Today marks the official launch of the Nintendo 3DS in America. Console (home or portable) launches are few and far in-between, so it is always exciting when it comes time for a new platform to kick-off.

When the Nintendo DS launched in 2004 it was met with almost universal skepticism from the games press. It seemed underpowered and the 2 screens felt like a gimmick. 7 years later, the DS and Wii have been incredible successes for Nintendo, and the 3DS has a its work cut out for it.

If you have somehow missed some of the details surrounding the hardware or software, here’s some coverage from a few of the bigger outlets:

• 1UP - Nintendo 3DS scorecard
• GameSpot - Nintendo 3DS Launch Center
• Game Informer  - Nintendo 3DS Review Roundup
• IGN - 3DS Launch Guide

The initial line-up of games leaves most wanting, and the 3 1/2 hour battery life is a bummer, but there are plenty of things to like about the 3DS as well.

Did you pick up a shiny new 3DS today? Do you plan on getting one? What games do you want to see on the system? Hit the comments!