Nintendo 3DS Buying Guide

1. The 3DS is a great console for older kids and teens. It's main competition is the LeapPad Explorer for kids under 8 who don't need the complexity of the 3DS. And the PS Vita for older teens and grown-up games (but the PS Vita isn't out until 2012.)
2. The 3D effect on the 3DS goes through batteries very quickly (2-4 hours on a full charge). There is an extended life battery available which gets good reviews so you may want to factor this into the cost of your purchase. 
3. The 3DS has lots of social features that can be enabled so that a 3DS can communicate with other nearby 3DSs. Clearly this has implications for child safety and privacy. Nintendo have a 3DS parental guidance which you should read so you understand how to use parental controls. 
4. Nintendo have recommended that only children over the age of 6 should use the 3D feature. Not enough is known about how 3D could affect the developing eyes of little kids. 
5. Many of the good games for the 3DS have an age rating of 10+ or above so the console is best suited to older kids, teens and grownups. 

So, you're buying a 3DS. What are the top games that you should choose to go with it?

Our top recommendation is the Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D. This is a 3D remake of one of the best video games ever. It's a classic action adventure that will be enjoyed by those who were too young to play the original, and fans of the original too. It's rated for age Everyone 10+.

For younger kids wanting a classic game, there's Super Mario 3DS. The age rating hasn't been released for this game yet, but I expect it to be suitable for younger gamers. Super Mario is one of the classic games franchises for Nintendo and everyone will enjoy the 3D remake. 

Nintendo is also working on the Wii U home console which will plug in to the TV and have a controller with a touch screen. The Wii U is due for release in mid 2012.