Nintendo DS Online
Nintendo's handheld console allows players to take the action online via a Wi-Fi connection or through an ad hoc network. It's free to play online via the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service, provided you have an existing Internet connection.
Up to 16 friends in the same room can connect directly via an ad hoc network. Nintendo guarantees a wireless range of 30 feet. You can also game online by hopping onto your home wireless network or local Internet hot spot. (Note that not all games support online multiplayer, and the number of people who can play in the same session varies from game to game.)
Use the built-in PictoChat program to send pictures and messages to your friends.
If you're playing online, chances are high that you're going to be matched up with folks you don't know. You can use friend codes to limit online game matching to only your friends. Unfortunately, you're going to have to create a friend code for every single game you own, and then send those individual codes to each of your friends. Friend codes are unique alphanumeric values generated by the combination of a particular Nintendo DS and a specific game. This means that each game you own will have its own set of friend codes that you have to enter in manually. If you purchase a new DS system, you can transfer the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection ID to the new console. Unfortunately, if the original DS breaks, your friend codes go with it. You'll have to give your buddies new friend codes generated by your new system.
Exchange friend codes to play with friends online, and share games with friends in local play.
Some games support the DS Download feature, which allows DS players to play a multiplayer game with the use of a single cartridge. These shared games will have a few limitations compared to full multiplayer games where everyone has the game cartridge. In the case of Mario Kart DS, players without the cartridge will be able to race only as Shy Guy, and all players will be limited to four specific tracks instead of the full 32 (64 if you count mirror). Download times average 30 seconds to a minute and a half depending on the game.
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