On Sunday, March 27th Nintendo released a real successor in the handheld market.  Nintendo released the Nintendo 3DS and as the name states it is 3D capable. 

The touchscreen is still there and there have been some improvements from the SD slot to the ability to not only play 3D games but take 3D pictures as well.  The best part is no glasses are required to take advantage of this feature. 

As we predicted upon the system's annoucement, it debuted under $300 at $249.99.  The cost of games hasn't changed, even though there was talk by some publishers.  One of the most popular things for the Nintendo handheld is backwards compatibility and the 3DS is no exception.  While it can play games in 3D it can play almost all of the previously released games too. 

One of the features that I enjoy is the ability to take 3D pictures.  It is fun to play around with that feature and it is nice seeing reactions from first timers as well. 

A big concern is for people who aren't able to view 3D images with glasses because it makes them ill.  Our own Stacy J has this issue and I asked her to look at the 3DS to see if glasses free was in any different.  Unfortnately, it wasn't and it had the same effect on her as a 3D movie does.  Hopefully the manufacturers will find a solution so that everyone can enjoy this feature.  If not, there is a 3D slider bar that lets you set the 3D intensity level and will even allow you to turn off the 3D effect and play games the traditional way. 

Another big question is what games work best.  I can only talk about the games that I personally have tried and currently that is Lego Star Wars 3D.  Set in the Clone Wars era from Cartoon Network, it is a fun game and takes advantage of the 3D without making it overkill.  If you are a Star Wars fan and enjoy 3D, there is nothing like seeing the Star Wars logo in 3D. 

As most of you know, I am huge supporter of 3D and this is welcome news to any true gamer. I know there are a few people who will resist, argue and deny the support or need for 3D.  The best I can say to you is to deal with it.  The 3D market is here to stay and it is only going to get bigger and better as time goes on.  Don't get me wrong, I love movies without the 3D effects but I don't hate it when they add it or update an older title.  If you don't like older films/TV having it added remember that you are not obligated to purchase it, rent it, view it or even play it.  While I am a supporter of the technology, I strongly encourage everyone to go out and try it for yourself and do what works best for you and not what someone else tells you.

The bar has been raised in the handheld market.  For those wanting to compete it will require your A game while keeping the price reasonable. 

Overall Solid B+ and an FoF recommendation