I tend to stockpile Club Nintendo "coins", as Nintendo of America's selection of prizes is generally of questionable value. It's not like we can choose from retro-style Classic Controllers (as in Japan) or cash in for Wii Points (as in Europe). NOA has stuck to posters, stylus sets, etc., with the only notable items being a pair of Game & Watch collections and the recent added, admittedly awesome Game & Watch "Ball" gaming system. Unfortunately, I have no nostalgia and little interest in Game & Watch, so the best prizes still aren't enticing.

Club Nintendo finally added a prize that I could order without hesitation. NOA probably expects most fans to use the reversible suede pouch for carrying DS cards, or loose change, or a bit of weed, but I had a completely different idea upon seeing it in the store. This thing looks just slightly larger than my new Kindle 3! I checked the official dimensions to confirm my observation and commenced to order my own pouch. It came in last week, and the results for my intended usage are very positive. The fit is tight on the sides, but the pouch works quite well should protect my Kindle's screen when I slide it into my backpack for a long hike or plane ride. (Note: Older Kindle models are larger and almost certainly would not fit in this pouch.) Check out the photos and see for yourself:

Blue side with 8-bit Mario logo

Gray side with Club Nintendo logo

Perfect fit!

Read Dune.

Peek-a-boo!