Gather the gamers for a Nintendo DS party

June 23, 2009

One of the best functions for the Nintendo's handheld DS device is its multiplayer functionality combined with group WiFi capability, making it a great centerpiece to plan a party around.

Nintendo has a number of multiplayer games, though two of the most popular are Mariokart and Tetris for the DS. Guests are required to have their own DS, but in terms of the game, only one player needs to have the actual cartridge. The rest can link up wirelessly with the host DS.

The range for the wireless hook up is 30 to 100 feet, so be sure there's enough room for people to crowd around the host machine. One idea is to provide comfortable pillows on the floor or set up certain spots around the room for the players.

Be sure to have some nearby refreshments during down time. This is especially true for Tetris since once a player has been kicked off, they have to wait for the game to end to join in again.

If your DS players are younger children, make sure there are prizes available for everyone at the end of the day, so no one feels too bad once the games are over.