Think of the Children

When the 3DS was launched its 3D auto-stereoscopic screen was both a source of excitement and controversy. Glasses-free 3D blew minds, but the nature of the technology meant that — for many — there was an initial discomfort as their eyes adjusted to the effect, which typically eased after a short amount of time for the majority of users. That reality didn't stop it being a minor PR disaster for Nintendo, however, with inaccurate tabloid reports during that launch period referencing waves of returned systems and refunds, false headlines quickly debunked by retailers and the big N. Some PR damage was undoubtedly done, however.

Nintendo still has to endure — to a lesser degree — the ongoing debate over whether 3D visuals (on the 3DS and those viewed through glasses at the cinema or on compatible TVs) can be damaging to the eyes of children under 6 years old. It's a fact disputed within the science community, but nevertheless 3DS packaging still carries a warning encouraging parents to disable the feature for young children; for a company that's revered as a safe pair of hands for the entertainment of young gamers, that warning isn't ideal branding. These concerns have since been countered, to a degree, with the release of the budget 2D-only 2DS models in Western territories.

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The 3D viewing issue has re-emerged, however, with French Health & Safety body ANSES adopting Italian-based research to issue formal recommendations that children under 6 years old do not view 3D, while older children should minimise use. Those recommendations are below:

  • children under the age of six should not be exposed to 3D technologies;
  • children under the age of 13 should only use 3D technologies in moderation, and that both they and their parents should be vigilant concerning any resulting symptoms;
  • persons subject to certain visual disorders (disorders of accommodation, vergence, etc.) and problems with balance should limit their exposure to these technologies, including in the context of occupational exposure.

As mentioned above, however, these claims are hotly disputed, and New Scientist magazine is scathing of the research utilised for these recommendations, in particular the lack the clarity on "pioneering analysis" that has supposedly provided enlightenment.

So is its recommendation reasonable? Not if it's based on existing evidence. Crucially, the agency's report is unclear about what exactly this "pioneering analysis" is. However, what is clear is that there is no published research, new or old, showing evidence of adverse effects from watching 3D content other than the short-term discomfort that can be experienced by children and adults alike. Despite several years of people viewing 3D content, there are no reports of long-term adverse effects at any age. On that basis alone, it seems rash to recommend these age-related bans and restrictions.

There you have it, more debate over whether children should view 3D images, including those of the 3DS. Nintendo for its part covered its bases with warnings for the 3DS and the release of the 2DS, but it remains a source of contention over three years after the system was released.

[source gamesindustry.biz]