Since technology is always advancing, each new release of a video game console includes improvements from the previous versions. When this happens, owners of the older gaming console find themselves in one of two situations:

• If the upgrades are subtle, or not in areas that are important to the gamer, they may decide to continue to use the system they currently own.
• If the manufacturer has made more dramatic changes, or the new system incorporates a feature that is important to the gamer, they will want to upgrade to the new game console.

Since the Nintendo DSi, the  latest version of Nintendo’s handheld gaming console. made its U.S. debut in April 2009,  many people have been wondering whether the improvements to the system are worth making the upgrade, or if the Nintendo DS or Nintendo DS Lite are still good enough for them. If you are trying to decide whether to make the switch to the Nintendo DSi, it’s important for you to know exactly what changes and improvements have been made so that you can make the smartest and most cost-effective decision.

In terms of physical changes, the Nintendo DSi is slightly slimmer than its predecessors. However the screens are larger, and they feature five brightness settings instead of the four found on the DS Lite. The new console also sports improved speakers, and the power switch was replaced with a power button. This will allow players to switch games or return to the main menu screen without shutting down the console.

One of the most significant additions to the DSi is the hidden SD card slot. Using an SD card in the handheld game console will allow you to play AAC audio, save photos, and store downloaded applications from the DSi Shop.

As for the available applications, they are very similar to the ones that can be downloaded for the Wii system from the Wii Shop Channel. The DSi Shop utilizes Nintendo Points (formerly known as Wii Points) to purchase the applications for either 200, 500, or 800 points. 800-point applications are labeled as “Premium.”

There are also two cameras built in the new Nintendo DSi. While this may seem unnecessary in a video game console, it is very possible that they may be incorporated into video game play in the future using motion or facial recognition. Character profile pictures can also be created using photos taken with the built-in cameras.

You will also want to be aware that in an attempt to improve portability, the DSi eliminates the slot for Game Boy Advance games. This means that the DSi can not utilize the grip used to play Guitar Hero games or the DS RumblePak.

Free DSi Game Downloads