Analyst: DSi downloads can be a “game changer”

With Nintendo’s newest announcement of the DSi, many have already began analyzing the system’s potential, including its impact on the market. Now, analyst Michael Patcher offered his opinion on DSi downloads, stating that it can be a “game changer.”

“I suspect that broader appeal will ultimately be determined by the quantity and quality of downloadable content. If we see games like Boingz and Tetris (new Wii Ware games) exported to the DSi, or see new innovations that use the camera, I think it will be a game changer.”

Patcher also commented on Sony’s recent comments, in which it was stated that Sony isn’t sure if the DSi “will be a product that expands their user base [beyond] under 12.”

“I think that the core of the user base is between 6 and 18 (probably 75% of active users), so Koller isn’t that far off. The biggest reason for Western users over 18 to buy a DS is the games – like Brain Age – that appeal to older users. The camera feature, brighter screens, thinner case, etc. are nice to have, but don’t magically make my mom want to have one. I don’t see how the device suddenly appeals to adults unless Nintendo is able to demonstrate that the camera feature allows for more sophisticated game play.”