The DS Life is a weekly feature in which we scour the known world for narrative images of Nintendo's handheld and handheld gamers. If you have a photo and a story to match it with, send both to thedslife at dsfanboy dot com.

Every gaming or technology forum has them, discussion threads devoted to posters sharing photos of their entertainment centers and gaming setups, dozens of pages bloated with uncropped photos and e-wang exchanges of congratulations or criticisms.

After a while, you begin to notice recurring themes -- overpriced flat-screen televisions, dual-monitor systems, mismatched Ikea furniture, shelves packed with games and DVDs, and desks cluttered with gadgets and gewgaws. For a laugh, someone might have a framed photo of Nintendo president Satoru Iwata visible, but that's as creative as these arrangements usually get.

Thankfully, with the Nintendo DS and other handhelds, you don't have to spend tens of thousands of dollars for the "perfect gaming setup." Other than a fun game and a free afternoon, you don't need much. Of course, it helps if you have a cuddlesome puppy, a good friend, or an ocean view ...