Joystiq at the Nintendo DSi Launch

post from Joystiq on 06 April 2009 03:59:00 PM. © Joystiq

Nintendo had a blowout party for its new DSi handheld at Citywalk in Los Angeles, which has become the de facto launching pad for all things gaming. Kevin Pereira from G4's Attack of the Show hosted the event, which featured a live performance from Gym Class Heroes, big-screen demos of the DSi's features, and a live appearance of artists from i am 8-bit.

Despite all this, and the presence of Mario himself, there wasn't a massive line of people waiting to pick up their units at midnight. Even the doomsday-style countdown clock that towered over the event didn't foretell the sounds of cash registers opening and closing around the world. The first midnight sale was rung in with a countdown, though, led by Pereira and Cammie Dunaway from Nintendo, and fireworks shot across the sky in celebration. Then Nintendo gave everyone a free DSi and a bag full of money! Er, wait ... We just dreamed that last part.

So, do you want or simply need a Nintendo DSi? We spoke with David Young, the assistant PR manager for Nintendo of America, about the manufacturer's newest, shiny toy and an upcoming title that can track your dog's activity. Continue on after the break for the interview.