[CrashPQ]

Non-gaming uses for the Nintendo DS are starting to become more widespread. Initially, these alternative functions were made up of non-traditional gameplay, brain and face training and skin care. Then, Wii-nnovations morphed into services such as ordering food and showing replays at Safeco Field, home of the Seattle Mariners. Now, Disney is piloting a program to use the dual-screened device as an interactive map and guide to Walt Disney World.

The quite extensive application called 'Disney Magic Connection' features not just maps, but GPS for locating the nearest bathrooms, ATMs, and other amenities, as well as estimated wait times at rides and attractions, and, of course, games to help you kill time on those lines.

Currently, 'Disney Magic Connection' is only available preloaded on DS systems provided by Disney, but that may change when the program moves out of the testing phase.

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[Ryan C.]

VEry Cool!! I edited your post and added a pic!

I woul love to get a DS just for that reason!!

[Capt. Tigger]

That's fascinating! I currently have a DS and would love if this was made available as a cartridge and not just pre-loaded systems at the park. Imagine the ease of planning and keeping up with reservation info, times, etc.

Thanks!

[Mickey Crazy]

Hold on to all loose items, we are moving this thread to the Gadgets and Gizmos Forum.

[laughingplace<3]

Originally Posted by CrashPQ

Non-gaming uses for the Nintendo DS are starting to become more widespread. Initially, these alternative functions were made up of non-traditional gameplay, brain and face training and skin care.

Not to be a tech dumbie, but what are some examples of those functions? Like, I know they have sudoku (spelling?) on DS, but what are the other functions?

And also, clarification: does this mean that the DS interactive guide will be provided in a PalMickey fashion?

Thanks

[Kebabs]

That sounds brilliant, I would love to be able to buy the cartridge for my DS, all the fun I could have with it before the holiday and then while we were there! I'm going to go and look online now and read more about this!!!

[Capt. Tigger]

Originally Posted by Kebabs

That sounds brilliant, I would love to be able to buy the cartridge for my DS, all the fun I could have with it before the holiday and then while we were there! I'm going to go and look online now and read more about this!!!

Please update if you find anything out! Thanks!

Originally Posted by laughingplace&lt

Not to be a tech dumbie, but what are some examples of those functions? Like, I know they have sudoku (spelling?) on DS, but what are the other functions?

And also, clarification: does this mean that the DS interactive guide will be provided in a PalMickey fashion?

Thanks

I think its touching on the type of programs for the DS that are marketed to those who usually do not play video games. For example there are a few games (one is called Brain Age) which have quick little exercises for keeping your mind sharp, and a lot of these have been a big hit with older people who otherwise would not buy a gaming systems.

One example would be showing several numbers on one screen, with the fonts being different sized, and asking the person to write (the DS has a stylus that can write on one of the screens) which of the numbers is numerically biggest on the other screen. The "game" has several exercises like that. I know their tagline is "train your brain in only 15 minutes a day" or something along that line. I know they have a similar game for keeping vision sharp as well.

I think with the stylus functions, dual screens, and Wi-fi capability, this could be a really cool sidekick for planning and keeping up with stuff in the parks!

Hope that helps some!

[WDW 24/7]

This is a great thing for everyone. Tech and non Tech. If this gives you easy access to wait times, restaurant menu's, etc. it would enhace your experience by making better use of your time.

I can't recall how many times we've walked across the park only to find the ride we went to had over an hour wait. With this device, that time would no longer be lost. A quick glance at the screen and a long walk has been saved. Also, how much could be done while you wait in long lines??? Make reservations, make a game plan for the rest of the day.

Great move all around!!! I'll be excited when this is readily avaialbe to all guest....or even better, be chosen as a tester.

[G00fyDad]

Originally Posted by WDW 24/7

If this gives you easy access to wait times, restaurant menu's, etc. it would enhace your experience by making better use of your time.

While that would be VERY nice, I don't think the Nintendo DS has a internet or wireless function.

[WDW 24/7]

Originally Posted by G00fyDad

While that would be VERY nice, I don't think the Nintendo DS has a internet or wireless function.

No Internet, but yes, you will be hooked into an internal WiFi network. The DS does have 802.11 built in. These are some of the options on the Disney DS.

• See interactive maps of the park.
• Find out wait times and Fastpass availability.
• Find out what characters are in the park and where to find them.
• Enter the attractions and shows they’d like to see and have the device organize their day.
• Play games themed to the attraction they’re visiting.

[G00fyDad]

Wow. I apologize. I feel like a blockhead. I bought one of these for my daughter and didn't even know it had this function. AND I work on computers for a living. You would have thought I would have known this! LOL

[laughingplace<3]

http://www.dsfanboy.com/2008/01/22/taking-a-closer-look-at-the-disney-ds-guide/

That's a little more I found on the device with some more pictures, and a scan of the pamphlet Disney is giving out about it. At the end of the page are some other links to some discussions also regarding the device.

What I still don't know is how you can get the DS program and how much it is... ?

[G00fyDad]

I'd like to know what the outside of the DS looks like. Does it have a Mickey head on it? My daughter has her pink one but I may have to go ahead and get one of the Disney ones if the Disney DS cartridge isn't out by October.

[andrewpward]

I am doing a report for school and am looking for information from people that have used the Nitendo DS to guide them through the park.

How much is this to rent? Whats your favorite feature and what could they improve?

Any info will greatly help me!!!

Have a magical day!!!

[benihodge]

I hope someone knows because now I'm interested.