The Nintendo 3DS was released Sunday, March 27, moving portable video game consoles into the next generation with its 3D technology.

The 3DS looks as if it’s a regular DSi, released not too long ago. However, the most prominent feature of the 3DS is suggested in its title, providing a 3D look to its titles! Having two screens layered one on top of another allow for the games to take a 3D look that does not require use of glasses. Gamers have the option to turn the 3D off if needed, as it’s only predictable that some games won’t utilize the 3D correctly. However, most games made for the system will use this to its advantage.

One group of games is those that fall under a new gaming technology, known as augmented reality. It works by placing a card on a table top, or any hard surface, and aiming the 3DS at it. The camera on the hand-held device senses the location of the card. On screen, you will see the table as if you were looking directly at it. However, added to the screen where the card would be is the effects of the game you are playinGame Informer writer Dan Ryckert said in an article written for the magazine that “It’s not easy to get a mental picture of this concept without playing it, but you’ll understand AR Games the instant you see a dragon sprout up in the middle of your dining room table.”

Features taken from the Wii is the Mii Maker, which lets you make an avatar to represent yourself in certain games. However, the 3DS’s camera will observe your facial features and make a suggestion for how your avatar should look. If you don’t like the 3DS’s suggestions, you can simply discard them and make it yourself.

The 3DS has a pedometer that tracks how much you walk throughout your day. It’ll reward you with coins that can be used in certain games as it tracks your steps.

As well, as you walk by other people also in possession of a 3DS, their gamer information is downloaded automatically into the Mii Plaza.

Aside from all the little new things the 3DS offers, the hand-held gaming devices main feature is obviously is glasses-free 3D gaming effects. Though it starts at $249.99, any hardcore portable gamer cannot afford to miss out on this technological record breaking gaming device.