Age Advisories Branch Out

Specifically, with respect to Nintendo's new 3DS gaming system. What, is it too violent? Feature sexy urban strumpets? Advocate puppy drowning?

No. Well, maybe; puppies and strumpets aren't called out. But the advisory Nintendo issued is related to the 3D form of the game, and not its content:

The handheld gaming system displays games in 3D without the need for special glasses. Games can be played in regular 2D — an option that should be used for young children whose eyes are still developing, according to an advisory posted on Nintendo's Japanese-language website.

A Google translation of the advisory suggests adults protect young players by setting a code to block the 3D function, a view that "has a potential impact on the growth of children's eyes."

Also, this:

In April, television manufacturer Samsung Electronics Canada issued a warning to children and pregnant women to be careful if they start to feel dizzy when watching its 3D television.

Nintendo thoughtful equips its handheld system with a 2D option, beneficial not only for the under-6 crowd but for those with lazy eye or no patience with 3D machinations. Older players engaging with all three dimensions are instructed to take a break every half an hour or so. I can just see it now... a tween sets an egg timer and allows himself 30 rip roaring minutes of 3D immersive gameplay. Mmmmm.

To be fair, the handhelds may be less immersive than the larger screen versions, which the company will be touting at the upcoming E3 trade show. I can see it now... dizzy pregnant gamers grasping for handrails before falling... the ensuing lawsuits and murder charges...

Happy new year, everyone!