Me, anyways and only at launch based on a very limited experience with it at a demo kiosk this evening.  I spent about 20 minutes checking out Pilotwings Resort at my local Best Buy tonight after finding they had a demo kiosk available.  I approached eagerly, having rarely been disappointed by Nintendo.

Initially, it looked horrendous and uncomfortable on the eyes, but that was only because I hadn’t read the instructions asking you to keep your face 10-14 inches from the screen.  After looking closer the image took form and did indeed produce a 3D effect, albeit only a novel one.  I wasn’t rightly expecting a hologram to jump out of the screen, but after seeing so many favorable first impressions online I guess I was a victim of the hype machine.  It’s not that the effect is bad, it’s certainly an achievement, it’s just not the massive leap forward I secretly hoped it might be.

As far as Pilotwings is concerned, well, it’s Pilotwings.  Granted it’s a lot more polished than the one I first played on the 64, but still feels like more of an experience than a game.  I tried free form hang-gliding and also piloting a plane around the island for a bit and while it was enjoyable, it wasn’t anything to write home about. However, I will say that the new circle pad feels fantastic.  Comparing it to the PSP’s original analog nub it’s night and day and Nintendo’s done a great job bringing a function and comfortable control mechanism to a portable platform.  The standard stylus that’s included felt a little cheap but was functional.  I like the button placement mostly, but the material used for the Home, Start, and Select buttons feels as though it might crack under enough use but honestly those buttons only get a fraction of the punishment of the face buttons.

I’d have loved to dive into the rest of the system to look at some of the features, but unfortunately the demo unit was locked down to only allow you to play Pilotwings.  I think it’s unfortunate that more of the system couldn’t be showcased in these units especially as the launch is just around the corner.

The biggest thing holding me back from throwing down dough on this at launch is the lineup of titles.  The only games slightly appealing to me are Resident Evil: The Mercenaries and to a lesser extent Super Street Fighter IV 3D but they aren’t must-haves.  Frankly, while I appreciate the additional features of the 3DS, Nintendo’s initial marketing has hamstrung the appeal for me.

Maybe closer to my birthday when the 3DS has had a few months to mature I’ll consider it, but for now I’ll pass.

What about you?  Are you salivating for Nintendo’s newest handheld or was I not too harsh at all?