New 3DS Game Console Not for Kids Below 6 Years Old, says Nintendo

Nintendo is slated to release its new 3D version of its DS (dual screens) game console in February, but is careful to warn parents before letting their kids play with it.

“We will offer 2Ds alone to children aged six and younger as continuing to watch 3D images for a long time could negatively affect the development of their eyes,” said Nintendo on its Japanese website.

The game software developer is cautioning parents that the new 3D console is not safe for play for kids below six years old, as the 3D images could potentially prevent the child’s eyes from developing properly.

The 3D images from the handheld are visible without using 3D glasses. Its the biggest release since the debut of the touchscreen DS player in 2004. The images can be manipulated in order to increase or decrease their depth, making them both playable in both 2D and 3D.

Nintendo states that kids below six years old may still play video games, provided that the images are converted to 2D images, blocking 3D images, using the 3D Depth Slider, part of the parental controls. Nintendo further advises players to rest every 30 minutes when playing 3D games, or to cease all playing should they feel ill.


Photo from techie.com.ph

SOURCES:
•    December 29, 2010. “Nintendo 3DS Not for Children Under Six Years Old” aussie-gamer.com
•    December 30, 2010. “Safety Alert: Nintento 3D Game Console Not For Kids Under 6” News.Yahoo.com
•    December 30, 2010. Lisa Arneill. “Nintendo Warns That New 3DS Console Is Not For Kids Under 6” GrowingYourBaby.com