Nintendo Shows DS Packaging, Share Price Rise

Author: by Simon Carless, David Jenkins

Nintendo has released the final packaging design for the U.S. debut of its DS dual-screen handheld, which is due out in the States on November 21st for $149.99. The box art emphasizes both the DS' stylus, and prominently displays the packed-in demo version of Metroid Prime Hunters. The handheld also ships with PictoChat software built in to it, allowing DS owners to write messages with an on-screen keyboard or the stylus and send them wirelessly to other DS users nearby. Consumer site GameSpot is currently displaying a larger-resolution image of the box. In related news, Nintendo's company shares on the Tokyo Stock Exchange have risen substantially since the beginning of the week, with some analysts attributing this to continued dissatisfaction with Sony’s announcements regarding the PlayStation Portable (PSP) – particularly in regards to pricing, battery life and launch line-up. Nintendo’s share price rose 2.1% on Monday and rose further on Tuesday.The share price is currently ¥13,000 ($117) – close to a twelve month high for the company.