The day after the launch of any system is usually marked by complaints -- things just don't work out quite as advertised in the real world. The Nintendo DS is no exception. So far, there have been two major complaints about the system: A widely seen error and headaches.
As we reported earlier today, some corners of the internet are abuzz with reports of freezes of the system, dubbed the Black Screen of Death. According to a statement just issued by Nintendo, there is a simple, time-tested solution to the problem: Make sure your software is up-to-date.
"If anyone is experiencing any problems with their Nintendo 3DS console, we recommend that in the first instance they download and install the latest system update, now available online... If the problems still persist we recommend they contact their local Nintendo Customer Service center to investigate the problem further."
The second problem, headaches, is a bit trickier to solve.
It's difficult to get firm numbers on what percentage of 3DS users experience brain-searing pain upon playing with the device, it's definitely a real problem -- there are reports on the internet, and I can tell you with confidence, that if I set the 3D up to its highest level and play some games, it results in a terrible headache. Anecdotal, sure, but that's what we have now.
Nintendo's answer, via head of UK Communications Robert Saunders to MaxConsole, is, basically, sh*t happens.
“We have shown Nintendo 3DS at multiple events around the world to literally hundreds of thousands of people and have received very few negative comments. As with anything that requires focus, from reading to staring at a computer screen, taking breaks frequent breaks is always recommended. When viewing any kind of 3D images (TV, movies etc.), some people might experience minor discomfort. The effects are short term and have no lasting effect, in fact most players can continue after taking a short break. The Nintendo 3D was designed with a 3D depth slider that lets users adjust the 3D effect to a level that suits them for optimum enjoyment.”
There you have it, headache sufferers: Turn the 3D off. Take breaks.
So let's hear it from you guys: Any problems out there with 3DS causing headaches?
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FoxKid909
I haven't gotten any headaches but sometimes my eyes will have trouble focusing but nothing bad. I feel the 3D is great. Also I need to move my head far to the side for the 3D effect to get all screwed up. 3D just isn't for everyone thats why Nintendo added that depth slider. I feel the system is abit lacking though in content. But the update in May and Zelda on June/2 and all other big character games on August/2 will change that.
btw About the 3DS costing $100 for the materials but well Nintendo still spent alot of money in order to make the device and all research they put into it too. It will drop in price once they make enough money.
Also I have a friend who took the PSP apart and he knew how much all the components cost. The total was around $97. Hmmm didn't the PSP have a similar price as the 3DS when it 1st came out?
ShinjiEx
Meh PSP!
unako
Quite frankly I'm too broke to afford the 3ds right now, but I expected the headache complaints. When watching my first 3d movie I had a headache until I adjusted. I would think that most reasonably intelligent people would realize that such a drastic difference in the way you interact with a game might require some adjustment on the part of the gamer.
3d technology isn't going anywhere, there are way to many people interested in it. I can't wait to buy my 3ds.
TheSlowFlash
I have migraines and I have not gotten a headache from the 3DS, yet... I play with the 3D at half way. I do not doubt that you could get headaches from this thing. You will be fine if you have common sense though.
kalpow
playn a bad game on this device will only make it worst with the 3D effect so they better bring out all good games
Tmidiman
I tried it at the very lowest setting and got a headache after just a few minutes. I walked away from the demo and my vision was goofy for another 10 minutes. Gaming should not be painful, so I will pass on this system. BTW, I have no problem seeming 3D movies in theaters. Love those!
I don't think everyone will have headaches, but I think this is a bad idea for Nintendo. I smell lawsuits. And parents who who keep buying M rated games for their kids are the same ones who will let them play this system for hours. I have a bad feeling about what is going to happen.
M6000
My little cousin is a big Nintendo fan She already owns a DS but when I asked her if she was getting a 3DS she said no because she played the 3DS at best buy and it gave her a migraine. Stuff like this could end up turning out really bad for Nintendo any of our older gamer's here on the G4 forums remember the virtual boy yea we could be seeing part 2.
AXE3_25XX_EXE
3D effect giving ppl headaches, that sounds like a Virtual Boy, but that goes to other, it also games on the games.
RifePrime
I was worried about this, because my eyesight is not perfect as is, but at halfway I've not had any problems. I've also not played with 3D on for more than half an hour at a time, I suspect that may be the source of many people's problems.
CloneofBlade
I played my 3DS for over a hour today and that is the longest I have played it without taking a break from it and I didn't get a headache like I do during 3d movies, honestly I believe the best remedy for this is to just take a break and play again later. Also, I have not gotten a error message but did update my system this morning so I don't think I will get one now.
sharlee131
I've played my 3DS for about 5 hours when i first got it. ( would have been longer but it died) and honestly i cant say i never got a headache from it. i <3 it!
Rodas
I haven't had a problem with my 3ds, street fighter is awesome!
By the way.. didn't nintendo say that everyone has a level that suits them best.. why would you power the 3d all the way up if it bothers your eyes in the first place.. Anyways.. I'm hoping the street pass thing becomes a little more popular as time goes by because it seems like a neat idea..
assassin-shhhh
The price gave me a headache.
Memu
My 3DS killed my dog and then had sex with my girlfriend. But I don't blame nintendo. I probably just wasn't using it right.
Rankshot
I didn't have any problems with mine, and I did have some fun with the Augmented Reality items,because I didn't buy any launch games(waiting for OoT 3DS), I may not have anything to do with the 3DS until either the better games come out for it or wait for the Internet Browser to be up and running.
DownwithBigBrother
It varies person to person eyesight to eyesight i think because I've only tried piot wings at Best buy but I find that if I wear no corrective lenses I have the best 3D effect but with only 1 contact I can see no 3d effect while my glasses were intermediate, old perscription, havent tried up to date contacts yet, oh yeah I'm short sighted.
dranney1
Agreed the N64 always gave me headaches, also its not going to be the virtual boy its already been out in Japan for a few months and its doing very well theres no reason for it to fail here. i think some people are just pissy caused they realised that Sony isnt going to win handheld war round 2. (also outdated graphics have you seen them its an amazing piece of hardware
Sorrior
I had some headaches after playing for a bit. But i get them with most new consoles. I got them when i first got my N64 same with my PS2 and PS3. Each new generation it just takes me a bit to adapt and i;m betting this will be the same.Beside si was incredibly tired when i used it last night i havn't gotten decent sleep for weeks both wuantity and quality.
Toady909
I haven't turn my 3D down at all yet and have not had any headaches. I played for a few hours straight last night with no eye strain or any headache. But I do see how it could cause some people some problems.
dantastic4
This shows that Nintendo is at least concerned about their customers and have even issued safty tip on using the system.Unlike a certain company that throws out a faulty box and does almost nothing to adderess the failure rates its had for nearly two years.Nintendo in my book is probably the most professional of the other three and alway adderess concerns or problems that their customers may have with their product.This is what professional PR people should be doing instead of throwing insults at each others companies like a bunch of angry snot nosed little kids.What a company should always do is take care of its customers.
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