About the Nintendo DS
The Nintendo DS is a hand-held gaming console created by Nintendo, with two screens — the bottom of which is touch-sensitive — as well as the typical d-pad and four control buttons (that, depending on the game, provide various functionality and interactivity). Built in to the console is also a microphone, and speakers for a surround sound effect.
The DS was first released in 2004 and was so popular that in January 2006, Nintendo had to release a formal apology in Japan because the console had sold out. No Nintendo system had ever sold out in Japan before. As of April 2007, over 40 million units have been sold worldwide.
The touch-sensitive screen is a key feature in the popularity of the DS; accepting input from the included stylus or the player's fingers/thumb it allows interaction with in-game elements to create a more involved experience.
One of the other innovative features of the Nintendo DS is the built in Wi-Fi connectivity which allows players to link up via hotspots or wireless modems to the special Nintendo Wi-Fi service. This connects players around the globe, allowing them to interact in a multi-player fashion as if they were sat next to each other. There is also a version of the Opera browser available enabling DS users to browse online.
The unit accepts two types of game cartridge: the smaller, flat proprietary DS ROM cards and the older Game Boy Advance Cartridges. However, when playing GBA games only one of the two screens is used (players can choose which in the system options). Some DS games are able to detect the presence of specific GBA cartridges allowing extra content to be unlocked in-game.
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