What is the DS Lite?
The DS Lite is Nintendo’s redesigned model of the Nintendo DS. It is somewhat smaller than the original DS. It sports a new, shiny screen that has four levels of brightness.
Why did Nintendo make the DS Lite?
Nintendo’s logic behind producing a new model of the DS is quite simple. Compared to Sony’s hip, cool PSP, the first DS looked like a child’s toy. In contrast, the DS Lite is made to catch your eye. It is more sleek and shiny, and has a dazzling display on the higher brightness levels.
What is new about the DS Lite?
First of all, the DS Lite is 133mm x 73.9mm x 21.5mm, shaving off roughly a third of the original size. It also weighs 218g, which is about 80% of the weight of the first DS. Ironically, the stylus has actually grown in size.
As was previously mentioned, the DS Lite has four levels of backlight intensity. The lowest of which is equal to the light of the current model, and the brightest greatly outshines the rest with stunning clarity. Switching between levels can be done by tapping the sun icon in the startup menu, just like how you can turn the current DS screen’s light on and off.
The power adapter is not compatible with the DS’s adapter, nor with that of any other system. The buttons have been redesigned with ergonomics in mind. The D-pad is higher and slightly smaller, and the start and select buttons are more like that of previous Gameboys and have been placed near the bottom. The power switch is a sliding switch, rather than the button currently found on the DS’s top left. The mic had been moved to the center, giving the feeling that you can talk into the system rather than away from it.
Where can I get a DS Lite?
Although the DS Lite was launched on March 2 in Japan, it is only just now (June 11, 2006) become available in the U.S. It can be purchased at any major retailer of Nintendo game products for an average price of $140.00
Should I buy a DS Lite?
This one is up to you readers. On one hand, the DS Lite is leaps and bounds better than the present DS model in the area of attractive design and ergonomics. On the other hand, there are no features that absolutely necessitate a purchase. If you have cash to spare and cannot stand the feel of the DS as it is, then this is the redesign for you. If you already have a pain in your wallet, then you don’t really need to pick one up. It’s your call.
