and ghost games. The Project Zero/Fatal Frame series is a lot of fun. I'm also a fan of ARGs, or games that blur the line between reality and the virtual world. So a game that combines these two things... well, it's enough to make me really want a DSi.

Pretty much, you use the features of the DSi and the software in combination to detect ghosts, and then find a way to get rid of them. The main video shows some real promise for this game, especially with the second camera...

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_PXlLtoO1z7E/ShlDPbs0jxI/AAAAAAAAAEM/PcFPuQvoVME/s320/Ghostwire_DSi-A_Different_Game.jpg

[Australian Ninja]

The announcement of that little gem made me wet my pantaloons... I cannot wait for it! - I wish it was a game by itself, rather than being included in Layton 4! (Though my guess is, if that were the case, we'd never see it :(). Best game ever announced!

They should put it on DSiWare or something in addition to its Layton 4 inclusion!


That's the most un-exiting news I've head in quite some time. There is a bonus RPG, no real info, no interest!

[Nic Xtreme]

That's the most un-exiting news I've head in quite some time. There is a bonus RPG, no real info, no interest!

It's being developed by Brownie Brown - the developers of Mother 3 - and it looks exactly like Mother 3! And it is about "making people happy"! What more could you want to know?! It's going to be a gorgeous, touching game!

EDIT: Argh, I've been confused. That extra "make people happy RPG", London Life, is the unlockable. Another game, called Fantasy Life - what the hell is with the "Life" obsession no wonder I'm confused - is the one I'm excited about. It looks like Mother 3 (exactly like it) and sounds completely brilliant!

Info/screens (http://hellforge.gameriot.com/blogs/Hellforge/First-Fantasy-Life-Announced-A-Non-Violent-RPG-With-Multiple-Endings)

[proofreeder]

I am also confused.

On a non-related and less confusing topic, I received Chrono Trigger in the mail and I'm expecting big things from it. I've become disillusioned with games and I am hoping this will reignite my interest in them.

[Nic Xtreme]

http://gonintendo.com/viewstory.php?id=95071

Okamiden announced for DS! By the looks of the screenies, it looks like a sequel, too! ZOMG <3

[Stevorooni]

So apparently there's going to be DSi only retail games coming out that will not work on a regular DS

Nintendo, if you release a major game like Mario or Zelda only for the DSi I will be typing many forum messages in ALL CAPS and make the swear filter explode.

[fishfishmonkeyhat]

Nintendo, if you release a major game like Mario or Zelda only for the DSi I will be typing many forum messages in ALL CAPS and make the swear filter explode.

What reality are you living in?

That would be awesome so = not happening.

[Bronze]

http://gonintendo.com/viewstory.php?id=95071

Okamiden announced for DS! By the looks of the screenies, it looks like a sequel, too! ZOMG <3

Want. :D

Painting would work so much better with a DS stylus.

[aceaussie]

What reality are you living in?

That would be awesome so = not happening.

I wouldn't be surprised if they actually did that to boost DSi sales.

[Starscream]

So apparently there's going to be DSi only retail games coming out that will not work on a regular DS

Nintendo, if you release a major game like Mario or Zelda only for the DSi I will be typing many forum messages in ALL CAPS and make the swear filter explode.

Unfortunately, this may actually happen.

[Stevorooni]

It's actually happening. The boxes and cartridges will be completely white to differentiate between dsi and regular ds games

I hope that games will come out for both still and the dsi versions will be exactly the same but with a tacked on camera gimmick

[Nic Xtreme]

I was just thinking about Okamiden (AS I DO) and I remembered - didn't Flagship, Capcom's fantastic handheld-Zelda studio, get integrated into the rest of Capcom? I certainly hope they're handling Okamiden!

[ThePhotoshop]

If they are, they'll certainly feel right at home!

[Australian Ninja]

The reason I don't like the idea of big nintendo games coming out on DSi-ware store (and not as a physical product) is that not everybody has access to the internet. So it limits who the games can be sold to.

I couldn't care less about the mini-games and junk on DSi-ware, only agree that it would suck if your marios and zeldas came out as downloads and had no retail version.

[proofreeder]

If it is a "big name" game, wouldn't they be limiting themselves only releasing it on the DSi, considering how many more sales they would get on the DS?

[AranchineD]

And if the game is really good think of the sales of both the new console and the new game Nintendo will make, as opposed to if they just release it on both models of DS.

[Jay]

Chibiterasu is ridiculously cute. This is a must purchase for me. It may even finally inspire me pick up a DSi...

http://www.kotaku.com.au/2009/09/okamiden-kicks-cuteness-up-a-notch/#more-354696

[AranchineD]

*sigh*

Now everyone I turn the game on I'm going to be all ike "AWWWWWWW LOOK AT THE DOGGY DOGGY I'M GOING TO HUG AND WUV YOU EVERYDAY ^_^"

[Jay]

I know. Hopefully he/she has some kick ass moves and a potty mouth to balance it all out. :p

[Australian Ninja]

They should put that chibi wolf in a virtual pet game! Then the kids can freak out when it develops magical powers. Looks like a cool game.

[Beinkasaurus Rex]

Contemplating ordering a DSi from Play-Asia (US obv), is it region free etc?
aka are there any bad things from me doing this? >_>

[AranchineD]

DSi-specific games and software aren't (or won't be, rather) region free, but you'll still be able to play all other DS games.

[Australian Ninja]

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/Jonny9999/3072246.jpg

I love the diversity of games on the DS, this one looks really exciting, it's good that Nintendo are finally embracing games for perverts:D

[Stevorooni]

So the rumour is that yet another DS console will be released with screens as big as the PSPs

Unless they've thrown the GBA port back in there, NO DEAL NINTENDO

[Nic Xtreme]

So the rumour is that yet another DS console will be released with screens as big as the PSPs

Unless they've thrown the GBA port back in there, NO DEAL NINTENDO

Apparently it is true, it will have two 4-inch screens - according to that Japanese financial paper - but it will have the same retail price. That fact alone has me thinking it will be a similar situation to the backlit GBA SPs - that they will replace the current model.

EDIT: There we go, it is true. (http://gonintendo.com/viewstory.php?id=101818) It's just a revision to replace the current one. I shall definitely be waiting then!

[Stevorooni]

DS games will look even more pixelated!

[AranchineD]

Hmm, and still zero reason to upgrade from my phat.

[aubergine]

Aren't your fingers and wrists strained from working your weighty phat though?

[Jay]

Aran has given those fingers and wrists many a solid work out so he's fine. :)

[aubergine]

Well I'd want AT LEAST 4.2 inches to work with so Nintendo are on the right track.

A pity they didn't increase the resolution of the DSi though. I'm guessing the point of this new unit is accessibility to older, vision-impaired users.

[Cerebral]

DSi LL 2 Turbo Remix Hyper Fighting

(I'd be all over that shit if I didn't already own a DS Lite)

[Blue]

Hmm, and still zero reason to upgrade from my phat.Sorry Aran, but the Lite was a proper upgrade. Although, if I'd ever owned the original, I may not have upgraded to the Lite, either. I would have just wished I'd never bought the phat to begin with.

New DSi should have been old DSi. Nintendo can get ****ed.

[AranchineD]

Sorry Aran, but the Lite was a proper upgrade.

OHMYGODYAY BRIGHTER SCREENS pass

[Jay]

Yeah, pass until you play one. It's a massive improvement. Having said that I waited for the DSi, and now I am pissed they have have announced the new one. Oh well.

[PrattP]

Having said that I waited for the DSi, and now I am pissed they have have announced the new one. Oh well.

I'm the same. You just don't do this, Nintendo. I'll never buy an LL, in protest.

[Stevorooni]

Oh come on, it's the 4th update - no one saw this coming? If everyone complains again next year when they release a DS with even bigger screens, a higer megapixel camera and video functions then I'm nepping all of you.

I'm sticking with my lite, I needs my GBA port

[AranchineD]

Yeah, pass until you play one. It's a massive improvement. Having said that I waited for the DSi, and now I am pissed they have have announced the new one. Oh well.

I have played one and the only thing I could see that was worth an upgrade is that it can hold a bigger stylus. And I solved that problem anyway. Also the damn thing is too small for my hands.

[Stevorooni]

I have played one and the only thing I could see that was worth an upgrade is that it can hold a bigger stylus. And I solved that problem anyway. Also the damn thing is too small for my hands.

Well the DSi LL is much larger for your ape like hands and is available in all good retailers... sometime next year presumably

[Emilbus]

So glad i didn't upgrade to the DSi

[Crypt]

So glad i didn't upgrade to the DSi

Same here. The DSi just came out and were already getting another remodel :confused: Ah well, depending on how the games look on it, I might pick one up. Considering how low resolution the DS is though, it will probably look terrible.

[PrattP]

Oh come on, it's the 4th update - no one saw this coming? If everyone complains again next year when they release a DS with even bigger screens, a higer megapixel camera and video functions then I'm nepping all of you.

I'm sticking with my lite, I needs my GBA port

I think I may have said the same thing with the DSi (that I'd boycott it) but I bought one...

This time I honestly do think I'm out though. :p

[Jay]

I only bought a DSi because I was going through Duty Free and I'd had my phat for more than three years. Annoying to have a new one announced three weeks after I bought it though.

[D.C.]

It's ridiculous that they would reharsh the system four times, let alone a year or two after the previous version. ****ing Nintendo.

[VanAce]

It's ridiculous that they would reharsh the system four times, let alone a year or two after the previous version. ****ing Nintendo.

Who do they think they are... Apple?

[aubergine]

I think this, and the DSi, are weird and ill conceived decisions but only time will prove or disprove that. Having a platform evolve like this is a real break from announcing something which feels like a new product or proper sequel.

I actually enjoy it when they put out 2-3 iterations of the same platform. The GBA SP was brilliant, the GBA Micro was a great piece of hardware but.. unnecessary, and brought low by an unrealistic pricing scheme and, bizarrely, poor timing because the DS was competing with it. The DS Lite was a necessary upgrade from the prototypical Phat DS.

The DSi and now this thing could work because of the DLC aspect but again I think they have screwed up the pricing like they did with the Micro. They also did a really poor job of explaining why the DSi is awesome/necessary. Usually you'd do that with software or with the hook of a potentely imaginative hardware gimmick (such as the Wii controller.)

The good thing about Nintendo though is that they seem to come up with their best stuff while in decline, so here's hoping for as much fail from them as possible so they can get imaginative again.

[Blue]

OHMYGODYAY BRIGHTER SCREENS pass**** the brighter screens, I wouldn't know. But the form factor is a huge improvement.

[McChimp]

Oh come on, it's the 4th update - no one saw this coming? If everyone complains again next year when they release a DS with even bigger screens, a higer megapixel camera and video functions then I'm nepping all of you.

I wouldn't be surprised if this was the LAST update of the DS/i, as, if I remember correctly, I read somewhere (1up I think), that Nintendo had been in talks or licensed some new tech that was pointing at a new 'next-gen' DS. I'll try and find the source.

EDIT: Okay, rumours and speculation started by 'anonymous sources', but here's the 1up article: "nVidia powering Nintendo's next-gen DS?" (http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3176493)

And more info: "nVidia Tegra wins contract...." (http://www.brightsideofnews.com/news/2009/10/13/nvidia-tegra-wins-contract-for-next-gen-nintendo-ds.aspx)

[RunningMild]

The failingest thing about the new DSi is that the face buttons appear to be the same distance from each other as on the standard DSi. If button size/spacing is no problem for you, then stick with your standard DSi/Lite. What they should have done is made the size and spacing for the buttons identical to what they have on the original model DS. If they did that, and included a GBA port, I'd actually upgrade. But if it's going to keep the same issues that have prevented me from upgrading for all these years, then no.

[Starscream]

I'd actually prefer the larger screens. It's progress! And I would actually buy this. I mainly use the GBA-SP for GBA games and the DS for DS games. A GBA port would be handy but that's progress (to keep up with the PSP).

However, for the same price ( in Japanese Yen), I can buy a black Nintendo Wii!

[Lazlow]

Bit late but... another hardware variation. Jesus tap-dancing Christ this is getting ridiculous. I thought the PSPGo was a pointless exercise, but at least that offered some variation. Do Nintendo have any credibility left?

[Starscream]

....Do Nintendo have any credibility left?
Not much, but it's still a money making exercise.
And from what I've been told there are a lot of older people in Japan (i.e. mums, dads, grandparents) that use the DS, so the larger screens would be welcomed and they could upgrade or trade in their small screen DS.

[tau]

It's ridiculous that they would reharsh the system four times, let alone a year or two after the previous version. ****ing Nintendo.

how many iterations of the PSP have there been?

[fishfishmonkeyhat]

I think this was just a big "**** you" to Sony.

"You need to shrink your system to get sales? WE CAN INCREASE THE SIZE OF OURS AND MAKE EVEN MORE MONEY!"

[tau]

LOL

winnar^

[Lazlow]

how many iterations of the PSP have there been?

3 core models; Phat, Slim, Go

[Jay]

3 core models; Phat, Slim, Go

That sounds like the tagline for a Japanese weightloss campaign.

'Phat, Slim, Go!'

[tau]

3 core models; Phat, Slim, Go

weren't there two slimmings?

[Lazlow]

True, but fundamentally the systems didn't change, hence "core".

[punkgorilla]

Nice work shifting those goal posts.

[Australian Ninja]

So is there any news that the new DS thingo is being released outside of Japan? That article didn't have a lot to say other than the bigger screen.

My only real complaint about the DS lite / DSi, is that the buttons are crap. The L and R are the worst, the "+" controller is rubbish for 3D games, but fine for Mario & 2D games, and of course the x,b,a,y, buttons are too small and too close together.

The two models I would like to see are "kids / and people with small hands DS" and "giant size / XXL for everybody else" Maybe Nintendo just likes making westerners get sore hands from playing their handheld, or perhaps it's their way of encouraging people to "take a break"

[Starscream]

Lucky I held off on buying the DSi.

Bring on the DSi LL!

[Starscream]

The two models I would like to see are "kids / and people with small hands DS" and "giant size / XXL for everybody else" Maybe Nintendo just likes making westerners get sore hands from playing their handheld, or perhaps it's their way of encouraging people to "take a break"

From what I've been told, very few retail shops are selling the DS in Japan. Once the shop has sold out of DS stock you'll have to go to your nearest used game shop to pick up a DS unit. Clear the old stock to make room for the new stock i.e. the DSi.

I'd expect the DSi to go the way of the DS, to make room for the DSi LL.

We could have skipped the DSi and just gone straight to the DSi LL model?

[Jay]

I have just discovered that I have 1000 DSi points on my DS account - where did they come from? Is it some kind of welcome to the DSi promotion I didn't know about? Downloading Mario vs DK: Minis March Again - 800 free points! :)

[tau]

I have just discovered that I have 1000 DSi points on my DS account - where did they come from? Is it some kind of welcome to the DSi promotion I didn't know about? Downloading Mario vs DK: Minis March Again - 800 free points! :)

er yeah, didn't DSi owners get 1000 points if they bought it early?

[Jay]

Never heard that. Cool! :) Mario Minis is great fun!

[AranchineD]

Never heard that. Cool! :) Mario Minis is great fun!

You say that now. Before long you'll be throwing your DS at the wall. :)

[Jay]

Oh no doubt. I've just finished the first world and I can already see the road ahead. It's not pretty. Good thing I got it for free...

[tau]

I found my DSlite and GBMicro after losing it for 6 months! yeyyyyyyyyy~~~

[Australian Ninja]

I found my DSlite and GBMicro after losing it for 6 months! yeyyyyyyyyy~~~

Sounds like you've learned the benefits of Dave's Double Up Deals.

Double it! Now double it again! You see what I did there...:rolleyes:

[Azzaman]

Does anyone know what the cost of repairing a ds lite outside of warranty is these days? I have a feeling my one is water damaged from my sons saliva, happened back in March but I've only just bothered to send it off...

[Starscream]

If it's more than $100, I'd recommend you get a new DSL unit.

[Azzaman]

If it's more than $100, I'd recommend you get a new DSL unit.

that's what I'm thinking ;)

EDIT: Oh I'm so impatient, just got a call from the ninty repairs dept. Apparently it's un-repairable, replacement is $150, which has it's own 12 month warranty.

Not bad I guess

[.StaticA.]

Am I missing something here, or do most people not understand that the DSiLL is actually aimed at elderly people? People seem either excited about it because they want one now because it's new, or angry because Nintendo are trying to make another new DS and phase out the DSi.
The LL is aimed at elderly people who can't see the small screen. If you have bad eyesight, whatever, but for everyone else, the DSi isn't going anywhere.

I was also wondering, what are some good recommendations for DSiWare? I also have a few points from when I got the thing, but I haven't found anything that I definitely want to buy. If there are any must-have DSiWare titles, I'd love to know what they are.

[aubergine]

I didn't think anyone was even TALKING about the DS iLL.

Until Miles Edgeworth comes out there's not much cause for DS discussion.

[Starscream]

Oh I'm so impatient, just got a call from the ninty repairs dept. Apparently it's un-repairable, replacement is $150, which has it's own 12 month warranty.

Not bad I guess

You get a brand new replacement DSL for $150?


Am I missing something here, or do most people not understand that the DSiLL is actually aimed at elderly people? People seem either excited about it because they want one now because it's new, or angry because Nintendo are trying to make another new DS and phase out the DSi.
The LL is aimed at elderly people who can't see the small screen. If you have bad eyesight, whatever, but for everyone else, the DSi isn't going anywhere.

I'm willing to bet the DSi will be phased out to make room for the DSiLL. It's just progress.



To quote Blake:

I think this was just a big "**** you" to Sony.

"You need to shrink your system to get sales? WE CAN INCREASE THE SIZE OF OURS AND MAKE EVEN MORE MONEY!"

[Jickle]

I've got 1000 points sitting here in my brand new DSi, what should I spend them on?

[Jay]

I spent mine on Mini Mario (well, 800 of them anyway). It's great fun.

[Australian Ninja]

I didn't think anyone was even TALKING about the DS iLL.

Until Miles Edgeworth comes out there's not much cause for DS discussion.

Wow, never thought I'd see Nintendo release a machine that could be referred to as "ILL", so it's either cool or sickly?

[Manny M]

Well it is for old people, so i'd be thinking the latter.

[Australian Ninja]

I saw one of these in the airport in the SONY store of all places (Melbourne)

THe DS iLL, - as it shall be known - looks damn ugly. I can see teh bigger screen being better for the golden oldies, but is the marketing going to let them know it's for THEM and not us? Has anybody seen some ads yet (in whatever media) that show it being targetted to that audience...

[buckstwits]

There's an ad with a grandpa playing the LL with his grandchildren on YouTube

[Emilbus]

So my friend let me borrow Might & Magic: Clash of Heroes. Only started playing for about an hour or so but WOW. Its like Puzzle Quest with a twist.

[Nic Xtreme]

So my friend let me borrow Might & Magic: Clash of Heroes. Only started playing for about an hour or so but WOW. Its like Puzzle Quest with a twist.

Yeah it's been pulling in some mighty fine reviews, it's definitely one to nab cheap down the track!

[Roman Salute]

I got a DSi LL yesterday & it's bloody awesome imo. It's actually very thin and doesn't weigh that much. I find it a lot more comfortable to play action orientated games with then the lite or original ds. The screens look great and it really makes a difference when playing something like Ketsui. I don't have a dsi so it was worthwhile getting this, the japanese menus aren't hard to get used to, I've already set up the internet & grabbed some dsiware titles. The Japanese shop has some great stuff like the Arika shooter & that cursed platform game. I got it from HMV japan and it cost around $250AUD after ems shipping. I'm very happy with it.

I took some comparison pics in case anyone's been hiding under a rock. Unfortunately I don't have a lynx or a game gear but I did the best with what I've got.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2721/4289993862_1462cb8e61.jpg http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2762/4289993972_53106443cc.jpg http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4026/4289994058_8087651e45.jpg

[Starscream]

Is the DSiLL charger multi-voltage?

Can I use my DSL charger to charge the DSiLL?

[Nic Xtreme]

Wow, never thought I'd see Nintendo release a machine that could be referred to as "ILL", so it's either cool or sickly?

After "Wii" what did you expect? Then again over here it's to be called the DSi XL...

[.StaticA.]

I got a DSi LL yesterday...

...Why?

[Starscream]

...Why?
Bigger screen than a DSi?
Exchange rate is good?
He doesn't own a DSi?
Wants to play Japanese DSi games?
Wants to buy DSi games from DSi marketplace?

[Australian Ninja]

I got a DSi LL yesterday & it's bloody awesome imo. It's actually very thin and doesn't weigh that much. I find it a lot more comfortable to play action orientated games with then the lite or original ds. The screens look great and it really makes a difference when playing something like Ketsui. I don't have a dsi so it was worthwhile getting this, the japanese menus aren't hard to get used to, I've already set up the internet & grabbed some dsiware titles. The Japanese shop has some great stuff like the Arika shooter & that cursed platform game. I got it from HMV japan and it cost around $250AUD after ems shipping. I'm very happy with it.

I took some comparison pics in case anyone's been hiding under a rock. Unfortunately I don't have a lynx or a game gear but I did the best with what I've got.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2721/4289993862_1462cb8e61.jpg http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2762/4289993972_53106443cc.jpg http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4026/4289994058_8087651e45.jpg

Ohhh, blackberry flavour. That larger screen is sexy.

[Roman Salute]

Is the DSiLL charger multi-voltage?

Can I use my DSL charger to charge the DSiLL?

The one that comes with it isn't multi voltage but an australian one will work fine. I got a usb charger from ebay for $5 and a 3rd party mains charger from big-w for $20, both of which work with the lite, dsi & ll.

Why?

All the points starscream outlined apply.

I just used up a 3000 points card and got 9 games for under $50, 5 shooters, a beatemup, a puzzle platform ninja thing & 2 volumes of the most hardcore platforming there is (http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ds/dsiware/kjijkg9j/index.html). Pretty good value imo & none of the games are avaliable outside japan yet.

Why the large model though? I've always found the dslite to be uncomfortable and the screens a bit small. Having two psp sized screens and more room for hand placement has made the ds a lot more exciting. I was actually hyped for the LL when it was still a rumour and in the conceptual phase. When the dsi came out with slightly larger screens I thought that might be it but held off because it wasn't that big a difference but when the LL was announced and the dsiware library was getting better I knew I had to get one.

I checked my bank today and it worked out at $262 now there's no way the price is going to be that reasonable when it's released here I reckon it'll be more like $350 or something. For me the question's not why but why not.

[Starscream]

The one that comes with it isn't multi voltage but an australian one will work fine. I got a usb charger from ebay for $5 and a 3rd party mains charger from big-w for $20, both of which work with the lite, dsi & ll.
So an Australian DS Lite adapter/charger will fit in the DSiLL adapter port on the DSiLL console or not?

[Roman Salute]

A lite charger won't work, only a DSi charger will work. What I was saying before was what I ended up buying has two plugs, one for a lite and one for a DSi.

It's bizzare but after 5 handhelds with built in batteries, nintendo finally did a new revision that doesn't need its own seperate charger. Surprised me that's for sure.

[Starscream]

If I do decide to import (probably the Wine Red colour), I'll call Nintendo Australia just to see how much an "official" DSi charger costs.

On that note:
GBA charger compatible with DSphat (and vice versa)
DSL only compatilbe with DSL.
DSi charger compatible with DSiLL (and vice versa)

And one can logically conclude that they are all voltage specific to their country/region (unlike the PSP which is multi-voltage).

EDIT: Going to buy the Game & Watch collection from the DSi marketplace!

[Clift]

So I've been looking at purchasing a DS, but I'm kind of up in the air in regards to buying a DS Lite, or a DSi...

The only addition on the DSi that really perked my interest was the online store; Is it any good?

Opinions / guidance much appreciated! :p

[Starscream]

So I've been looking at purchasing a DS, but I'm kind of up in the air in regards to buying a DS Lite, or a DSi...

The only addition on the DSi that really perked my interest was the online store; Is it any good?

Opinions / guidance much appreciated! :p

The only advantage of owning a DSL is the GBA slot and being still to be able to play GBA games.

But if you have a perfectly working GBA/GBA SP and can't be bothered playing GBA games on the DS, I'd opt for the DSi (or wait for the DSiLL if you want a bigger screen and if it's released here in Australia).

However, the DSi marketplace in US and Australia (site is down?) isn't as good as the Japanese DSi marketplace though.

It will improve over time, just like the Wiiware and Virtual Arcade.

[driftout625]

The Australian release date for the Dsi XL is 15th April. The UK release date is 5th March.

[Nic Xtreme]

NoooooOOOOOOOOOOOOOOooooooooooooooOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO O!!!

One of my absolute favourite developers has gone bankrupt... now where I will get these sorts of games from?! :'( (http://www.kotaku.com.au/2010/03/hotel-dusk-developer-goes-bankrupt/#more-382681)

[Roman Salute]

I discovered recently that I was able to buy japanese dsiware points with my Visa card, 3000 points cost $38AU, that's a little bit cheaper then Aus points isn't it?

The JPN store is good and gets lots of updates, but I wish they'd put Dark Void Zero on there :(

[Australian Ninja]

So I've been looking at purchasing a DS, but I'm kind of up in the air in regards to buying a DS Lite, or a DSi...

The only addition on the DSi that really perked my interest was the online store; Is it any good?

Opinions / guidance much appreciated! :p

Plus the DSi has a brighter screen (5 adjustable settings). Depends on if you HAVE to play something now, if you can wait - the DSi LL has a much larger and lovelier screen and if I didn't already have a DSi I would buy one for sure.

How stupid they didn't release the LL in place of the DSi in the first place. Still, I may get an LL down the track for the right price. The size looks much better for my big hands. I can't play handhelds for longer periods of time without significant discomfort.

[McChimp]

http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3178342

.......interesting read, although it's all still rumour right now.

[Starscream]

I was going to import to a DSiLL but I may wait given this information.

[Queenie]

I have a quick question- I'm still an old-school ds player (ie, massive massive control pad)

and pretty much don't want to upgrade due to this fact. Anyone know why they changed control pad size etc, or won't release another with big control pad?

[McChimp]

I was going to import to a DSiLL but I may wait given this information.

Same here. I was REALLY tempted to get one, but not if it means there's another one, likely backwards-compatible, around the corner. Typical Nintendo though.

[Australian Ninja]

I have a quick question- I'm still an old-school ds player (ie, massive massive control pad)

and pretty much don't want to upgrade due to this fact. Anyone know why they changed control pad size etc, or won't release another with big control pad?

-Because we are all 4 feet tal and have hands the size of 50 cent coins?

-To destory my thumbs?

The DS Lite / DSi '+' is pretty horrible, and near useless for many games.

[Australian Ninja]

http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3178342

.......interesting read, although it's all still rumour right now.

If they release a DS2 I sure hope it's backwards compatible. Otherwise I'll be ignoring it. Still got plenty of current unfinished games to play.

[Blob]

Rumors of DS2 have been flying about recently and to be honest im inclined to believe them. My major reason for this is that pokemon Gen 5 is due for release in Japan at the end of the year. What better way to release a new handheld? And with the supposed GCN power that the DS2 is packing everyone will get that 3d pokemon theyve been after (Possibly).

[RunningMild]

Rumors of DS2 have been flying about recently and to be honest im inclined to believe them. My major reason for this is that pokemon Gen 5 is due for release in Japan at the end of the year. What better way to release a new handheld? And with the supposed GCN power that the DS2 is packing everyone will get that 3d pokemon theyve been after (Possibly).

Plus it will do what Sony couldn't do- completely kill off the PSP. :p

[Nic Xtreme]

How good is Dark Void Zero - for 500 points you really cannot go wrong! It's worth that price for the music alone.

[McChimp]

BAH!! Damn Nintendo for the DSi and DSiWare!! Damn me for not having a DSi!!!!

[fishfishmonkeyhat]

If the new DS doesn't have an analogue stick it can suck a dick.

[Stevorooni]

If the new DS doesn't have an analogue stick it can suck a dick.

That better be the new slogan for it too.

I doubt it will be out this year, the DSi LL has barely been released and it will kill the sales if a new model is announced so soon.

But I want

- At least 1 analogue stick, preferably 2 for better camera controls
- Double touch screens
- Proper online system
- Multimedia features, play movies, music
- Decent amount of built in memory plus ability to expand

But I wouldn't put it past Nintendo to gimp the bloody thing.

[RunningMild]

I doubt it will be out this year, the DSi LL has barely been released and it will kill the sales if a new model is announced so soon.

I dunno. The developers who have kits are saying their games will be complete by the end of the year.

[Stevorooni]

I dunno. The developers who have kits are saying their games will be complete by the end of the year.

I'll believe it when it's confirmed by developers who will put a name to their claims.

It still seems too soon, I think there's a definite possibility of it being released in 2011 but this year still seems way too quick to go from "Top Secret Project" to "Wow new console released and ready to go!". I'd love to be wrong though, I love new stuff!

The DS did come out over 5 years ago so we're probably due for a proper upgrade.

[McChimp]

If it's going to happen, I'd pick pre-Xmas, seeing as that's the 'big-spending' season.

[Australian Ninja]

BAH!! Damn Nintendo for the DSi and DSiWare!! Damn me for not having a DSi!!!!

Stop complaining, you'd only get blood all over it.

So is there 'may'be a DS2, will the DSi LL still be getting released over here?

[fishfishmonkeyhat]

Does Nintendo like your money?!

[Vindik8or]

Kicking myself really hard today for not grabbing Etrian Odyssey II while it was in stock at my local Gametraders. Searching around for it online has revealed a lot of Australian sites trying to pull a swifty on me and have Etrian Odyssey listed as the sequel, and for cheap too! Importing will probably set me back twice as much as it was in stores.

[fishfishmonkeyhat]

No DSiWare transfers to DSi XL. (http://au.gamespot.com/news/6254377.html?tag=latestheadlines;title;1)

If they pull this shit with DSiWare to 3DS transfers I'll be switching to piracy exclusively.

I suspect most people would.

Same for Wii to WiiHD too, obviously.

[Starscream]

..
Same for Wii to WiiHD too, obviously.

Funny guy.

[Nic Xtreme]

Nintendo's EU release list for the DS is out. It's less of a guide than their Wii one, however, as Europe gets usually shafted with DS releases.

Still, here it is (bolded titles are of my personal interest):

* Runaway A twist of fate (Focus Home Interactive) - 15th April
* Diva Girls: Diva Ballerina (505 Games Ltd) - 23rd April
* Mind, Body & Soul: Spellbound 2 (505 Games Ltd) - 23rd April
* Emergency Rescue (505 Games Ltd) - 23rd April
* Mind, Body & Soul: Blend It! (505 Games Ltd) - 23rd April
* WarioWare: Do It Yourself (Nintendo) - 30th April
* Iron Man 2 (SEGA) - April
* Sonny With a Chance (Disney Interactive Studios) - 7th May
* Petz Fantasy (UBISOFT) - 12th May
* Prince of Persia: The Forgotten Sands (UBISOFT) - 13th May
* Galactic Taz Ball (Warner Brothers Interactive Entertainment) - 14th May
* Jam with the Band (Nintendo) - 21st May
* B-Unts-Build It! (505 Games Ltd) - 28th May
* Shrek Forever After (Activision) - May
* Shooting Watch (HUDSON SOFT CO.,LTD.) - May
* Repetto presents Ballerina (Deep Silver) - May
* Sports Island DS (Hudson Soft) - May
* Cradle of Egypt (Rising Star Games) - May
* Rooms: The Main Building (Nintendo) - 4th June
* Club Penguin : Herberts Revenge (Disney Interactive Studios) - 17th June
* Toy Story 3 (Disney Interactive Studios) - 17th June
* Sherlock Holmes and the Mystery of Osborne House (Focus Home Interactive) - 24th June
* Mega Man Zero Collection (Capcom) - June
* Top Model Academy (SevenGames) - Q2
* The Crown of Midas (SevenGames) - Q2

JAM WITH THE BAND OMG OMG FINALLY! Will it be the original title? Will it be the sequel? The suspense!

ALSO: Where the **** is Picross 3D?
ALSO: This list is fairly sparse, though I'll be playing Pokemon anyway.

[Starscream]

That list = fail.

[Grubdog]

Who's getting a DSi XL? I wasn't interested until I heard some really good impressions around the net about the screen and battery life. It's out in a couple of days, think any store like GAME or EB Games would let me take one out of the box and have a look first? I really wanna try it before buying it.

[Starscream]

I was but I'll wait on 3DS reviews on pricing and performance.

If there's a price drop on DSiLL as a result of 3DS, I'll probably get an import DSiLL

[Jay]

Who's getting a DSi XL? I wasn't interested until I heard some really good impressions around the net about the screen and battery life. It's out in a couple of days, think any store like GAME or EB Games would let me take one out of the box and have a look first? I really wanna try it before buying it.

Surely anywhere worth its salt will have a demo unit? Though of course I should remember who we're talking about here...and JB don't tend to have handheld out either...but still.

[Natrak]

I wound up ordering an XL today, I've held onto my phat since launch, so I guess at least I'm not buying a third or fourth DS. Even with the 3DS on the way, I figure that'll be a significant wait and it'll be a while before it gathers a good range of quality titles anyway.

[aubergine]

Has there been a compelling reason to get the DSi at all? Only thing I'd have a DS for now is Miles Edgeworth, not a good reason to spend an extra $120.

[Natrak]

Honestly, DSiWare and the larger screens (also with better colour considering I'm upgrading from a Phat) were enough to sell it to me. The extra cost isn't terribly justified, no, even with pre-installed 'games'. However, I want the device, so I find myself willing to pay the extra money.

[aubergine]

There's stuff worthwhile on the dsiware?

I'm very wary of anything involving Nintendo + Internet.

[Jickle]

I grabbed Alphabounce from DSiWare the other day. I....think I like it?

[fishfishmonkeyhat]

Maybe if I could move my dsiware purchases over to it.

[aubergine]

"We expect our fans will want to take a second job to pay for all the games they've bought, again."

When Kutaragi Met Iwata

"I'll print what HE'S printing!"

[Natrak]

Man, the DSi XL screens are just awesome.

[McChimp]

Ohhhhhhhhhh SHUT UP!

Seriously resisting the urge to layby one of these, but I seriously CAN'T justify it with the "3DS" maybe only 12 months away. That and the fact that I barely use my current DS, and, well......GRRRR!!

[AyatollaofRocknRolla]

Dsiware has a lot of untapped potential. Nintendo seem to be going for a uber casual slant with dsiware, understandable but a missed opportunity.

I like the bite size nature of dsiware titles, and there's worthwhile games on there. I have about 5:

Alphabounce (great arkanoid clone with rpg elements)
pop plus (is alright, a bit simplistic)
flight control (ok for a quick distraction)
Starship Defense (great tower denfence game)
Pictobits (A great puzzler with retro Ninty aesthetics)

There's enough there at the moment that I'm happy to have upgraded. Though its annoying that our store is lacking some of the good games that I had read about from the US store, although I guess they'll eventually see a realese.


I grabbed Alphabounce from DSiWare the other day. I....think I like it?

Me too. It seems like good a game to when you have a a spare few mintues. Plenty of content for 500 pts too. Also chasing upgrades will probably keep me coming back.

[aubergine]

I'd like to try the Professor Layton games but Nintendo are asking just too much, pricing their handhelds at the price the Wii should have been two years ago.

[Jickle]

Me too. It seems like good a game to when you have a a spare few mintues. Plenty of content for 500 pts too. Also chasing upgrades will probably keep me coming back.

It's cool, but sometimes you just get swamped with power-ups and avoiding the 'bad' ones (autopilot is a bitch) becomes hard. For $7.50 though, it's great.

[Natrak]

I grabbed Dark Void Zero, it's pretty damn awesome, particularly for the $7.50 asking price. I think I might grab Photo Dojo as well.

[fishfishmonkeyhat]

That's up?

I think I want to hold off buying anymore dsiware games until they confirm whether I can move them to the 3DS.

If not I'd probably want to start buying stuff on the DSiXL. Or the 3DS I guess, assuming it uses the same service. Which I would.

[Ingram]

EB Games of all places are probably selling the DSi for the cheapest yet at the moment.

http://www.ecogamer.com/images/stories/content10/20100414222614_eb5.jpg

Sure beats the $300 I paid at launch.

[Natrak]

The price for the standard DSi has officially dropped to $250, so if you're looking for the cheapest price it wouldn't surprise me if you see it cheaper elsewhere soon.

[Ingram]

Errr? I just posted confirming it's already cheaper :P

[aubergine]

$180 or GTFO.

[Natrak]

Errr? I just posted confirming it's already cheaper :P

I know, and that 'you' was more of a general you than a specific you. :P

I just meant that EB's price drop is the result of the official price dropping and that other places will likely have it cheaper than $237 soon (eg it's $230 at game.com.au (http://www.game.com.au/search?search=nintendo%20dsi))

[aubergine]

Wait for Christmas bundles. I think the rrp of the Wii will drop $50 in the fourth quarter, possibly more, to combat Natal / Move, and as a direct result the rrp of the handhelds will also move, and / or vastly better value bundles will appear.

[Natrak]

Earthworm Jim on DSiWare? Hell yes.

[AranchineD]

Okay, that's it, I'm getting a DSi now
.

[Australian Ninja]

Ohhhhhhhhhh SHUT UP!

Seriously resisting the urge to layby one of these, but I seriously CAN'T justify it with the "3DS" maybe only 12 months away. That and the fact that I barely use my current DS, and, well......GRRRR!!

What he said. Exactly what he said. But I REALLY want to be able to read text in DS games and the new model would help with that.

[SOX]

I'm moving in the opposite direction. **** reading text, I just bought a Gameboy Micro.

[fishfishmonkeyhat]

Why don't we get Photo Dojo for free?

I LIKE FREE STUFF!

[Natrak]

Why don't we get Photo Dojo for free?

I LIKE FREE STUFF!

It's what, $3? :P

[fishfishmonkeyhat]

I didn't say I like stuff that costs money man!

Also I'm waiting to see if I can transfer this stuff to the 3DS.

[Knuckle Children]

Has anyone played Picross 3D? I'm a big fan of the original Picross, how does it compare?

[Australian Ninja]

I'm moving in the opposite direction. **** reading text, I just bought a Gameboy Micro.

I'd like to see Chrono Trigger running on the micro. "If you squint you can almost make out a tiny box with what look like words in it".

I've not played CT on my DSi because the text is so small, so looking forward to a bigger screen.

[SOX]

I'd like to see Chrono Trigger running on the micro. "If you squint you can almost make out a tiny box with what look like words in it".

I've not played CT on my DSi because the text is so small, so looking forward to a bigger screen.

As it turns out I've been playing Link to the Past on it and have had zero problems reading the text.

[aubergine]

The GB Micro is clear as day, regardless of text size. I rate it the best iteration of the GBA by a long shot.

If you have trouble reading Chrono Trigger text on the DSlite or DSi then I can only guess you must be medically blind. If you are, I don't mean that as an insult, but if you aren't, STOP BEING WEIRD.

[Starscream]

auT0A6AniYI

Price drop for the other DSi consoles, coincidentally around the same time as the release of the 3DS.

Want the Blue DSi LL.

[Stevorooni]

I need a new DS game to hammer out on the train, I wouldn't mind a JRPG but do they make those without turn based battles anymore?

Can anyone recommend something to me?

[sausage]

Buy a PSP and get Monster Hunter Freedom Unite.

[AranchineD]

A Witch's Tale

[fearofthesky]

I need a new DS game to hammer out on the train, I wouldn't mind a JRPG but do they make those without turn based battles anymore?

Can anyone recommend something to me?

Lock's Quest! Not a JRPG but an awesome combo of action and tower defence.

I hear Dragon Quest IX will be out soon...if it isn't already.