Nintendo DS WHO: Nintendo, maker of Game Boy and GameCube
WHY: New systems are always required for developing handheld games that take advantage of the latest technologies, in this case touchscreens, wireless networking, voice recognition and picture chat.
HOW IT WORKS: The stacked screens–a regular LCD
and a touch-sensitive one–allow for a new breed of games. Play can be controlled with a PDA-type stylus in addition to buttons. Two kinds of wireless networking, including industry-standard wi-fi, mean that you'll be able to play some games head-to-head in a room or–with the right programming–seek combatants out on the Internet.
APPLICATIONS: Expect many new games, including ones with familiar faces like Mario and James Bond. Game Boy Advance titles are also compatible.
HOW MUCH: $150; due in late November.
