Should You Buy a DS Lite?

The DS Lite replaced the Gameboy Advance and previous bulky DS model as Nintendo's leading handheld console. When it was first released, it was one of the hardest systems to get your hands on. Now, along with the Wii, it can still be difficult to find one in the right color for your or someone you love. But is the DS Lite really worth the buy?

The unit weights about 218 grams and is much smaller than its predecessor. The original DS was bulky, especially the top of the unit and the streamline design now allows it to be stored in a variety of ways not possible before. With a full battery, the DS Lite will last about 15 to 17 hours before needing a charge which can be done with an AC adapter or car charger. This assumes the unit is being used with standard brightness controls, the higher the brightness, the shorter the battery life will be. The AC adapter comes with the unit whereas the car charger must be purchased separately.

Top and bottom LCD screen designs were redone to allow for a higher durability than the original DS. You can purchase additional screen protectors can be bought to also protect the screens longer. The stylus was redesigned, and is a bit larger, to help prevent loss. It can be inserted into the side of the unit for storage. The unit comes with two styluses to start out and additional ones can be purchased separately. Also, the top hinges for the top screen were redesigned to allow for higher durability since they were easily breakable previously.

In new developments with the DS Lite, a microphone was built-in for use with games along with a newly designed GBA slot. The game now protrudes slightly, but it also gives you a filler cartridge to put in to keep out dirt, dust and other grime. You can use WiFi connections to interact with other DS Lite consoles, play games with one another and even connect to the Internet with the right software from Nintendo.

Overall, the DS Lite has created a unique gaming experience for handheld gamers. Each game has sections that can only be completed by connecting with other gamers, so it is all about interacting with other users. If you enjoy interaction with your video games, especially connecting with other users, the DS Lite might be right for you. Check out the games that come with it, too, and see if you would enjoy playing with it.