Game Consoles

Sony had first announced about its portable PSP handheld console in the year 2003 at E3, which first arrived the stores of UK in the year 2005. The PSP Go is the latest device of Sony in the family of portable handhelds that has seen three different models since it was originally launched in the year 2005. This model has dropped the hugely unpopular Universal Media Disc format in favour of the digital downloads via Sony’s online store.

A bold effort:

This PSP is a massive initiative by Sony to capitalise over its massive popularity of Sony PS2 in order to move across its new market, which is pretty much owned by its very strong rival company in the gaming market, the Nintendo. Though Nintendo is said to be having the edge with its dual touch screen at a lower cost, over Sony’s costlier console with a better specification, Sony has still managed to attract a significant amount of market with its much faster, sleeker and good looking PSP.

What is new on the Go:

So, if you ask us what is new in the device? It is not radically new to the PSP trade. Apart from being much smaller than the other 3 previous gens of the compact gaming, it features some additions like slide out controls, built-in Bluetooth and the radical change being completely digital, completely deserting the cartridges and optical discs.

PSP though a makeover:

The list of features of the PSP Go Console is very less, but the device has gone though a complete makeover. The main focus of the make-over has been on removing some fat and shedding some weight. Sony PSP Go is available in black and white colours; you can expect some colourful models in the future though. Sony has maintained the glossy finishing of the device that attracts scratches and fingerprints as in the case of all the previous models. However, the surfaces surrounding the D-pad and the other controls have been given matte finishing.

Display and Dimensions:

Another thing that you will notice after the very obvious decrease in the width of PSP Go is the fact that its 3.8” display is slightly smaller than the PSP 3000′s 4.3″ display. The resolution has been maintained to be the same its widescreen aspect ratio and 480 x 272 pixels too. Though the screen now has a smaller surface area with less viewing space, since the resolution is in-tact, the graphics look much sharper. The screen is not having the interlacing issue that its predecessor suffered with. The colours, Screen and Brightness have been improvised a lot too.

These design changes are paying off in the dimensions of the device which measures just 2.75” tall, 5” wide, and just above ½ inch thick. Especially, when the device is kept close, the minimalistic deign is very appealing.

Into the Pocket-Friendly club:

One of the most evident problem that both the previous models of the PSP and all the various iterations of the Nintendo DS in the last five years was that,  though they had the term pocket friendly in their name tag, they were truly not “Pocket” friendly, unless you are wearing cargo pants with a deep O pocket styling. And we have said this because, the latest PSP Go has come in as a exception by being truly pocket friendly, by sliding easily into your jean pockets without showing off too much of a bulge. But we are not promising any gamer who is a fan of the latest trend of “Skinny Jeans”, as you will not be succeeding shoehorning the PSP Go or any other device for that matter, into your pockets.

Sliding controls:

You will find that the controls are hidden in a slider that pulls from underneath the screen whenever you intend to start playing or watching a video. With the much improved display, the controls that are hidden away are surely a design win. It has 2 circular rubber pads that allow you to gripe the device well. The overall finger and thumb control over the device is far better when compared with the Nintendo DSi.

Gripes with the arrangement and size of the controls:

Yet, we will have to point out some of the black spots in the arrangement of the controls specially, their in-game performance. Clearly, the issues caused are only because of miniaturising them and awkward positioning. The analog stick has been placed to the right of the D pad that makes you feel off-centred. While put into real action, we will not aid noticing that the new placing felt way too awkward. Though the new PSP users will not find it a big issue, the other PSP veterans will certainly not appreciate the difference. The analog stick offered is smaller than that found on its predecessors, but it gives you a feeling that it is much more sturdy and durable. You can also feel that there is a lot of friction while moving around; they are not much looser as in 3000.

Placement of the controls:

Most of the time, the buttons exhibited no issues, they had solid operations assigned to them like the ones in the Nintendo DSi. The L and R buttons are more prominent, which will be preferred by most of the gamers instead of the shoulder buttons that adorned the earlier versions of the PSP. The start and select buttons have been placed too close to each other and they also do not have the same tactile feedback as the other buttons are having. There has been some rearrangement with the sound, volume and display buttons too; they can now be found between the L and R shoulder controls. They work alright, but the issue is that you have to look at their place when the display is slid up to make use of it. Fortunately, the remaining controls have been left where they had been previously. While the power switch still sits on the lower right, the wireless switch sits on the lower left side of the console, right below the M2 micro card slot, about which we will discuss below.

Memory:

As we had mentioned in the intro, Sony has replaced the UMD media slot with a internal storage unit. Likewise, a mini M2 Micro Memory card slot has taken the place of the proprietary Memory Stick Pro Duo.

Microphone:

As in the case of its predecessor, the PSP Go Video Game Console too has a built-in microphone for applications like Skype and also for making calls via the WiFi. You will find the microphone between analog stick and the Start and Select buttons. By investing on some additional cables, you can hook-up the PSP Go to a TV and you can also buy either a composite or component cable for displaying videos and games.

Absent features of PSP GO:

There are a couple of things that you will not locate on the PSP Go; a touchscreen and a 2nd analog stick. While the former would make some of the first person shooting games easy and fun, the latter is expected simply because the feature is available in its rival gaming console, the DSi. With a touchscreen interface, you would have also enjoyed the advantages of an on screen keyboard for on-screen data entry and surfing.

Efforts paid off:

The whole device stands as a treat showing off the efforts of the design engineers of Sony who have impressively managed to reduce the size and weight of the console. Yet, we have a few grips with the miniaturisation efforts of Sony. First of all, it is disappointing that there is simply no way that you will be able to remove the battery, so you will have to be a really stingy player for about four hours as long as you are away from a plug point. Though it is not too bad for daily use, this will prove to be a killer blow if you are on a long flight journey or something equivalent.

Disappointment for the big hands:

If you are a gamer with big hands, forget it! The Sony PSP Go is not the console for you. They have squeezed the D pad and the analogue nub into a very small real estate that will be a deal breaker for you. If you are having big hands, it is better that you at least get a demo for about half an hour, playing with any of your friend’s device or that of your dealer, before you even think of swiping your card.

WiFi with no upgrades:

Wi-Fi is back, but then unfortunately looks like Sony decided against any upgrades for it. So, guess any kind of connection is going to work, provided it is just the basic 802.11b category and nothing can lend you a helping hand if the encryption is set to anything other than WEP or WPA1.

Browser:

What can be told of the web browser – only that it is awfully slow, especially with viewing fat websites. Talk about Flash playback, it appallingly cumbersome!.

Bluetooth 3.0 connectivity:

Sony has added Bluetooth 3.0 connectivity in its PSP GO handheld Console, which is a very good addition as it makes all the wireless tasks feasible and extremely easy. With this feature, you can connect to wireless headsets, but we had experienced some difficulties in getting a stereo headset in good working condition, connected to the device. One very fine advantage of the Bluetooth feature is that you will be able to control the PSP via a PS3 controller. But for this to work; you have to connect both the devices and the controller to a PS3 simultaneously with the help of USB cables. 

A better media:

Since the UMD slot has been removed, accessing of all the multimedia and gaming has to be done via the 16GB of internal storage or with the M2 memory stick. With the help of the built-in WiFi, you will be able to download software from the Sony PlayStation store directly to their PSP Go, or even transfer data from the PC or PS3 via a USB. You can expect Sony to sell some big budget downloadable games, which will also be available in the UMD media and for such titles; it will be a wiser to transfer data directly from your PC or PlayStation 3 with the help of USB instead of using the WiFi connection on your PSP. For instance, downloading the MotorStrom of 520MB takes over two hours to finish from the GO and just 20 minutes via the PC.

Multimedia capabilities:

Apart from gaming, you can have fun with the multimedia capabilities of the PSP Go that includes playback of videos, digital music and photos. As we mentioned earlier, it also has a rudimentary web browser and a dedicated Internet Radio player.

Operating System:

The PSP Go operates on an OS that is slightly different from that of its predecessors; Software version 5.70. There is very little difference between them and this will be mostly because of the fact that the slider has an effect on the behaviour of the device. For instance, while the display of the system is closed, the device gets into a screensaver mode that displays an analog clock and date. When the device is slid open again, you will be taken to the XMB menu. These specific behaviours of the device can be customised, for instance, you can set the device to go into sleep instead of the clock display.

One other improvement that has been made to the firmware of the PSP GO is that, you have an option to pause a game and return to the cross media bar. And while playing, just by hitting over the PlayStation logo button in the bottom left corner of the screen, the home menu will come up and by hitting over the Pause Game button, freeze the game and return to it later by clicking over the “Resume Game” button under the game icon in the XMB. Though it takes about 10 seconds to pause a game, this feature is very useful.

Games seal the deal:

Fashion factors aside, you must be asking us what is the great deal with the £225 price tag for this new kit, and you may even argue with us saying that you might as well buy a new PS3 slim for that kind of a tag. So, here is the deal why you must go for this UMD free toddler. Sony has decided to enlarge the online offering that are available to more than two hundred and twenty five games, 2300 movies and more than 13,000 TV episodes and the new game titles include the most anticipated titles and brand new ones. You will be able to put some serious time in on your commutes to work this Christmas with the new Gran Turismo, Motostrom: Artic Edge or Fifa 10, really tempting, is it not?  Some of the other noteworthy PSP titles include Pixel Junk Monsters Deluxe, Tiger Woods PGA tour 10, Soulcaliber: Broken Destiny, Monster Hunter: Freedom Unite, Madden NFL 10, God of War: Chain of Olympus, Star Wars: Beaterator, Battlefront II, Field runners, Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Vegas and Tetris.

The PlayStation store:

In order to taste the same kind of success that Apple tasted with the micro transaction based download method with the iPhone and iPod Touch, Sony is trying very hard in order to add similar elements of informal gaming to the PlayStation store. As an initiative in this attempt, Sony has included the PSP Minis which is the latest bite sized casual gaming that will be offered exclusively in the PlayStation Store. The best part about these games is that they are not exclusive to PSP GO; they can be downloaded by any of the PlayStation users, it is just that they are released at the same time as the GO. You can buy them either by load up with the PlayStation Store Credits or even by buying the prepaid cards at the retailers that have a exclusive unlock code. We found that these games cost a wee little more than the usual costs paid at the App stores.

Not very intuitive:

The PlayStation is not an intuitive online applications store. There are no screen shots offers for the games and they are also not organised in a logical manner. Yet another issue with the downloading is that, once you start downloading, you will not be able to use the GO for any other stuff awaiting the download gets over.

The PlayStation network:

If you are having games and content across a number of Sony devices, you can link them all into your online PlayStation Network account in order to make sure that you can view or play whatever you have purchased. This is in fact quite useful and with this technology available, you will be able to share content with up to 5 Sony devices. They can be bought just once and you can make use of them in any of PSPs or PS3 at no additional charge.

This is just one reason why you might want to go for the PSP Go, you can download games, demos, movies and trailers from Sony’s online store quite easily and the whole process is pretty straightforward. But if you are possessing a stack of the older UMD games, that are not available on the PS store, then you will be a little displeased. And we are sure that no one will be really interested in two PSP versions with them.

Performance:

Though there are a few speculations that there is an advanced chipset employed in the PSP GO that aids in a better performance, we virtually found that there is not much difference with this model and its predecessor.

Software:

Sony has included a Media Go Software in the package that allows you to convert most of the videos for playback on the PSP Go and also rip audio CDs to the device. The software functions between the PC and PSP Go, the same way as iTunes and iPod.

Battery and battery life of PSP GO:

As in the case of its iPhone companion, the PSP GO is also bad in battery life. In addition to this the fact that it is not user replaceable is letting us down. This has been deliberately done by Sony in order to combat piracy, as we know that the earlier PSP models have been demoralized through traditional battery packs like Pandora’s Battery. The battery life is same as that you must have found in the PSP 2000 and PSP 3000. Sony claims that you will get about three to six hrs of gaming period. The ability to manually check the battery life in the PSP has been removed, hope to get back the feature in the next firmware upgrade.

Inside the box:

The accessories supplied with the console include an AC adaptor, Media GO software, a USB chord and an instruction manual. As in the case of the previous PSPs, Sony has not offered a standard mini USB port and in its place, all has to be connected with the help of a proprietary port. This includes AC adaptor, the USB cord and the afore-mentioned PSP Go cable accessories that you can view the titles and videos on the telly.

Warranty:

Sony offers its latest PSP GO one year limited warranty for parts and labour.

Verdict:

The new Sony PSP Go has been designed beautifully for the “On the go” gamers. It certainly has the wow factor that you would like your mates to be impressed with the new and innovative technology. It is a great device, but we feel that it is over-priced. The value of it can be determined only by the kind of games and videos Sony offers for the device online. With the PSP3000 available at a much lower cost, it is hard for us to recommend Go to the people; the console also has little games that it can play now.

You can go forward and get the device playing for you, if you have no issues with the staggering price tag.

Sony PSP GO Game Console (Black, White) – Specification Details

Manufacturer	Sony
Model Name	PSP GO
Form factor	Handheld
Dimensions (H x W x D)	2.7” x 5” x 0.7”
Weight	5.6 oz
Display Type	3.8 in TFT active matrix LCD display
Display Colour Support	16.7 million colours
Available Enclosure Colours	Black and White
Colour Support	Yes
Included Games	Gran Turismo, Motostrom: Artic Edge or Fifa 10 and lots more
Media Type	16GB internal storage unit M2 micro memory card
Significant Features	Slider screen Pocket friendly PlayStation Store Bluetooth
Processor Type	333 MHz
Built-in Speakers	Yes
Sound output mode	Stereo
Connectivity Features	Headphones , USB , Composite video output
Input Device Type	Game pad – Integrated
Total Expansion Slots(Free)	1 Memory Stick Micro (M2)
Battery	Rechargeable – Lithium ion
Battery life	3 to 6 hours
Package contents	Sony PSP Go, AC adaptor, a USB chord, Media GO software and an instruction manual
Manufacture Warranty	One year limited warranty

The Nintendo DS has traded higher than a hundred million devices all over the world since its initial release four and half years ago, hardening the company’s product as the all time popular easily moveable handheld console. It also crosses the most well known Sony PlayStation Portable (PSP), it is well known commercial-grade winner and its sales of almost fifty million.The third loop of the Nintendo DS and it was primitively published in Nov 2004, is called as Nintendo DSI. By altering the device’s boiler suit pattern and widely improving its screen performance, the company has refreshed the model as DS Lite in January 2006.

Rumours that propagated about the second design came true when Nintendo has announced its latest and mostly believable last retrograde from the Nintendo DSI organisation. This acclivity added two VGA minute resolution cameras, increased the screen size to be slightly larger, and an SD card expansion slot to the portable console. The slot called Game Boy Advance which was encountered in both of the earlier designs has been removed in the latest design.

The Nintendo DSI is offering a great deal of ground breaking media lineaments and the on-line practicality that is ensuring the purchase of it by the user Nintendo DS Lite who may think twice about advancing to the latest version. The users of original DS version also should undoubtedly shift to new version, and those who are still making thoughts about purchasing original DS, the new Nintendo DSI is a good way to go through.

Design:

Lustreless Rubberised Outer Layer:
If you have used or own the DS Lite, the foremost matter you will discover about DSI is that its firmness. You will unquestionably sense that it is more full bodied. That also says that it is no longer cloggier because both liberate fairly below half a pound. The new DSI spreads over with no lustre, contains almost rubbery outer layer, whereas the DS Lite is surfaced with glistening plastic. Though it is not muled during testing, it seems to be mostly prostrate to such decorative abrasions. In the terms of size, the DSI is just 4 millimetres slenderer than DS Lite and also just 5 millimetres wider. The DSI is out in several colours like white, blue, pink, red and black.

Relocation of the Lights:
Next to that, you would not detect much difference in visual aspect. A band of tierce lights are placed along the left side hinge of the new DSI instead of the two lights on right hinge of DS Lite. Now they are also tagged around, with symbolisations of power, charging and Wi-Fi connectivity.

Bouncy with More Click Buttons:
As Nintendo preferred for the pushes that clink more, every button on the DSI has been changed, which is an absolute contrast to the gentle feel you experienced on the DS Lite. The pressing motion is less for A, B, X and Y as they are not that deep as they were earlier. In the same way the R and L buttons are also now more bouncy and in result you need very minute attempt to make them function. It was found very hard to compress the start and select buttons particularly in DS Lite though; they too were same as the other buttons. You will feel the same kind of click reactivity when you move along the D-pad. The D-pad of DS Lite is found to be somewhat looser, which is a carbon replicate of that match detected on the Nintendo Wii remote.

Resettled Power Button:
The power press is now relocated to the underside left from the lower touch screen. A farseeing tap is provided to provide power to the device, on or off. And on the other hand, the little tap (whilst the DSI is in ON mode) gives you a gentle readjust, which cannot be done and not available on DS Lite.

Brightness and Colour Performance:
Though the inner camera is at present centred with its microphone merely to its adjacent right, the position of microphone remains unchanged. Especially when you shift backward and forward amongst the systems, the deuce screens of DSI Handheld Game console are perceptibly bigger. This says that you may not really discover immense betterments in total brightness and colour performance. The deuce stereo system speakers of the unit which are attached on both sides of the upper side screen, now appear to be brought down around one-half of an inch.

Removal of Game Boy Advance Slot:
You will determine some more obtrusive alterations on the exterior of the DSI Video Game Console. To list down, first of all, the Game Boy Advance’s expansion slot has been withdrawn, as a result of which the lovers of that hand held platform are away from fortune. Someone may trust that this deletion helped shrivel the thickness of the device, and wish that the alteration made good upgrade. Now we happily drop out the 4 millimetres to be capable of playing whatsoever, the Game Boy Advance game.

Volume Slider Changed to Push Button:
The audio slider is changed over to a push press arrangement in DSI and is located along the left face instead of the front left edge on the DS Lite, the head phone jack retains in the same old position. Though everyone will enjoy the alterations in buttons, we believe that it would be even more fun with slider rather than the new buttons. It is much more convenient to dumb the device just by sliding the slider with thumb, instead of holding the button for few seconds for the same thing. On the right bezel, the SD card expansion slot of the device is placed.

Two 0.3 Mega Pixel Cameras:
As brought up in the beginning, the new Nintendo DSI Gaming Console comprises of deuce 0.3 mega pixel cameras, in which one is positioned along the internal hinge and other is placed on the external front cover. While the external camera is alive, a pink LED light glows out. The perpendicular squarely logo of DS in plastic which is found on DS Lite and located on the outer casing is also deserted.

Variation in Stylus Size:
The Nintendo provides you with an extra stylus which is mounted on the rear location similar to DS Lite. You will be fond of the DSI’s stylus which has been increased in size and raised up by another 4 millimetres.

Features:

Updated Firmware and Interface:
Out and away, the most important modification on the DSI is the modified firmware and interface which is undivided to the unit, apart from the cameras. You would not be capable of upgrading your master DS and DS Lite to the novel DSI’s experience.

Permits Access to Several Media and Online Applications:
The fresh firmware permits you to move to snaps and music, which also includes several media together with online coverings. The device’s design is mostly like Nintendo Wii’s feel, where assorted transmission channels and coverings can be moved through and propelled around. You can doubtlessly fill the great deal of white spaces available with the downloaded games or even using the coverings from the DSI shop.

Internal Memory and SD Card:
You can save the photos taken by the camera using DSI camera apps either along the device’s inner 256MB of memory or onto an SD card. And the new DSI also abides the SDHC cards that have a storage capacity of more than 2 GB. There are several lens choices constructed in to the applications, apart from capturing schematic photos. These consequences can, not simply be plucked while you are taking the snaps, but as well later after you have already captured them. Even a face identification technology has been included, which can be used to add few effects, for instance it embosses your own face also with Mario moustache or apply you a funny pig nose. There is abundant sport to be enjoyed even in the frame characteristics, you can place your human face over anything you film or you want to.

DSI Sound Application:
By using powerful tools and included comfortable to usage tools you can record the sound and edit it by using the DSI Sound apps. You are given options to increment and reduce the pitch or speed, and you can even use pre-installed sound filtrates that transmutes your recorded sections. These segments could also be saved either on to the SD card or on to internal memory. The DSI Sound apps provided permits you act up on your own music and even you can even deform it. But nevertheless, currently the device is capable of playing only AAC files. Regrettably the MP3 and some other audio data file fans would not be able to enjoy this application. In order to boot, you will also not be able to save your own edited music.

Pictochat and DS Download:
You will be able to find a few intimate fronts in the interface of DSI, like Pictochat, which is a way to chit chat and extract from local DS systems, and DS download act persists integral. You can approach download act for synchronising up the games along with the local DS systems. With most of the models of the DS device, the DSI system is capable of playing.

The Online or Wi-Fi Connectivity:
The DSI holds the capability of linking with any 802.11 b or any g Wi-Fi router or any other hot spot. You will find it oddly adequate hard to link with a higher security than WEP. All those settings in real are inhumed inside the system, pushing you to select from the “Advanced Settings” over the main “Internet Connection Settings” screen. We are not certain why it is made very difficult to discover this practicality, but by utilising connexions 1-3, would not permit you to connect to larger than WEP. You could also manually arrange a connection through the more encryption like WPA or WPA2, by accessing the advanced menu. You will just need to insert security key, when you are capable of scanning towards hot spots which confirm the encryption over WEP. The DSI can connect to AOSS, in case your own router affirms it. You will be granted an easy internet connection to the DSI by utilising the option Wi-Fi USB connector of Nintendo, which is sold separately.

The Nintendo DSI Shop:

DSI equivalent to the WiiWare:
The handheld equivalent called as DSI shop has been developed after the achievement of Wii Virtual Console by Nintendo and its WiiWare Platform. Nintendo explicated that this is an online heart to download games of DSI only and apps which are constructed by the first base or third base party developers. The Nintendo will provide you with an active time of diversity of titles, in which some uses DSI camera in games. The pricing structures of all these provided titles vary from costless to one thousand DSI points. And also as an incentive, Nintendo also offers free 1000 points to use for any users who visit DSI shop at times of certain offers. Also, since the outlet had been launched, you will also be offered with a free web browser.

Nintendo Points for DSI Shop:
An interface really alike to the channel of Wii Shopping will be greeting you once you successfully enter into DSI shop. Though the Nintendo points cannot be transmitted, you can use them in both the shops. You can also add points by either using your credit card or shop-brought Nintendo points card. And you will find several paths to surf the usable titles, for instance, through title or even through price.

Sensible Downloading Speeds:
Downloading speed upon the DSI shop are very sensible, things proceeded by rather fleetly. That says that you must observe that the Internet activity in spades have virtual affect on the battery life, which more concerned than whatsoever earlier lineament of DSI.

Opera Powered Web Browser:
Opera powered web browser is one among the primary free apps provided. Even though, you would not be able to watch any of the videos or view any of the flash application in the least, it functions substantially adequate.

Transfer to DSI Internal Memory:
You should make a note that downloaded apps and acts cannot be played directly from the SD card. Firstly you must copy the game and application into the DSI’s inner memory and then can play them.

Performance:

Doubled Microprocessor Size:
Nintendo DSI Handheld Game console have as well obtained some hardware amendments, under the cap. The chief processor size has been doubled to 133 MHz, to that of 67 MHz discovered within the earlier DS Lite. DSI’s RAM has been multiplied by four, making it 16MB from its initial 4MB. But still, do not allow these digits sap you. No big variation in functioning among the systems has been detected when the same game is played. We suppose that this upgrade in design is just to fulfil the hardware requirements of cameras. It is said that Nintendo has suggested at DSI “enhanced” games, the titles provided can be played upon whatever DS, still you will be supplied with more features when you play it on DSI.

Less Competent DSI Battery Life:
Nintendo itself has accepted that DSI’s battery is less competent with that of DS Lite’s, which provides functioning time of 19 hours in the lowliest setting of screen brightness. Alternatively, DSI battery is capable of holding charging for approximately 9-14 hours, which depends on the brightness of the screen and power appetite features like cameras. During the tests conducted over the DSI battery, nothing is found dissatisfying about its battery life, but the DS Lite utilisers might discover the slender growth in frequency of the charging .

Frustrating Pirated Software:

It is no more confidential that hijacked software used to be a big trouble for DS Lite. Several hacked cartridges are discovered on the Internet, which allows playing illicitly downloaded games. Now the DSI for once discovered a path to frustrate them and also profits you through its updateable firmware.

Service and Support:

A Limited Warranty of one year is provided by Nintendo to its DSI.

Contents of the Box:

Nintendo DSI Console, Stylus, AC Adapter, one lithium ion battery, instruction manuals and warranty are provided in the packed box of DSI console.

Verdict:

As the new DSI is the third loop of the cycle DS system, it left a doubt, who needs to buy it? Possessors of original DS, better doubtlessly upgrade to DSI. The modifications in design, amendments in size of the screen and brightness paired with the accession to DSI shop are more than adequate rationalities to accept immerse. That also says that the current users of DS Lite should also take a look at it. The DSI shop is the fullest reason for up-gradation and you will have to determine if it is an adequate bonus. And naturally if you do not own any of the new DS systems, this will be the best choice. Though it is a bit expensive than present DS Lite, it is of good value. The unit is definitely a further step in the way of iPhone and iPods which have accession to outlets for downloading acts and apps. One matter in reality is doubtless, the Nintendo DSI is the manufacturer’s most challenging and also solidly constructed portable device up to date.

Nintendo DSI Handheld Console – Technical Specification Details

Manufacturer	Nintendo
Model Name	DSI
Form factor	Handheld
Dimensions (H x W x D)	2.9 x 5.4 x 0.7 inches
Weight	7.5 oz
Display Type	LCD display – 3.25″ TFT active matrix-Colour-Integrated
Display Colour Support	260000 colours
Display Features	Touch Screen
Available Enclosure Colours	White, blue, pink, red and black
Colour Support	Yes
Included Games	The Aly and AJ Adventure
Media Type	Cartridge, SD Memory Card
Significant Features	AAC playback, Built-in microphone, built-in two VGA digital cameras
Processor Type	ARM9 134 MHz
Built-in Speakers	Yes
Sound output mode	Stereo
Connectivity Features	IEEE 802.11
Input Device Type	4-way cross keypad – Integrated – 6 buttons
Total Expansion Slots(Free)	1 Nintendo DS cartridge slot, 1 SD Memory card
Battery	1 x Game console battery – Rechargeable – Lithium ion
Capacity	840 mAh – 14 hours
Package Particulars	Nintendo DSI Console, Stylus, AC Adapter, one lithium ion battery, instruction manuals and warranty.
Manufacture Warranty	One year limited warranty

When Nintendo initially announced its release of the DS handheld, all that the people were aware of was just that it had two displays and then over the next few months, more and more of new feature speculations started pouring in like touch screen, stylus, 802.11 wireless capabilities, post- E3 redesign and even Voice Over IP compatibility came in. And all these features culminated in the announcement of the console’s price tag too. Though it is true that there are many other gaming consoles that costs much higher than this console but does much lesser, we still have the feeling that Nintendo has added these features just to fill in the column on “Features” in the console’s specifications. So let us see if the final product lives up to the expectations and the price tag.

Not an ultra portable console:

At the very first look at the Nintendo DS Handheld Console , the thing that strikes you apart from the silver sleek design is its two LCD displays. The Nintendo DS has roughly got the same size of the original GameBoy Advance, but its clam shell like design makes the device look bigger. Unlike the SP which was an ideal example of the portable gaming console, which would easily slide inside any pocket, the DS can be carried around only in your back pocket or your shoulder bag. Yet another example of a very portable console was the Tamagotchi. Though the size has been increased, the device is not that bulky, it weighs just 275 grams. Since you will be using either the thumb pad or the stylus, the device has to be held with both your hands. However, the additional weight can be easily managed. Though the directional pad, face and shoulder buttons are all easily reachable, that doesn’t really stop you from wanting a more sinewy unit.

Buttons and controls in Nintendo DS:

The following is the list of controls of the device from left to right: volume control, cartridge slot for GBA, the front of the device is occupied by the headphone and microphone connectors. In the rear houses the shoulder buttons, the DS game slot and an AC adaptor slot. By having a dual slot, the device has retained its compatibility with all the existing GBA games, but the device can also accept the latest smaller DS game cards. On opening the DS in the front, the top panel hosts the main LCD display together with the stereo speakers, while the bottom panel sports a power button, directional pad and touch screen together with the 6 functional buttons that include A, B, X, Y, Select and Start. Two pen shaped styluses come with the package, one slides into the DS body in a PDA-style. This pen like stylus works better while drawing and writing messages in a PicoChat and the thumb stylus extremely good at the time of playing games.

Displays and sound in Nindendo DS Handheld:

The two displays, each have a resolution of 256 x 192 and 260,000 colours. The display is simply glare free even when the top screen is pivoted as far as it can go and both the displays seem to work seamlessly when the top screen is slightly tilted. Both the displays are terrific and you will not be able to find any of the eerie white glow seen in the GBA SP’s display that is front lit and the backlighting of the DS makes the graphics outstanding. The game’s beautiful full motion video sequences seem to take complete advantage of both the screens. One of the major advantages of elongated form factor is that, the stereo speakers work in a great fashion. There is a very clear separation of notes between the left and right speakers and it has very well done surround sound effects.

The first few steps:

The first time you turn your Nintendo DS Console on, the console asks the gamer to input a variety of details that includes your name, the current time and date, your favourite colour, that turns into your background colour by default and your birthday. It saves your birthday to offer you with a pleasant surprise on that special day of yours. Once this information has been inputted, the user is greeted to an extremely user-friendly interface that gives the gamer access to a Nintendo DS game, DS Download play for multiplayer games, run PictoChat or launch a GBA game.

Nintendo DS Features:

The DS Gaming Console runs on two powerful ARM9 and ARM7 CPUs running at 67Mhz and 33MHz respectively. The unit has 4 megs of memory and a BIOS. Another impressive feature is that the unit also has the ability to download software from another DS unit which means that some two player games only require one cartridge to play between two or more people.

Pico Chat:

The Pico Chat comes in as a very attractive distraction for the gamers. This application has a lot of interesting features that combine DS’s wireless features and its touch screen capabilities. Once the program is started, a number of available rooms are listed. Typing in the virtual keyboard in the bottom of the touch screen with the stylus is quite natural. The only issue with the pen is that, its tip is too broad to even think of any intricate drawings.

The multi-player mode:

When the multi player mode is used, the DS player surpassed its rated 9m in outdoors and in fact, it manages to go beyond 45m. But through the walls, the range is a little shorter and this is the case when the game cuts out in just 9m. In the Metroid and PicoChat applications, you will be indicated the type of connection you are in with the help of a mobile phone like small signal indicator. Even with only a single signal indicator, the multiplayer games were seamless and lag free. When everything seemed to be nice and happy, we were put down by a bad news, the older GBA multiplayer games will not play head to head over the wireless connection and with the absence of link cable port, you will not be able to wire bond to the older GBAs or the Nintendo GameCube.

Package contents:

The package of the Nintendo DS Handheld Gaming Console including the Metroid Prime: Hunters, Nintendo’s PictoChat software (full version), two styluses that is pen-shaped, a wrist strap that can also be toggled as a thumb stylus and an AC adapter similar to the one found in GBA SP.

Battery life:

Since the Nintendo DS has come out in the strong competing market with Sony’s PSP, it is important that we take a note of its battery life too. The DS managed a game time of about six hours and 40 minutes. The low battery indicator comes on in about 6 hours mark and from then on, in 40 minutes, the device ran out of juice. The sizeable battery life of the console is achieved thanks to the lithium-ion battery, which takes around 4 hours for the battery to be fully charged, a relatively meager price you pay for portable gaming. Yet another smart idea would be to close the unit when not in use putting the system to a sleep mode thereby maximizing battery life.

Warranty:

Nintendo offers the DS console a standard one year warranty.

Verdict:

In conclusion, the Nintendo DS sure is an amazing console that brings about an evolution in portable gaming. On the flip side, the console can get kind of heavy at times with continuous gaming, but then that would be a very meager price to pay in comparison to what you get out of the console. The DS has got the real flavour of Nintendo within it. It has got the characteristics that suit the console’s long list of games. This gaming console challenges developers to utilize the touchscreen, dual display and microphone capabilities to the fullest extent possible. Although the majority of first generation games are aimed at the younger gaming market, there are quite a few adult titles in the market allowing a mature gamer to take full advantage of this console. This game console with the funky design is worth laying your hands on. But if you are asking the question that if you could go for PSP or Nintendo, then we would definitely advice you to go for the PSP. And the justification we have is that, the PSP is much ahead of the DS in terms of graphics, audio performance, display quality and even the attire. And the PSP can also play movies and MP3 tracks for you. Overall, the DS is just not about having the best graphics or even the fastest processor; it is fully about having fun.

Nintendo DS Video Game Console – Specifications, Features

Manufacturer	Nintendo
Game Console name	Nintendo DS
Console type	Handheld
Dimensions(H x W x D)	149 x 85 x 29mm
Game Media type	Cartridge
Sound Output Mode	Stereo
Display	2 Backlit, 260,000 colour, 3″ diagonal reflective TFT LCD screens. Lower one is a touch screen. 2D and 3D video acceleration
Display resolution	256×192 pixels
Features	One ARM7 processor and One ARM9 processor. 4 megs memory.
Audio	Built in stereo speakers with virtual surround sound, mic and headphone jack
Software bundle	PictoChat wireless messaging application. Clock and calendar. Metroid Prime: First Hunt (first person shooter) demo included.
Game Cartridges supported	Two slots: one for Game Boy Advance games and another for DS game cartridges. The DS is not compatible with Game Boy Color and earlier games.
Modem	No
Ethernet	No
Bluetooth	No
WiFi	Yes
Maximum data transfer rate	11 Mbps
Battery	Rechargeable lithium ion
Box contents	Nintendo DS with battery installed, two styli, wrist strap with “thumb stylus” attached at the end, instruction booklet, charger and Metroid Prime DS demo cartridge
Warranty	Limited 1 year warranty

Overview:

Pros:

• Compact
• Good viewing angle
• Backlit display
• Rechargeable battery
• Backward compatible

Cons:

• Adaptor for headphones must be bought separately
• No control for brightness and contrast

Review:

The word “Game Boy” itself makes most of us think of kids as this hand held gaming machine of Nintendo has been designed in such a way that it is primarily marketed towards the kids. But the fact is, the Game Boy can make adults fall in love with it too. We know because we love it too. Having fiddled with the original Game Boy, the Game Boy pocket and Game Boy colour, we were as excited as we would be a night before a flight to a holiday destination when we first read about the news on the release of the Game Boy Advance SP.

The Game Boy history:

Before we take the discussion more deep about the Game Boy advance SP console, we would like to refresh your memories about the original Game Boy. The original version was first introduced in the year 1988 in Japan and the very next year in USA. This gaming console had a gray scale display of resolution 160 x 144 pixels. It ran on an eight bit Z80 based processor with four channel sounds. Its source of power was four AA batteries, having a battery life of around 15 to 30 hours. The next generation model called the “Game Boy Pocket” was introduced in the year 1996, which had a smaller physic and made use of two AAA batteries to run for 10 hours. Then, in the year 1999, a much improvised version on all areas was released, called “Game Boy Colour“. This console had a 160×144 pixels colour display, which was capable of displaying 56 colours. It had 8Mhz Z80 based processor, 4 channel sound and ran 13 hours on 2 AA batteries. A couple of years later, the Game Boy Advance was released with some radical changes. This version of the gaming console had a larger display with a higher resolution of 240×160 pixels with a horizontal layout and a faster processor. And the next version is the Nintendo Game Boy Advance SP, which we will be discussing in detail below. This version has finally included most of the features that we had been waiting for years.

What the “SP” has got in store for us:

If you are wondering what the “SP” in the name stands for, then think no more, it simply means “Special”. Though there is not much difference with the performance of the, GBA SP, it has included a lot of other interesting tweaks like the compact folding design, rechargeable batteries and finally a backlight for the display that had been crying for one for years. These are the main changes and other than this, the major functionalities and features remains to be the same as the original Advance and SP too has the capability to play the entire library of the Game Boy games.

Flip in design:
Design wise, the Nintentdo GBA SP reminds us of the original Game Boy, which again had to be folded into half. But this time around, it is more compact, mature and its flip screen design is appealing for both kids and adults. This model is very compact when folded and can be easily carried around in your pockets. When the unit is kept closed, it makes a perfect square and resembles a super tiny laptop. It has curvy edge and the case is quite sturdy. This model is available in platinum, chrome, maroon, pink, black and cobalt colours. The game cartridge is available in the bottom front of the unit and unlike the other versions, where the carts stick out about 1.25 inches, here it fits flush. Though they look a little awkward, they do not hinder while you are gaming.

Buttons and controls in Game Boy Advance SP:

There are two spring loaded left and right buttons on the shoulders of the GBA SP and the application of these buttons depends entirely on the game cartridge that is loaded on the slot. One of the coolest features that had been added to SP is that, on pressing these buttons the display can be changed from regular to wide screen format, a feature which is not possible in the older games with just 160×144 pixels. When the console is opened, you will find the display, buttons and the speaker grill. Though the screen is not held closed with any latch, it does not fall open in its own even when it is shook or held upside down. And when the display is opened, it folds back to approximately 180 degrees, a great viewing angle for playing. The layout of the buttons is same as that of the classic console. This clamshell design allows you to adjust its angle easily and also protects the LCD from getting scratched.

The four way navigational pad is placed towards the left and the A/B buttons directly across it. On top of these buttons is a screen light toggle and towards the bottom are the start and stop buttons. Though the control positioning is similar to that of the original GBA, the left and right shoulder buttons are smaller. Playing games on the Nintendo Game Boy Advance SP Game Console will be a great experience and there will not be any comfort issues as they give a very good and tactile feedback with easy presses.

A small slider switch is available towards the left of the console and is used to control the volume of the speaker. The right side of the console sports the power switch and two status LEDs. One of the LED acts a battery indicator. It glows green when the unit is switched on and turns to red when battery drops to 30% to 20%. The other LED glows amber when the unit is charging and turns off once the charging is complete. The rear of the device has the AC adapter and External Extension connectors, where the AC adaptor doubles as a headphone jack. It will not look familiar to you too as you will have to buy an external adaptor that will not cost much in order to use the GBA SP with headphones. This adaptor will provide you with a standard 3.5mm jack, which will allow any standard earphones to be plugged in. This is one of the major blots with the design because, this kind of set up will not allow you to charge the device and listen to it via the headphone at the same time. The External Extension connector is used to link a Game Boy via a link cable, for the sake of multiplayer games and also for interacting with the device.

Finally!!! A backlight:

Deny No one can ever deny the fact that the original Game Boy enjoyed an enormous success and sold millions of units around the world. But an equally undeniable fact is that anybody who has ever played with it, has cursed it for that fact that it does not have an illuminated display. Adding backlight to the SBA SP’s display is the best feature that SP has been upgraded with. This means that now you will be able to enjoy playing games in any lighting condition. You no longer need to struggle with an overhead light in low light conditions as in the case of the original console. But we just wish if it was a little brighter and has some way to adjust the brightness and contrast. The only adjustment that you will be able to make for now is just On/Off.

Performance of GBA SP:

Like the original GBA, the SP runs on a 32-bit RISC-CPU with embedded memory. The performance is obliviously, same as that of the original Game Boy. And the performance is the same in all situations unless the gaming console is taken outside in the bright sunlight. As with the SP version, you will be able to make use of the front light. The GBA SP has got a wide spectrum of games that would satisfy a wide range of gamers.

Sound:
As far as the sound is concerned, the front speaker is loud enough for most of the tasks. But if you are in a noisy environment, then you will require headphones.

Battery life:
The battery life is quite decent. The original GBA allows you to play for days together on two AA batteries. Though the SP’s battery does not endure for as long as those of its predecessor, Nintendo assures you up to 10 hours will illumination and about 18 hours without having to recharge. It takes about 3 hours to fully charge the battery.

Verdict:

Having included an illuminated display, Nintendo has finally fixed the biggest flaw of the original Game Boy Advance. If you are already having a Game Boy Advance and really do not care about having a lit display, then there is no need for you to update with the SP. But if you do not own one, then this is the best choice as it is compact and fun. The console has already proven that it is not just for kids and so, adults can have a great deal of fun too.

Check reviews of Nintendo GameCube, Nintendo Wii Fit in our website.

Game Boy Advance SP – Technical Specifications, Features

Manufacturer	Nintendo
Model Name	Game Boy Advance SP
Game console type	Handheld
Dimensions (W x D x H)	84.6x82x24.3mm
Weight	0.14 kg
Colours available	Platinum, chrome, maroon, pink, black and cobalt
Display resolution	240x160pixels
Data width	32 bits
RAM installed	0.25 MB
Game media type	Cartridge
Sound output mode	Stereo
Input device type	D-Pad + 6 buttons
Battery	Built in rechargeable Lithium Ion