3 Gaming Features That Never Stuck Around

Technology and its subsequent features are evolving left and right, especially when it comes to devices used by the everyday individual. Some innovations stick around and become staples, while others quietly fade into the abyss. With that thought in mind, we would like to give out a last “hurrah” for some of these features that never really continued after. 

The 3D Function of the Nintendo DS

From Nintendo Official Website

I guess it came with the name, but when Nintendo’s 3DS was released, it revealed that it could display 3D visuals without the need for glasses. It promised an “immersive” experience without the need for special glasses. However, this feature was a bit of a hit-or-miss for users. Some found that the added depth was great, but others reported discomfort, dizziness, and even headaches after extended use—I can attest that it wasn’t great. 

The adjustable 3D slider offered some relief, but many players switched it off altogether. In the end, the 3D feature didn’t have the impact Nintendo hoped for, and in later iterations, like the Nintendo 2DS, it was removed entirely.

Accessory Overload 

From r/Gamecube Reddit thread via r/Techsreddit 

Right, another entry for Nintendo, but I can’t help but list this out as well! Nintendo has always been at the forefront of experimentation regarding fun and its hardware. However, during the early era, the company introduced a slew of add-ons designed to enhance the vanilla experience for consoles like the Wii, GameCube, Gameboy Advance, etc. While some accessories, like the Wii Fit board, found a niche, others felt like unnecessary extras, clutching consoles with gadgets. Players were expected to collect these pieces to make their console the "ultimate" system. 

However, the excitement quickly faded as the novelty wore off, and most accessories gathered dust.  It seemed like a futuristic take on gaming, and for a while, it was fun. However, the Kinsect’s limited library of games and inconsistent motion tracking made it more of a gimmick than a game-changer. 

Microsoft Kinect

From CNET Official Website

Last but not least, we shall turn our eyes towards Microsoft. Now, the Kinect was quite a move by Microsoft since it used motion control. Released for the Xbox 360, the Kinect allowed players to interact with games using gestures. When the Xbox One was released, the Kinect was relegated to the sidelines and eventually discontinued as Microsoft shifted its focus back to traditional gaming.

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