Nintendo’s glasses-free 3D not suitable for younger viewers

22 June 2010

Nintendo made big waves at this year’s E3 when they unveiled their new DS portable gaming console. Dubbed the 3DS, this little marvel displayed 3D images on a monitor without the need for glasses.

It’s not the first gadget to do so, but it’s arguably the most noteworthy when one considers its impact at E3.

Answering Kotaku regarding concerns raised about headaches or other problems people might experience when staring intently at the 3DS’ display for extended periods, Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime said that the Nintendo 3DS has no health issues.

“We are working with the experts in the field,” Fils-Aime said. “We’ve done extensive testing. We have a legacy of bringing only the best and finest products to the marketplace.”

With that said he added a caveat: “We will recommend that very young children not look at 3D images.” Fils-Aime went on to explain to Kotaku that “young children” are kids under seven years old.

“That’s because, [in] young children, the muscles for the eyes are not fully formed. This is the same messaging that the industry is putting out with 3D movies, so it is a standard protocol.”

Games like Pokemon and Nintendogs target this young demographic and with a sequel for Nintendogs in the works for the 3DS (called Nintendogs + Cats) Nintendo has included a slider control to adjust or even switch off the display’s 3D effect.

The question remains, what prevents an enterprising young mind from simply cranking the 3D slider to maximum after a parent has carefully ensured that it has been switched off?

You have read 1 out of 5 free articles. Log in or register for unlimited access.

Read now

The best gaming website in South Africa
MyGaming proudly displays the “FAIR” stamp of the Press Council of South Africa, indicating our commitment to adhere to the Code of Ethics for Print and online media which prescribes that our reportage is truthful, accurate and fair. Should you wish to lodge a complaint about our news coverage, please lodge a complaint on the Press Council’s website, www.presscouncil.org.za or email the complaint to [email protected] Contact the Press Council on 011 4843612.