Nintendo DS’s Downloading Functionality

For a few years now, Japanese Nintendo DS owners have enjoyed a feature that allows them to download content such as games and add-ons for their handheld systems by hooking up the device to special kiosks at select retailers across Japan. This opens up a new era for mobile gaming, initiating an on-demand, vending machine type model for getting new playable material for the DS. Content downloaded from the kiosks may also be exclusive to that method of purchase. Users who bring their DS to shopping centers with them will be happy to find that they can get fresh entertainment without even having to purchase a physical game cartridge.

Now in 2009, DS users who have access to a Nintendo Wii can download content wirelessly to their DS. This content includes playable game demos. Some games even offer cross-functionality that employs the DS to input control into a game designed for the Wii format. The relationship between the handheld and home console continues to solidify with the PSP also offering connectivity to the Playstation 3.