I like using the directional pad because I've always used it. I only use the circle pad solely for Mario Kart 7 because it's the only one that works. The directional pad is for viewing your driver in the first person as you steer it. I always play Pokémon on a Nintendo DS unless it's going to be Pokémon X and Y, and I heard in Wal Mart that it'll be out when the calendar reaches October 12.