Nintendo set to submerge gamers in ‘pocket-size’ 3D entertainment.
The 3DS console, which features full 3D graphics without the need for special glasses will launch in Australia on March 31st at a price point of AU$349.95.
A variety of pre-loaded games, applications and features, are also included such as Nintendo 3DS Camera. Nintendo 3DS has three cameras. One camera points at the user, while two additional cameras point outward. These two outer cameras take photos in 3D.
Nintendo 3DS, when put into Sleep Mode, can act as a pedometer, while letting users earn Play Coins for the steps they take that can then be traded in for additional content in compatible games and applications. By accessing the Activity Log, users can check their steps as well as their play time.
With Nintendo 3DS Sound, users can enjoy sound-manipulation tools or enjoy listening to their MP3 or AAC music files. An upgraded Internet browser will also be available via a system update.
Besides this the Nintendo 3DS is backwards compatible and will play Nintendo DS game cards with their original 2D visuals. It also includes a slot for an SD Memory Card ‘adding more games couldn’t be easier’.
During the launch window (between the March 31 launch date and the E3 Expo in early June) more than 30 games will be available to Nintendo 3DS owners. These include Nintendo-created games like Pilotwings Resort(TM), which has players soaring acrobatically over iconic Wuhu Island; nintendogs(TM) + cats, a new version of the Nintendo DS classic with a feline enhancement; and Steel Diver(TM), a side-scrolling submarine adventure that gives the illusion that the player is peering into an aquarium.
Other Nintendo 3DS games in the works include The Legend of Zelda(TM): Ocarina of Time 3D, Star Fox(TM) 64 3D, Kid Icarus(TM): Uprising and new installments in Mario Kart(TM), Animal Crossing(TM) and Paper Mario(TM) series.
Nintendo payed special attention to the console’s built in Augmented Reality cards. Players need only place a small card on a surface and point the Nintendo 3DS’ 3D camera towards it to see the card come alive. The Nintendo 3DS will ship with 6 of these cards in the box.
For 3DS details and updates visit Nintendo3DS.
Nintendo 3DS will be available for public play for the first time in Australia on Feb 10th between 6-10pm in both Melbourne and Sydney Myer stores.
