Nintendo 3DS

[theeboredone]

Yeah...my cuz still has the original DS...and that thing is ugly compared to my DSLite. Though the 3DS looks real nice as well. It's actually the same size as the Lite I believe.

 

[SupaSairentoZ7℠]

All I need is the 3DS and probably a protector Kit and that is about it.

 

[Sariku]

I was kind of thinking about getting a protector kit, but I probably won't? I'm not too sure yet... I guess it depends on the price.

 

[ryuu seika]

I preferred the original DS. It wasn't as square and didn't have that slightly slippery glossy feeling. That and the GBA games actually fitted into the port properly.

 

[Sariku]

The original DS kills me. It was okay at first, but after playing with a DSi? The DSi is the way to play. I hate the DS lite. It feels awful and it's too... I don't know how to describe it, but playing on it doesn't feel smooth enough. Plus the d-pad is garbage in comparison to the DSi's.

I can't find any screen protectors for the 3DS... :S

 

[GwJ]

I'm taking out 350 today. 250 for the 3DS, 40 for SSFIV, 35 for Pokemon White. White might be 40, but it's still covered in the 350 just in case.

 

[metalmonstar]

Just speculation, but who thinks the 3DS will be supply constrained on launch and will sell for a lot more over ebay?

 

[F8AL]

Just speculation, but who thinks the 3DS will be supply constrained on launch and will sell for a lot more over ebay?

I do. Expect to see a lot of 'em on eBay for hundreds of dollars more. (Like the PS3 launch, people paid over $1,000 for one.)

 

[theeboredone]

I mean, don't consoles on launch day in general get sold out, or end up being sold for a high price on ebay?

Lol, I just thought about how one guy waited in a long line to get a PS3...but he was a Sony hater, so after he bought it, he came out of the store, and had some guy record him while he threw it on the ground and destroyed it lol.

 

[GwJ]

I saw that video. Everyone thought he was a total a-hole for doing that, because it meant one less guy got to play a PS3 for a while. It was funny as hell though.

 

[F8AL]

Wasn't that video fake?

 

[Sariku]

Wasn't that video fake?

No, it was not.

And that's the reason I'm getting it on launch. Nintendo has only announced 5,000,000 units for the 3DS, and said that for the first two months NA will only get about 1,500,000 - 2,000,000.

 

[GwJ]

Sariku, that's 5 million for the whole world right? Nintendo's really stretching this launch out.

 

[theeboredone]

Now I'm starting to wonder if companies purposely make less to attract more customers. It's what my theory on the Wii was the entire time.

 

[F8AL]

Now I'm starting to wonder if companies purposely make less to attract more customers. It's what my theory on the Wii was the entire time.

Yes, it's a way to increase demand.

 

[Sariku]

So I went to GameStop today to throw down my payment for SSFIV3D before I changed my mind, and they told me that the Best Buy around the corner has a 3DS. So I quickly ran to the Best Buy to try it out. My first impression?

I only got to play it for five minutes, but first off I guess I should say that yes, the 3D does work. It successfully showed me images in 3D without glasses. Unfortunately, in only five minutes, I could not find a 3D sweet spot and I left the store wing my eyes in a lot of pain... I actually had to go to sleep when I got home because I felt like it was a bad idea to look at my computer screen or a television.

So it was a very "ehhh" first impression. I hope I can get used to it when I start playing my own copy on Sunday. But the 3DS felt good. The slide pad was great and the buttons felt great to push. Oh, plus it looks extremely, extremely sexy.

And the game was Pilot Wings, in case anyone cares.

 

[theeboredone]

Well everyone is saying it takes a good 20-40 minutes to get adjusted to the 3D. But yeah, the sweet spot is what I'm concerned about most. When you are button mashing on a game like SF, the 3D will be going in and out.

 

[Sariku]

I didn't have any issue with the sweet spot, but maybe that was because it was stuck in the display thing..? I have no idea. lol.

 

[theeboredone]

Well I've already heard quite a few people say it sucks to play any games involving button mashing, or changing the angle of 3DS (accelerometer).

 

[Sariku]

Just turn 3D off. ^^;

 

[sakuraZaKi]

Yeah, I'd do that for the 60 fps - compared to that of the 30 fps in 3D.

 

[theeboredone]

Then it will just be the Nintendo DS with better graphics. I see a lot of potential in using the accelerometer + 3D. It can be badass.

 

[sakuraZaKi]

Believe me, I reeeeeally want to see the potential the 3DS holds.

I'm just worried about the quality of fast-paced games - fighters for example. I don't know if my eyes will start hurting from fast movement along with the already somewhat-straining 3D, but I still have to see this with my eyes though.

IMO, this is something worth being skeptical about. It's been that way ever since 3D was unable to show up on those YT recordings of last year's E3, and it already looked remarkable without it.

 

[Sariku]

Well, I hope the 3D grows on you sooner than later. Of course I wasn't able to find a good sweet spot yet, but the 3D seriously wrecked my eyes for a good few hours. >_<;

And I have SSFIV3DS preordred too, so I'll definitely give my opinion on that. Anyone else getting it?

 

[theeboredone]

Lol that's another reason why I don't get systems or consoles first. I prefer to spend a good amount of time with someone who already owns it or hearing people's opinions before I dish out 250 dollars >_>.

 

[Sariku]

Lol that's another reason why I don't get systems or consoles first. I prefer to spend a good amount of time with someone who already owns it or hearing people's opinions before I dish out 250 dollars >_>.

There is no thrill or excitement in that...

 

[UltiMario]

I'm going for it on launch day regardless of all the bad things I've heard about it. The good that I can see definately outweighs the bad that I hear.

 

[Youko]

The way I see it, the "bad" regarding the system can be pretty easily countered.

- "It's too expensive"
It's one thing to have money-johns and to not be able to afford it. It's another thing to say the device is "too expensive" for what it's offering. This is next-generation hardware. Those who say "it's more expensive than a Wii, so it's a ripoff" are morons, plain and simple. Five years is a long time, especially when the price has been discounted since then. When focus groups were recommending $300-$400 for the 3DS, you get a 2 GB SD card plus a bunch of bundled software, and Nintendo is bringing something new to the table once again, $250 is a pretty good deal, all things considered.

- "The launch lineup sucks"
Nintendo can't win in this situation. They're trying to show the vast third-party support they have with the onset of the system, and while those games are just not that good right now, how is that a knock against the system in the long run? What did the original DS lineup have that was a big seller, aside from Super Mario 64 (which most say was disappointing, too)? Are people just ignoring what games are already in the works for the system?

- "The battery life sucks"
Three-five hours on full 3D settings isn't ideal, sure. But when a device is trying to render two screens simultaneously in 3D mode, that's going to be a pretty big power suck. Few things, though: If you're on a long car trip, buy a car adapter or do something else. You have power outlets in your home/apartment - you can use them if you need to while playing. Also, if you're not playing your 3DS, charge it in the docking bay, plain and simple. The battery life isn't a big issue for me, because the most I've played a handheld in one sitting is only a few hours anyway. Treat the 3DS like a phone. You're going to be taking it with you, you're going to have to charge it overnight or during downtime. However, the most important part about the battery is that it is REMOVABLE. Nintendo could have easily gone the Apple route and said "once the internal battery dies, you're screwed, you have to get a new device." However, third-parties are now developing external batteries that greatly improve the battery life of the 3DS, at the cost of system bulk. Who knows if Nintendo will support battery replacements under their warranty?

- "The sweet spot is too small for me/I shake my handhelds"
Arms at 90º angles. Device 10-14" away from your eyes if you're on full 3D effect. And don't move your system around like a fool. Or turn the 3D off. Sure, you're not going to be playing games that use the gyroscope like Steel Diver or Face Raiders in public, where you'll look ridiculous moving your entire body with your arms locked. But it's not any of our problems if you don't have any self-control and like to tilt your handhelds uncontrollably. And did I mention you could just turn the 3D off?

- "The 3D hurts my eyes"
Then TURN. IT. OFF. Believe it or not, the slider is there for a reason.

- "Some features are missing"
Nintendo's eShop, improved web browser, and many more tweaks are expected for a massive firmware update in late May. Netflix on 3DS is planned for later this summer, but I've heard rumblings that Nintendo may be trying to push that up to the May update as well. Patience is always a good virtue to possess, especially in small doses.

- "I'll just wait for 3DS Lite"
You don't KNOW that's happening. Sure, it wouldn't be much of a surprise at all, given Nintendo's recent history, but if you're willing to miss games like Ocarina of Time, Paper Mario, Mario Kart, Star Fox, Metal Gear, and more to wait for something that MIGHT happen, that's your prerogative. Or you can be smart and get a two-year warranty from your retailer that will fully refund you for your 3DS if something like that does happen. Your call.

- "I'll just wait a few months and buy it with Zelda"
Good luck trying to find one. All indications so far are that we'll be seeing Wii-like supply/demand shortages. Income excuses aside, if you do eventually plan on getting one, the smartest thing to do would be to pre-order and purchase one at launch. Don't say you weren't warned.

- "There aren't any good features"
3D camera, improved connectivity with StreetPass/SpotPass and one friend code tethered to the system, 3D slider, backwards compatibility, bundled software, AR games, suspendable games...that whole "no glass required" thing...and more. No, you're right, this device is terrible.

- "NINTENDO SUX SONY RULEZ"
/trollin'
But I do wonder what kind of complaints will surface when we learn more about NGP. Not to mention if we'll learn from how these issues will be resolved and apply them to Sony's new device.


Anyway, my two cents.

 

[theeboredone]

The way I see it, the "bad" regarding the system can be pretty easily countered.

- "It's too expensive"
It's one thing to have money-johns and to not be able to afford it. It's another thing to say the device is "too expensive" for what it's offering. This is next-generation hardware. Those who say "it's more expensive than a Wii, so it's a ripoff" are morons, plain and simple. Five years is a long time, especially when the price has been discounted since then. When focus groups were recommending $300-$400 for the 3DS, you get a 2 GB SD card plus a bunch of bundled software, and Nintendo is bringing something new to the table once again, $250 is a pretty good deal, all things considered.

First of all, don't make the 2 GB SD card inclusion sound like it's some god send. You can just get that anywhere for 5 bucks >_>. Also, while I am aware there are some mini games and what not included, the device as a whole is not a good "all in one" kind of deal. It's not something I'd be willing to watch movies on, let alone use as a camera with. So in the end, I'm basically buying a system just for the games when today's generation of electronics emphasize more than just one use.

- "The launch lineup sucks"
Nintendo can't win in this situation. They're trying to show the vast third-party support they have with the onset of the system, and while those games are just not that good right now, how is that a knock against the system in the long run? What did the original DS lineup have that was a big seller, aside from Super Mario 64 (which most say was disappointing, too)? Are people just ignoring what games are already in the works for the system?

At least there was a first party game for the DS. Regardless, I don't see no harm in waiting until the better games come out.

- "The battery life sucks"
Three-five hours on full 3D settings isn't ideal, sure. But when a device is trying to render two screens simultaneously in 3D mode, that's going to be a pretty big power suck. Few things, though: If you're on a long car trip, buy a car adapter or do something else. You have power outlets in your home/apartment - you can use them if you need to while playing. Also, if you're not playing your 3DS, charge it in the docking bay, plain and simple. The battery life isn't a big issue for me, because the most I've played a handheld in one sitting is only a few hours anyway. Treat the 3DS like a phone. You're going to be taking it with you, you're going to have to charge it overnight or during downtime. However, the most important part about the battery is that it is REMOVABLE. Nintendo could have easily gone the Apple route and said "once the internal battery dies, you're screwed, you have to get a new device." However, third-parties are now developing external batteries that greatly improve the battery life of the 3DS, at the cost of system bulk. Who knows if Nintendo will support battery replacements under their warranty?

I own a android phone, and on average shell out 36 hours before a charge. It's not a matter of having the activity to charge it whenever you're not using it, it's a confidence in your system that you don't NEED to charge it after every 3- 5 hours of use. And you say the battery life isn't a big issue for you. What about the kids who spend hours upon hours playing a game through one sitting? And why should I invest in another battery? Why should I shell out 20-30 bucks more for something Nintendo overlooked? Also, if something goes bad with it, you honestly think Nintendo will replace the battery? No, you're gonna have to go through the tedious work with the company that made it, pay for shipping, and get it back at least a week later.

- "The sweet spot is too small for me/I shake my handhelds"
Arms at 90º angles. Device 10-14" away from your eyes if you're on full 3D effect. And don't move your system around like a fool. Or turn the 3D off. Sure, you're not going to be playing games that use the gyroscope like Steel Diver or Face Raiders in public, where you'll look ridiculous moving your entire body with your arms locked. But it's not any of our problems if you don't have any self-control and like to tilt your handhelds uncontrollably. And did I mention you could just turn the 3D off?

Yes. We're all robots. We can all maintain the same position for hours upon play without moving or fidgeting around. Heck, I don't have to worry the angles changing due to the button mashing on fighter games, because I can telepathically send my input commands to the DS. People always move around to adjust themselves. It's foolish to think you can have this 90 degree, 10-14 inches away balogne going on throughout your entire playthrough. I don't want to be constantly adjusting or seeing my 3D going in and out due to the game I'm playing requires me to press buttons more often than a normal game.

And turning the 3D off takes away from uh...I dunno...the 3DS? Why should I just be content with turning the MAIN FEATURE off, because it's unstable with the game I want to play?

- "The 3D hurts my eyes"
Then TURN. IT. OFF. Believe it or not, the slider is there for a reason.

I've already said there is an adjustment period to this. Most say it takes anywhere from 30-45 minutes getting used to it. If there is one concern I have, it's that these 3D effects require more strain on your eyes. We'll see if any random stupid law suits or protests pop up claiming the 3DS damages your eyes.

- "Some features are missing"
Nintendo's eShop, improved web browser, and many more tweaks are expected for a massive firmware update in late May. Netflix on 3DS is planned for later this summer, but I've heard rumblings that Nintendo may be trying to push that up to the May update as well. Patience is always a good virtue to possess, especially in small doses.

Wait, I can be patient for this, but I can't be patient for waiting when the lines and hype die down?

- "I'll just wait for 3DS Lite"
You don't KNOW that's happening. Sure, it wouldn't be much of a surprise at all, given Nintendo's recent history, but if you're willing to miss games like Ocarina of Time, Paper Mario, Mario Kart, Star Fox, Metal Gear, and more to wait for something that MIGHT happen, that's your prerogative. Or you can be smart and get a two-year warranty from your retailer that will fully refund you for your 3DS if something like that does happen. Your call.

You're only fooling yourself if you think it's NOT happening. It WILL happen, and it's just a matter of when. You make it sound like these games will disappear off the shelves by the time a revision comes out. How about this? Instead of spending 40 dollars a pop per new release, I wait for a better 3DS that may also fix some features (the sensitive 3D angle), and then buy these games for a much cheaper price. Then I have that extra money to spend on other games I want, or whatever else I need going forward.

- "I'll just wait a few months and buy it with Zelda"
Good luck trying to find one. All indications so far are that we'll be seeing Wii-like supply/demand shortages. Income excuses aside, if you do eventually plan on getting one, the smartest thing to do would be to pre-order and purchase one at launch. Don't say you weren't warned.

Lol, it's not hard to find one if you know what to do. People were always clamoring about it was impossible to find the Wii even a year after it came out. I got one 9 months after doing some good internet research. Piece of cake. And this is ASSUMING there will be a shortage in stock. Don't forget, there is actually competition, although minor going on with portable systems. Iphones, Android, the NGP will be on Nintendo's territory as well. On top of that, portable systems don't sell as quickly or as much compared to their home counterparts.

- "There aren't any good features"
3D camera, improved connectivity with StreetPass/SpotPass and one friend code tethered to the system, 3D slider, backwards compatibility, bundled software, AR games, suspendable games...that whole "no glass required" thing...and more. No, you're right, this device is terrible.

Once again, it's just average when it comes to being an all in one device. For a portable game system, it's good. But what about if I want to listen to my music? Watch movies? Take good quality photos? What about the fact it's still only on WIFI, when the NGP claims to be having 3G or better support? All the features you listed are aimed towards gamers, and nothing else. And you can't tell me that's what the 3DS should be about, given like I said, today's generation of electronics are expanding on being used for more than just one thing.

- "NINTENDO SUX SONY RULEZ"
/trollin'
But I do wonder what kind of complaints will surface when we learn more about NGP. Not to mention if we'll learn from how these issues will be resolved and apply them to Sony's new device.

There will be issues with the NGP no doubt, but that's for another time.

There is no thrill or excitement in that...

Wow really? What kind of reasoning is that? Does money grow on trees for you? Look, I don't know if you were born to the heir of some big fortune, but a lot of us actually have to be aware of what we spend our money on. Especially given the status of our economy. I'm not going to just shell out 250 dollars for something I have yet to experience or get a good idea on. What if there is a defect? What if I don't like it? What if it's not what it is hyped up to be? In fact, there is NOTHING I buy without making sure it's something I absolutely want.

 

[Youko]

I can understand all your counterpoints, but your opinion on this matter seems to be that you aren't even interested in a 3DS purchase until substantial improvements are made because it simply doesn't live up to your expectations, considering what you think electronics should need to be able to do in this day in age. That's a personal choice of yours and there's no point in trying to argue it when it's something you seem very rooted in.

There are those of us that are excited with what the 3DS can bring to the table. You don't seem to be one of those people and that's a fine opinion to have. Have you checked out one of the demo stations yet at Best Buy? I'd give it a try for yourself instead of just going solely on what you read online. I'm not saying that it will change your mind, but a few hands-on minutes are pretty valuable when it comes to forming opinions on the system that don't start with "I've heard that."

My connection with the 3DS is a little more personal because I still have a DS Lite and I was lucky enough to try the 3DS last June and again last week. I was just personally tired of a lot of the "cons" that reviewers seemed to have with the system, when I thought there were acceptable work-arounds for a lot of them. I feel that's an easier way of assessing the situation, instead of doing the defensive, point-by-point, quoting breakdown.

 

[Sariku]

Wow really? What kind of reasoning is that? Does money grow on trees for you? Look, I don't know if you were born to the heir of some big fortune, but a lot of us actually have to be aware of what we spend our money on. Especially given the status of our economy. I'm not going to just shell out 250 dollars for something I have yet to experience or get a good idea on. What if there is a defect? What if I don't like it? What if it's not what it is hyped up to be? In fact, there is NOTHING I buy without making sure it's something I absolutely want.

Can you not have faith in Nintendo? They have yet to recently make a flop, and I don't think this is going to be one. I agree with Youko that you seem to just be against the 3DS in general because it's not perfect for you. Having a sensitive 3D angle isn't a flaw, nor is it something that "should be addressed." It's the technology. If you want to pay 100 dollars more for one that can do 3D from 400 miles away and underwater, then be my guest. I have self-control and am fine with the angle. I played with it. It's not that bad.

And if you're going to just dog on it, get out of the thread. Let people who are interested in it post here.

 

[Luigitoilet]

Actually, post all you want about the 3DS in here, be it negative or positive. Just because you don't share Sariku's opinion doesn't mean you shouldn't be able to talk about it.

 

[GwJ]

Yeah, I'd do that for the 60 fps - compared to that of the 30 fps in 3D.

The FPS doesn't go to 30 when you turn 3D on.

 

[Sariku]

The FPS doesn't go to 30 when you turn 3D on.

This.

@LuigiToilet: Shush, don't tell him that.

 

[theeboredone]

I can understand all your counterpoints, but your opinion on this matter seems to be that you aren't even interested in a 3DS purchase until substantial improvements are made because it simply doesn't live up to your expectations, considering what you think electronics should need to be able to do in this day in age. That's a personal choice of yours and there's no point in trying to argue it when it's something you seem very rooted in.

Given the fact that the newest HTC EVO to come out will also feature 3D, dual core processor, and enough overall power to play playstation roms, it's actually concerning to think what possibilites hold phones in terms of gaming. While I'm not a fan of Infinite Blade, the game looks great. Rage also looks ridiculous as well. If I can get something that can call, play mp3, watch movies, record and take photos in HD, have internet anywhere, and play games...and all for a similar investment...why wouldn't I buy that? Nintendo will thrive due to its reputation, but I feel like they need to start looking at the big picture down the road. These gimmicks of theirs aren't going to hold up forever.

There are those of us that are excited with what the 3DS can bring to the table. You don't seem to be one of those people and that's a fine opinion to have. Have you checked out one of the demo stations yet at Best Buy? I'd give it a try for yourself instead of just going solely on what you read online. I'm not saying that it will change your mind, but a few hands-on minutes are pretty valuable when it comes to forming opinions on the system that don't start with "I've heard that."

First hand experience is the most important thing, and that's why I've said I'll wait to play it extensively when a friend owns it rather than buying it or checking it out at a store for 5 minutes. Opinions and reviews should not be disregarded either, because those people have also spent extensive time on it.

My connection with the 3DS is a little more personal because I still have a DS Lite and I was lucky enough to try the 3DS last June and again last week. I was just personally tired of a lot of the "cons" that reviewers seemed to have with the system, when I thought there were acceptable work-arounds for a lot of them. I feel that's an easier way of assessing the situation, instead of doing the defensive, point-by-point, quoting breakdown.

I have a DS Lite also. In fact, I've come to enjoy plenty of games on it throughout its lifetime. More than I count.

And work-arounds should never be acceptable. That's just ignoring the issue in general. Big issue or small, work-arounds should not be accepted as an overall solution. A big example being the plenty of "work arounds" that BP tried to do on their oil spill right? A small example being Iphone 4's stupid antenna issue? Their solution? Let's just issue free lame looking bumpers out.

Can you not have faith in Nintendo? They have yet to recently make a flop, and I don't think this is going to be one. I agree with Youko that you seem to just be against the 3DS in general because it's not perfect for you. Having a sensitive 3D angle isn't a flaw, nor is it something that "should be addressed." It's the technology. If you want to pay 100 dollars more for one that can do 3D from 400 miles away and underwater, then be my guest. I have self-control and am fine with the angle. I played with it. It's not that bad.

And if you're going to just dog on it, get out of the thread. Let people who are interested in it post here.

How the hell is that not a flaw? If I want to see the layers and 3D depth while rotating my 3DS around based on a game that relies on that, why can't I do that? Because the angle is too sensitive? Why must my eyes have to constantly strain in and out of 3D due to the sensitive angle, when I'm mashing buttons on Street Fighter? I'm not asking to see 3D a 100 miles away, but to have more FREEDOM in my movements to see the 3D. I don't want to be limited to just one position. What if I'm tired of sitting up right, and want to lay on my bed and play? What if I'm in a bumpy long car ride? Why should I constantly be concerned about if the 3D viewing window is correct?

I do consider this a flaw, and plenty of other people do too as well. I would love to play remakes and new games in 3D, but I don't want to be limited to such sensitivity.

 

[Sariku]

How the hell is that not a flaw? If I want to see the layers and 3D depth while rotating my 3DS around based on a game that relies on that, why can't I do that? Because the angle is too sensitive? Why must my eyes have to constantly strain in and out of 3D due to the sensitive angle, when I'm mashing buttons on Street Fighter? I'm not asking to see 3D a 100 miles away, but to have more FREEDOM in my movements to see the 3D. I don't want to be limited to just one position. What if I'm tired of sitting up right, and want to lay on my bed and play? What if I'm in a bumpy long car ride? Why should I constantly be concerned about if the 3D viewing window is correct?

I do consider this a flaw, and plenty of other people do too as well. I would love to play remakes and new games in 3D, but I don't want to be limited to such sensitivity.

When you're paying 249.99 in the year 2011 for a 3D handheld device and the only gripe is the "small" 3D window? That's not a flaw. Maybe a limitation, but not a flaw and nothing that should be held against the device. If Nintendo could make it better without increasing the price, obviously they would. But they can't.

 

[Abel1994]

Pee ordered miens last Saturday

Black+Street fighters!

 

[sakuraZaKi]

The FPS doesn't go to 30 when you turn 3D on.

Oh, I didn't clarify. I was specifically referring to DoA: Dimensions, in which it has been stated that the framerate of the game changes from 60 to 30 when switching from 2D to 3D. Though, I think it has to do with the game anyway, so no matter.

edit: It's a personal thing anyway, so don't take it... personally, lol.

As I said earlier, I won't know until I get to experience it with my own eyes, so I'm not going to go any further with this.

 

[GwJ]

It drops to 30 because of a developer choice, not a limitation.

 

[Dastrn]

I decided to wait to purchase a 3DS until a bit later. Maybe this summer. Maybe christmas. I'm not that excited about the launch titles. I'm also curious how soon they'll talk about updating the hardware, and I don't like being an early adopter on tech like this.