Once upon a time when i was a child i really really wanted a Game Boy.

For some reason the idea of having Mario or Tetris in my pocket was amazing and i was desperate for one of these fantastic pieces of handheld technology. Today kids enjoy their 3DS's to the same extent but something is different. I get the feeling that the market for handheld machines is slowly coming to an end. I do not think it will be soon or that it will disappear completely but the desire for handheld gaming is a very different desire than i had when i was a boy.

The highly publicized launch of the 3DS did not shock me in the sense that it was a huge disappointment and gamers a currently going through the exact same experience with the launch of Sony's PS Vita.

I think the reason for this change is that of mobile gaming. Apple with an app store with pick up and play games at 0.69p is enough for your average person. Children are the only guaranteed avenue for a dedicated handheld now as who else has the time to get really stuck into a session on Uncharted on Vita when they are out and about. More often than not we go out for a reason and do not have the time for a lengthy gaming session. That is why the rise of the app store has been welcome. it provides enough of a quick fix for your average gamer on the move. Only a child who is on a car journey or been dragged somewhere with their parents is likely to have enough time away from home to play a decent amount of time.

besides if i have the choice of playing Uncharted on my PS3 or a Vita, which am i likely to spend £40 on honestly. I just can't see the handheld market lasting much longer (or more accurately a dedicated handheld market) with the advent of mobiles and the price of the current gen of handhelds.

What do others think? What are peoples experiences with their 3DS or Vitas, PSPs etc?, who has them here, who has kids who have them here? where do you use them and for how long at a time?