When I first tried the Nintendo 3DS last June at Nintendo’s E3 event, I was amazed. The 3-D worked perfectly–I saw Mario and Link moving through an immersive world. And the other features I tried were just as innovative: two cameras to take 3-D pictures, gyroscope and accelerometer for motion controls, Augmented Reality games.
At Nintendo’s press event on Wednesday, more great features were shown, including: the system’s built-in activity log, with pedometer; a coin reward system that’s similar to Xbox achievements for purchasing extras in games; a much improved online store, online play, and online updates for games. And just as the Nintendo DS allowed game developers to use the touchscreen and microphone for interesting gameplay, 3DS allows its game developers to use the camera and motion controls for new experiences–I got to aim Link’s slingshot by moving around my arms!
The Nintendo 3DS is an astounding game machine and will sell millions for Nintendo, but that will be despite $250 pricetag and its flaws as a gadget. It’s a device built for kids, not gadget geeks who want the latest and greatest tech.
Read the full article at Fast Company.