More than five years ago, Nintendo revolutionized the portable videogame market by introducing the DS. Hailed as a vastly popular machine, the DS offered an innovative design, addictive games and is responsible for opening up gaming to abroader audience. Since that point, Nintendo have released many updates and new models, but which of these different Nintendo DS models is good for gamers?

In spite of being the oldest and most outmoded model, the first DS is still popular. New models are no longer sold in shops, but many are sold for small prices online, which adds to their popularity. The first DS is also fitted to play the earliest incarnations of games which are now not accessible to the successor models. If gamers can get past the weight and size, this device is great for those on a low budget, the most cost effective of the different Nintendo DS models.

Up next, the DS Lite didn't provide a enormous deviation from the functions of the first, but as the moniker implies it reduced the weight and size considerably. Curiously, the DS Lite also boasts the best battery life of all the different Nintendo DS models, even compared to the more modern ones. The DS Lite is still widely popular for those that like less expensive consoles and are not bothered about the additional features of the DSi.

The Nintendo DSi represented the most prominent improvement to the features. Adding loads of awesome new multimedia functions,including game downloads and twin cameras. Also, all the functions of the original DS were improved, with the screen and audio being expanded. The DSi remains the most technically impressive of the different Nintendo DS models, and now the most popular.

With the DSi XL arriving shortly, there's lots of choice when making a purchase. The previous incarnations offer less features and shine, but are cost effective and still provide great gaming. However, if you are after multimedia capabilities and more bang for your buck, the newer models are a smart investment. One thing is clear though, all the different Nintendo DS models provide a great gaming experience!