Tabi no Yubisashi Kaiwachou DS: DS Series 2 China

Simple Interface
Upon starting the software up, users may set the brightness of the screen as well as the presentation mode. Once in the actual software, the top screen of the NDS shows an animal from the host country on the left side of the screen while a bald-headed representation of the Japanese visitor appears on the right. On the touch screen, 10 boxes representing different situations are arranged neatly along with a "suitcase menu" icon that is located on the lower right corner of the screen. Each situation box contains the Japanese text as well as the target language below it to indicate what it's used for. When tapped, each box reveals a page or six of translated queries that may be activated and then shown on the top screen. If you're interacting with someone face to face, press the L-TRIGGER to flip the top NDS screen so that the orientation is right-side-up for him/her.

Express Yourself
Along with automatic Japanese to Thai text translation, the software can also vocalize your question in a clear female voice. To activate a vocalized saying, tap on the box for it and then tap the "suitcase menu" icon on the lower-right corner which brings you to a screen with seven icon-based actions. Tap on the icon on the upper right corner which contains a megaphone image and the NDS will intonate the question or comment. NCS would have preferred a speak option directly on the language snippet selection screen since there's a little wedge of space that's blank. As it is, Nintendo added an extra two steps to access the ability to speak the desired phrase or question.

The top NDS screen depicts the conversation as icons are tapped along with the two characters in various states of action. When the toilet icon is tapped, the bald-headed figure may be seen in an exaggerated state to depict the local emergency about to occur.

After fiddling around with the three software titles this morning, NCS was able to get the NDS to say many things in Thai. Some examples include ordering coffee and tea as well as requesting directions to the lavatory. Please note that the interface is entirely in Japanese and the software is intended for a Japanese speaking/reading audience traveling to other lands.

Korean Sample Situation
For example, let's say you're in South Korea and have just sat down inside a restaurant. You look at the menu but can't figure out what is what. You've heard of bulgogi (barbecued beef strips) but you're vegetarian. Instead of starving, flip open the NDS, boot the Korean phrasebook and direct the waiter's attention to your Nintendo DS. Click on the phrase which reads, "I am vegetarian" and wait as a voice emanates from the Nintendo DS which says "ch’aeshik juwi imnida" in perfect Korean. The waiter nods knowingly, disappears for a few minutes, and returns with a Todok salad followed by a heaping bowl of Bibimguksu noodles. After slurping your meal like a wolf, tap the "Thank you" phrase and listen as the NDS says "kamsa hamnida" to the waiter. A gratuity is not required in South Korea since a 10% service charge is automatically added to your bill but you can show your appreciation by giving your waiter a bright smile.