Nintendo DS Accessories
The DS has few first-party extras aside from replacement parts such as styluses, AC adapters, and batteries. Numerous third-party manufacturers fill in for the minor needs that users might desire--skins, cases, game holders, styluses, screen protectors, and more. A few Nintendo-made accessories released around the same time as the original DS have been made obsolete by the newer DS Lite and DSi.
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Nintendo Wi-Fi USB Connector
The Wi-Fi USB connector simplifies setup for those without a wireless router. Plug the connector into an available USB port on a computer connected to the Internet, and off you go. The USB connector combined with a laptop is also useful in situations involving complex Wi-Fi environments, like those found in cafés or pay-as-you-go Wi-Fi spots.
Nintendo discontinued the product in 2007, but announced that it will start shipping a Nintendo Wi-Fi Network Adapter in Japan in 2008. The new adapter will be able to function as a wireless router and as a wireless bridge.
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Nintendo DS Rumble Pak
You can plug the Rumble Pak into the empty GBA game slot on your DS to support games that have force feedback. You generally won't be able to find the Pak sold on its own; it's often bundled with games such as Metroid Prime Pinball. Other games that support the Rumble Pak include Mario and Luigi: Partners in Time, Super Princess Peach, and Metroid Prime: Hunters. The Rumble Pak will not work with the Nintendo DSi because the new portable doesn't have a GBA cartridge slot.
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Nintendo DS Headset
Plug in the official Nintendo headset to take advantage of the DS's voice and audio capabilities. Most games don't allow voice communications while you play, but you can chat while waiting for matches to start. A few games that support voice chat functionality include Metroid Prime: Hunters and Pokémon Diamond and Pearl.
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Nintendo DS Browser / Nintendo DS Browser - Original
Buy the DS Browser if you want to surf the Web using your DS. Nintendo released two versions of the browser, one for the original DS and the other for the Lite. Unfortunately, the browser doesn't support many of the new technologies commonly found today's sites, such as Flash. You won't be able to hear or see video on sites, and the browsing speed isn't terribly quick even with a speedy connection. Treat it as a last-resort option for checking e-mail, sports scores, or movie times. DSi owners won't have to worry about buying a browser because the system comes with one preinstalled.
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