Nintendo have consistently denied that the latest handheld console to be launched in the UK and worldwide is aimed at shall we say the older generation of gamers, but if you look a little deeper, there is clearly a lot of evidence and no doubt the focus is in this sector.
The Facts
Features
Firstly, what’s different about the DSi XL than the original DSi? Errrm not a lot really in functionality, when you look at the DSi XL Features. Oh yes, the size!! When have we ever had a brand new console realeased in recent times where the size is actually larger? The marketing of the DSi XL has consistently stressed the 93% increase in screen size over the original Nintendo DS, a longer touch pen and stylus. I know from personal experience, many pensioners don’t like even traditional BT phones these days as they’re getting smaller and smaller, but buy them a big bulky phone with huge buttons and many will be delighted. The same applies with gaming. Of course everyone wants to join in, especially now the vast arrays of puzzle games and ‘brain training’ about, but fiddly controls and smaller screens certainly make playing and enjoyment somewhat more difficult. Anyone struggling with this predicament, which unfortunately is more common in the older generation, is therefore a key target for the DSi XL marketeers.
Colours
Pink, Bright Red, Metallic Blue, Turquoise? Not a chance, the new DSi XL (in the UK at least) comes in 2 dullish colours, Wine Red and Dark Brown. Are these aimed at older people? Make you’re own mind up but I doubt many teenagers would be too keen on that choice.
Inclusive Games
OK any inclusive games on the DS platform are likely to be of the puzzle variety, and are also very welcome, so it doesn’t necessarily mean anything – the UK console includes A Little Bit Of Brain Training: Arts Edition and Dictionary 6 in 1.
Nintendo Advertising
The biggest hint of all that the new Nntendo DSi XL is aimed at elderly people can be seen in their advertising and promotion of the console. As the Nintendo Roadshow tours Britain with a UK tour, they demonstarted the new DSi to a whole sector of the community who’ve probably never played any sort of gaming console before, namely the Pegasus Court Retirement Home in Exmouth. (source: Nintendo promotes DSi XL in Retirement Home )
So, what do you think?
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The fact that Nintendo DSI XL targets older people is wide-known as the size is perfect for people with failing eyesight and shaking hands. Modern gaming consoles with small buttons are’nt usable for elder people as their hands would have problems pressing them. Guess Nintendo’s targeting another market now.
John
The Technology Mill