The Nintendo DSi, released in 2008, marked a significant evolution in Nintendo's handheld gaming strategy. Building upon the success of the Nintendo DS, the DSi introduced several key enhancements, most notably the inclusion of two cameras, one facing the user and another facing outward. This opened up new possibilities for gameplay and user interaction, with games and applications designed specifically to utilize the cameras' capabilities. The DSi also featured a larger screen, improved processing power, and internal storage, allowing users to download games and applications directly to the console through the Nintendo DSi Shop. The removal of the Game Boy Advance cartridge slot was a controversial decision, but it allowed for a slimmer and more streamlined design.
The DSi's impact was considerable, further solidifying Nintendo's dominance in the handheld gaming market. Its focus on digital distribution foreshadowed the future of gaming, and its innovative use of cameras and other features inspired developers to create unique and engaging experiences. While the Nintendo 3DS eventually superseded it, the DSi remains a beloved console among gamers for its innovative features, diverse game library, and its role in shaping the future of handheld gaming. The DSi also introduced DSiWare, a digital distribution service that allowed smaller developers to create and sell games directly to consumers, fostering a more diverse and experimental game development scene.
2008
NINTENDO
NINTENDO DSi
📜 History & Legacy
⚙️ Specifications
- ❖ CPU: Dual ARM9 and ARM7 processors
- ❖ RAM: 16 MB
- ❖ Storage: 256 MB internal flash memory, SD card slot for expandable storage
- ❖ Screen: Two 3.25-inch TFT LCD screens, 256x192 resolution
- ❖ Camera: Two 0.3 megapixel cameras (one internal, one external)
- ❖ Wireless: IEEE 802.11b/g
- ❖ Battery Life: 3-8 hours (depending on usage)
- ❖ Dimensions: 137 mm x 74.9 mm x 18.9 mm
- ❖ Weight: 214 grams
- ❖ Audio: Stereo speakers, headphone jack
🎮 Top 10 Games
- ★ The World Ends with You
- ★ Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story
- ★ Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars
- ★ Professor Layton and the Curious Village
- ★ Pokémon Black Version/White Version
- ★ Dragon Quest IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies
- ★ Okamiden
- ★ Might & Magic: Clash of Heroes
- ★ Rhythm Heaven
- ★ Plants vs. Zombies
💡 Curiosities
- ? Did you know... The Nintendo DSi was the first Nintendo handheld console to feature built-in internal storage.
- ? Did you know... The DSi Shop allowed users to download a variety of games and applications, including **DSiWare**, many of which were exclusive to the platform.
- ? Did you know... The DSi Camera application allowed users to take photos and apply a variety of fun and creative filters.
- ? Did you know... The removal of the Game Boy Advance slot was initially met with criticism but allowed for a thinner and lighter design.
- ? Did you know... The DSi was available in a variety of colors, including white, black, blue, pink, and lime green.
- ? Did you know... The DSi's increased processing power allowed for more complex and visually appealing games compared to the original DS.
- ? Did you know... The DSi Sound application allowed users to record and manipulate audio, as well as play music files from an SD card.
- ? Did you know... The DSi's screens were slightly larger than those of the original DS.
- ? Did you know... The **Nintendo DSi XL** was a larger version of the DSi with wider viewing angles, released in 2009.
- ? Did you know... The DSi introduced a new user interface that was more intuitive and user-friendly than the original DS.