Japan gets new DS Lites

Just a couple of weeks after Nintendo unveiled the peppy new Noble Pink model of its DS Lite, Japanese gamers have a couple more versions of the hardware to consider.

First off, when the DS version of Final Fantasy III launches August 24, it will leave its mark on the system in more than one way. Famitsu.com disclosed today that the game will launch bundled with a special-edition Crystal White DS Lite. The DS will feature characters sketched by none other than FFIII character designer Akihiko Yoshida. Each unit will also be stamped with a unique serial number. The bundle will retail for 22,780 yen (roughly $197). Of course, the game will also be available separately for 5,980 yen (about $52).

Meanwhile, Nintendo revealed that the DS Lite will be getting another, more somber variation. The Jet Black DS is scheduled to hit store shelves in Japan on September 2; it has been available in Europe since the handheld went on sale there last month. Like the rest of the DS Lite lineup, the Jet Black variation will retail for 16,800 yen (about $144).