When it comes to buying a better handheld gaming device some questions may come to mind:
What games best suit me?
How much am I willing to spend?
How often will I play?
These are of course "cookie cutter" questions, but nevertheless, important questions to think about.
First, if you are not big into gaming, and only like to play a game, say, to 'pass the time' then it might just be best to download some small "time waster" games on your cell phone to get you by on the morning commute into Manhattan. Cell phones are getting a lot better for video game use, and it's pretty cheap as well.
If you are more into games and figure that you will be playing the games while at home, and not just when you are traveling (even though I would still suggest investing in a handheld gaming system for traveling) then it would be best to buy either a Nintendo DSi or a PSP. Both systems are definitely worth the cash, but only if they will be used, right?
Now the problem lies in which one is more suitable for you. Of course I can't tell you which one to buy, but I can offer some pointers on which one suits you better. In a series of 'follow up' articles I will talk about the pros/cons of each so that you can decide which is best for you. But first a disclaimer: arguments for or against gaming systems in these columns will not be based on age of player. Reviews of games should be objective and not fall to the claim that 'games are for kids.' Anyone who disagrees should go out and buy Aladdin for the Super Nintendo, a truly sweet game no matter how old you are.