The new DS Lite was officially released on June 11th in the U.S. It was available early in some stores, like Target. The other day, I was in Target with my wife and I got to play “New Super Mario Brothers” on the DS Lite.

The Nintendo DS Lite is a slick piece of hardware. I’m not sure I fully appreciate the touchscreen. I own a PSP. I bought it with the hopes that this elegant gaming system would be one of the most hackable and powerful portable computers for a decent price. I have seen Windows 95 run on the PSP and Sony has a web browser that is works with its wi-fi capabilities. The most interesting hack has been the emulators available for the PSP. The idea of playing Nintendo’s Pro Wrestling or Punch Out on a portable machine was a great draw.

When the best games on a PSP are Nintendo’s old 8-bit games or Sega Genesis games – there’s something wrong. If I wanted to play Nintendo games – why not just get a Nintendo system?

When I was playing New Super Mario Brothers it was very fun. I hadn’t played a Mario game in years. It was a new experience with Mario having new moves. My wife was trying to talk to me while I was playing the game, but I was mesmerized by the game. She was trying to ask me if she could get some XBOX 360 game. I was in my own world playing the DS.

I don’t know about how hackable the DS is. I’ve never looked into it. I have seen some of its media player options, but they are very clunky. The new design of the DS Lite makes it look as stylish as an iPod. Plus, the screens are protected by the clamshell design. No need for a special case – although I’m sure some will try to protect that snazzy white case.

$129. Maybe I’ll scrounge that up and also pick up New Super Mario Brothers if I get the DS.