This article outlines some of the best ways to use the Nintendo 3DS's StreetPass feature.

The Nintendo 3DS’s StreetPass feature was designed with Japan’s densely populated cities in mind. It goes without saying that the more people you encounter on your daily commute, the more likely it is that someone in the crowd will have a 3DS waiting to talk to yours. But if you live in the countryside, should you just shrug your shoulders and assume you’ll never get a StreetPass? No way! Don’t just throw in the towel. With a bit of persistence, you’ll find your StreetPasses.

Take your 3DS with you everywhere. Make it your new best friend. After all, it’s small and doesn’t eat much. Put it in your bag, your schoolbag, your rucksack, your big paper bag, whatever you carry with you when you’re out and about. The 3DS is an expert at detecting signals passing by at high speed, so even if you’re speeding past another 3DS owner in a car, you can get a StreetPass.

Attending a public event? Don’t go without your 3DS. People who have trouble picking up StreetPasses almost always bring their 3DS to large events, so don’t be left behind. Make extra sure to bring your 3DS to gaming conventions (or related events, like comic book or anime conventions). You’re sure to score. Personally, I scored over 300 StreetPasses at E3 2011. Your results may vary.