Only released in March, but already the company’s fastest selling console of all time, the Nintendo 3DS breaks new ground and gives the competition a real run for its money.

Pros:
• The new and improved Nintendo console for gamers on-the-move includes more powerful graphics, an analogue control stick (the industry standard for console gaming that the original DS sorely lacked), multiple cameras and gyroscopic wizardry.
• The big one: 3D effects, without the need for annoying 3D glasses. Those effects certainly live up to all the hype and, at least until the technology becomes commonplace, will have friends and onlookers cozying up to you just for a peek.
• Likely to be well supported by game developers, due to the success of the original.
• A number of great games, including Pilotwings, Street Fighter and Ridge Racer are already available. Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, a re-make of the legendary N64 title, is the big release on the not-too-distant horizon.

Cons:
• The novelty of the 3DS’ cool surround vision may soon wear off. Remember how the best thing about the original DS was the revolutionary second (touch) screen? Neither do we.
• The launch lineup of games isn’t exactly something to shout home about. It’s probably worth waiting a couple of months for Zelda, Mario et al to join the party.
• Competition is hotting up. Sony’s replacement for the PSP (codename “NGP”) will probably be released later this year, and the “Playstation Phone” (officially named “Xperia Play”) is also due out soon.

Verdict:
The 3DS is an easy choice for anyone who liked the DS—it’s a capable portable console with a great hook and is well-placed to build on the reputation of its predecessor. That said, we’d suggest waiting for some stronger games and, potentially, a better bundle deal (although don’t hold your breath for a price drop).

$399 from Best Denki, #04-05/10 City Square Mall, 180 Kitchener Rd., 6509-3122.

The buzz: It’s their first freestanding store in Singapore. What’s not to love about that?

The vibe: The space oozes sophistication with its smooth limestone floors and stainless steel fixtures complemented by clean lacquered surfaces. Illuminated semi-transparent glass fins on the walls add an interesting touch. A custom-made dropped ceiling panel takes center stage in the main area of the store which is bathed in cream colors with a classy splash of metallic. Sleek, you might say.

The goods: Feast your eyes on the complete collection from the designer’s bridge line. Items range from shoes and bags including tote bags, clutches, briefcases and travel luggage, to watches, jewelry, eyewear and fragrances for both men and women. Worthy of special mention are their handbags made from ostrich and calf-skin leather.

Why you’ll be back: Minimalism is always in style and no one does it better than Calvin Klein.

#01-204/205 VivoCity, 1 Harbourfront Walk, 6304-3561. Open daily 11am-9pm.

The buzz: Ralph Gracie—the legendary Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) champion—was just in town for a 3-hour seminar during the launch of this new Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) gym. This being the only official Ralph Gracie-associated BJJ school here, it’s the ideal place to go to pick up some kick-ass skills.

The vibe: Located out in Turf City, students are able to focus their minds entirely on their martial art craft away from the din of the city (the only possible distraction being horses from the Gallop Stable nearby).

The goods: Currently, only BJJ classes, taught by professional BJJ instructors, are available. Training programs catering to different needs include the Beginner, Intermediate and No-Gi (Submission Grappling), as well as classes for kids and teens. It’s $280 per month for all levels with unlimited usage.

Why you’ll be back: Because you want to be the perfect fighting machine. With lessons conducted in a small-group setting, every detail of your performance is supervised and mistakes can be corrected immediately by the BJJ experts.

100 Turf Club Rd., House J & S, 6468-8978. Open Mon-Fri 11:30am-9:30pm; Sat 11:30am-5:30pm.