Christmas Buyers Guides:
Wii | PSP | Xbox 360
Ace Attorney: Apollo Justice
Release Date: Out Now
Players: 1
Developer: Capcom
Publisher: Capcom
The fourth game in the Ace Attorney series, and the first entry developed specifically for the Nintendo DS. Interestingly, Capcom decided to ditch the character Phoenix Wright and replace him with rookie defence attorney Apollo Justice. Despite the new cast of characters, gameplay has been left pretty much untouched from past outings, but if you’re eager to return to the courtroom that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying this spin-off title.
Our review said: If you were gagging for more after finishing the previous games in the series, Apollo Justice will be a welcome return to the wacky Japanese courtroom. For those who were previously fans but whose interest was waning, it probably features enough novelty elements to get you through anyway. The third (and probably best) game in the Ace Attorney series has not seen a release in Australia, primarily because of a large delay in the series' debut here due to a bout of local publishing limbo. Grab that on import before hearing Apollo's story, but if you already have, the latest keeps the series going competently. We can only hope Capcom really mixes it up for the next Ace Attorney - perhaps the recently announced Ace Prosecutor spin off will do the trick. [FULL REVIEW: 7]
Advanced Wars: Dark Conflict
Release Date: Out Now
Players: 1-4
Developer: Intelligent Systems
Publisher: Nintendo
The Advanced Wars series made its second appearance on the Nintendo DS early this year. Dark Conflict is more or less the same as previous instalments, though the developers have made a handful of additions including a levelling-up system, online play via the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service, and a whole new cast of characters. Coupled with a darker world and top notch strategic warfare, strategy game fans simply can’t ignore this one.
Our review said: While we might not sound wildly enthusiastic about Dark Conflict - it is, after all, fundamentally more of the same - there's no denying that it's a very good game. Compared to Dual Strike, Dark Conflict is a sober affair - if Dual Strike is Risk, then Dark Conflict is a bit more like chess. Dark Conflict loses a lot of the flash and glitter that either delighted or annoyed you in Dual Strike and instead presents rock solid, addictive strategy gaming. We can't help but feel that there was room for something a bit more fresh and innovative in Dark Conflict but will also happily admit that the game doesn't really need any more bells and whistles. Advance Wars: Dark Conflict keeps the series at the very top of the DS strategy pile and is a great place for both newcomers and veterans to keep on fighting the good fight. [FULL REVIEW: 8]
Bleach: The Blade of Fate
Release Date: Out Now
Players: 1-4
Developer: Treasure Co. Ltd
Publisher: Sega
It’s difficult to find a decent fighter for the dual-screen wonder, and it’s even more difficult to find a decent game based on an anime. You can imagine our surprise then when Bleach: The Blade of Fate found its way into our sweaty little hands. Whether you’re a fan of the anime, or just want a decent fighter to play on the go, you don’t need to look any further.
Our review said: Bleach: The Blade of Fate has two luxuries: the lack of competition within the genre on the DS and what seems to be a proper development cycle. And that’s despite the fact that it has been around for two years and effectively counts as an early DS game. Even with a few minor quips and some typical franchise-based pitfalls, it is not only the most solid (if not the best) fighting game to be found on the DS outside of Japan and, particularly for anyone who has just jumped on the Bleach bandwagon, a great anime-based title to boot. Even if you look at it purely as fighter, there almost enough here to interest fans of fighting games as well. [FULL REVIEW: 8]
Cooking Guide: Can’t Decide What to Eat?
Release Date: Out Now
Players: 1
Developer: Nintendo EAD
Publisher: Nintendo
While not a game in the traditional sense, Cooking Guide: Can’t Decide What to Eat? is certainly one not to be overlooked by food lovers. The title features over 200 recipes from around the world, with each one containing step-by-step directions, photos and, in some cases, even video demonstrations. Of course cooking can be a messy hobby, so a virtual chef will be on hand to relay information to you in case you can’t quite grab that stylus. Actually, why wait until Christmas? Buy it now and prepare a fancy Christmas dinner to impress the family with.
[FULL REVIEW: Coming Soon]
Crossword DS
Release Date: Out Now
Players: 1
Developer: Nuevo Retro Games
Publisher: Nintendo
We like our crossword puzzles, we always open the morning newspaper and spend the day trying to solve them, getting angry when a co-worker tells us the answer to that very last problem. If you’re that co-worker, then perhaps you should think about purchasing Crossword DS as a Christmas present to apologise. It has more crosswords than you can poke a stylus at, and even a few find-a-words to keep things feeling fresh.
Our review said: CrossworDS is a surprisingly solid game and a fantastic addition to the touch generations series. Anyone who has even a fleeting interest in crosswords should pick up CrossworDS because it's the perfect time killer and ideal for long trips on the train in the morning, or long car trips for family holidays. The game's presentation is basic, but this means CrossworDS is easy to get into and will keep you coming back again and again. [FULL REVIEW: 7]
Dragon Quest: The Chapters of the Chosen
Release Date: Out Now
Players: 1
Developer: ArtePiazza
Publisher: Square Enix
The DS library is full of Japanese RPGs – some better than others – but Dragon Quest: The Chapters of the Chosen managed to standout this year. It didn’t do anything particularly revolutionary for the genre, but it had enough charm and quality to find a place in our hearts. If you’re not a fan of JRPGs though, then you best avoid it.
Our review said: Indeed, the need for tradition is practically the sole 'problem' holding The Chapters of the Chosen back from a 'perfect' final score. Far be it for this review to become yet another futile diatribe of all that is wrong with game reviews, it certainly goes without saying there's nothing fundamentally revolutionary about CotC. There's its inclusion of custom town building and sharing system between DS', but such negligible trivial pursuits, among others, are admittedly side attractions to the main course. A course that, as vivid and memorable as it is, may not necessarily be recommended for digestion by the non-enthusiast of Japanese role-playing games. There's a definite venerable charm to Dragon Quest: The Chapters of the Chosen, and its would-be fans could likewise do good in appropriately placing their playing mindsets in a long since established, if flawed bygone era. [FULL REVIEW: 7.5]
Exit DS
Release Date: Out Now
Players: 1
Developer: In-House
Publisher: Square Enix
Mr. ESC seems to have escaped Sony’s PSP handheld and made his way to the DS. For those that never played the original games, Mr. ESC is a professional escape artist who saves civilians in need. The game features a range of disasters to survive including fires, flash floods and even tornadoes. Definitely one for all the aspiring superheroes out there.
[FULL REVIEW: Coming Soon]
Final Fantasy IV
Release Date: Out Now
Players: 1
Developer: Matrix Software
Publisher: Square Enix
It was bound to happen sooner or later – last year’s Final Fantasy III remake proved so popular among fans that Square Enix decided to release a remake of Final Fantasy IV. It almost goes without saying, if you’re a fan you’ll be wanting to pick this up if you haven’t already.
Our review said: It goes without saying that the obligated Final Fantasy fans have already made their choice. And how. The addition of a conveniently viewable map of the current play area on the bottom DS screen (with obsessive-compulsive completion percentage, natch). A few new welcome character management and menu options. An at times ridiculously increased level of difficulty. Not to mention at least 40 hours of gameplay from beginning till end. A solid, if largely familiar investment basis for the FF aficionado. Whether the same indulgence is applicable to players outside such denominations is a sure-fire bet towards the negative. Ten to one odds the same results when the next 'remake' of Cecil and co. comes around the mountain when it comes. [FULL REVIEW: 7]
Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Rings of Fates
Release Date: Out Now
Players: 1
Developer: Square Enix
Publisher: Square Enix
Another Final Fantasy game manages to creep into our DS Buyer’s Guide this year – Square Enix must be loving every minute of this – but this time it’s a completely original game. Rings of Fates takes the GameCube’s relatively successful Crystal Chronicles and builds on its concept. At the time of our review, we said it was one of the best RPGs available for the system, and to be frank we doubt we’ll see anything topple it for a while… At least until the inevitable Rings of Fates II is announced.
Our review said: Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Ring of Fates is easily one of the best role-playing titles on the DS at this time and possibly the best value for money title on the system as well. By taking the original GameCube concept, refining it into its present state and offering a unprecedented boat load of content in a veritable handheld package, Square Enix have made an absolute gem of a game that all DS owners should appreciate. [FULL REVIEW: 8]
Geometry Wars: Galaxies
Release Date: Out Now
Players: 1
Developer: Bizarre Creations / Kuju Entertainment
Publisher: Sierra
It’s been a good year for the Geometry Wars franchise. A new entry was released on XBLA to much delight, while the series also found a new home on the Wii and Nintendo DS. While we considered the Wii version of Galaxies to be a pretty good shooter, the DS version was slightly more appealing. Perhaps it was the fact it was available at a cheaper price point, or maybe it was simply because we could take Geometry Wars on those long train rides to work. Either way, if you don’t own the 360 or Wii versions yet, then do yourself a favour and pick this one up for some addictive high score mayhem.
Our review said: Geometry Wars: Galaxies is a fantastic shooter and a title we have no hesitation in recommending to shooter fans or Geometry Wars addicts. We were a little hesitant about the game when it was first announced because the other titles have been budget priced, but with new weapons, a deep single player mode and online play Geometry Wars: Galaxies is a fantastic sequel to Geometry Wars. It's easily the best Geometry Wars title available and at a budget price point this is a game that just about everyone should have in their Nintendo DS collection. [FULL REVIEW: 7.5]
Guitar Hero: On Tour
Release Date: Out Now
Players: 1-2
Developer: Vicarious Visions
Publisher: Activision
Guitar Hero finally makes its way to the handheld market, complete with a brand new plastic peripheral. While On Tour was never going to replace the home console versions, at least it lets you look like you’re having a seizure in public while rocking out to some tunes. It’s just a shame the DSi won’t feature a GBA slot for that groovy hand grip device. Ah well, it gives you an excuse to dust off the soon-to-be-dated DS Lite.
Our review said: On Tour is never going to replace the other Guitar Hero games and nor do we think Activision is trying to get it to do so. With a decent tracklist, a very reasonable pricepoint and that awesome Guitar Hero gameplay, anyone who wants to take their RAWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWKING OUT into the streets and on the train should have no hesitation in picking up Guitar Hero: On Tour, just don't rawk out too hard or the guitar grip will come out. [FULL REVIEW: 7]
Kirby Super Star Ultra
Release Date: Out Now
Players: 1-4
Developer: HAL Laboratory
Publisher: Nintendo
Hot off the heels of Kirby Squeak Squad comes Super Star Ultra, a remake of the SNES classic Kirby’s Fun Pack. The games features improved visuals, 3D cutscenes and a couple of new games that were never in the original. While most games are platform-oriented, there are a few that break away from this to keep things fresh and interesting.
[FULL REVIEW: Coming Soon]
Korg DS-10: Synthesizer
Release Date: Out Now
Players: 1
Developer: AQ Interactive
Publisher: Xseed Games
So exactly what is Korg DS? It’s best described as a music creator game which is based on the KORG MS-10 music synthesizer. It’s probably best to stick to this one if you’re an aspiring or professional music maker, since there’s no real objective or gameplay. It’s just designed as a cheaper alternative to the KORG MS-10, and it lets you play with all the different knobs and buttons via the touch screen.
[FULL REVIEW: Coming Soon]
Lock’s Quest
Release Date: Out Now
Players: 1-2
Developer: 5th Cell
Publisher: THQ
From the creators of Drawn to Life comes another original IP. Lock’s Quest is what some of you old school players would call a tower-defence game. In the game players assume the role of Lock, a newly trained Archineer who has to build towers, walls and traps to thwart the invasion of an enemy army. With over a hundred different areas, two main gameplay modes and the ability to verse friends via multi-card multiplayer, Lock’s Quest is sure to find a place under the tree for any real-time strategy fan.
[FULL REVIEW: Coming Soon]
Looney Tunes: Duck Amuck
Release Date: Out Now
Players: 1-2
Developer: WayForward Technologies
Publisher: Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment
Remember that episode of Looney Tunes called Duck Amuck? It’s the one where Daffy Duck gets ticked off at a cartoon artist who puts him in a number of different situations. Well, it’s been transformed into a mini-game compilation on the DS, and while the game is fairly simple to play, there’s just something about it that’s so appealing. A nice stocking stuffer for the little ones or the young at heart.
Our review said: It’s a rare event that a game based on a non-gaming IP captures the true spirit of its source material. So when you pick up a title that has so much soul and originality it's particularly refreshing. Duck Amuck is a great for some quick pick up and play gaming. It’s incredibly funny and the myriad of ways in which it uses the quirks of the DS are fantastic. What it lacks in longevity it more than makes up for in uniqueness and entertaining offerings. [FULL REVIEW: 7.5]
Make 10: A Journey of Numbers
Release Date: Out Now
Players:
Developer:
Publisher: Nintendo
So what is Make 10 all about? You basically journey through a fantasy world called the Make 10 Kingdom, where residents play mini-games which all revolve around making the numerical value ten, or multiples of ten. Despite the odd premise, it’s quite fun if you want to brush up on your basic maths skills. At a budget price of $49.95, it’s certainly worth a shot.
Our review said: While exploration and the story can get dull and unengaging, Make 10: A Journey of Numbers is still a quality title and is a nice change from Nintendo’s Training series. The game doesn’t take itself too seriously, there are over thirty mini-games to play, and the Trial Mountains presents challenge to players. That said, unless you want to brush up on your basic maths skills, there’s not a lot that will keep you interested. [FULL REVIEW: 7]
Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir
Release Date: Out Now
Players 1-2:
Developer: Big Fish Games
Publisher: Nintendo
MillionHeir is the latest entry in the popular seek-and-find series Mystery Case Files, which was previously only available via digital distribution on PC. The general gameplay hasn’t changed too much, you’ll still just be tapping away at the touch screen searching for specific objects in a cluttered environment. However, there are a few little gadgets that mix things up including X-Ray specs which are used to see objects within objects, and goggles that can see things underwater. A must for casual gamers.
Our review said: While the mechanics haven’t changed much from the PC titles, Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir is a worthy addition to the DS library. The game is perfect for quick pick up and play sessions, there’s a lot of replay value on offer, and as a whole everything is presented nicely. If you’re looking for something with depth though, there are better titles available. [FULL REVIEW: 7]
Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword
Release Date: Out Now
Players: 1
Developer: Team Ninja
Publisher: Tecmo
It must be awesome to be a fully fledged ninja. Lurking in the shadows, silently waiting until your targets pass by and then SLASH! Targets are dead, blood is everywhere. If that appeals to you, then do yourself a favour and pick up Dragon Sword, it’s easily one of the best action games we’ve played on the DS in a while.
Our review said: A game whose range of enemy fodder can sometimes become a bit samey. A Ninja Gaiden title that a large chunk of can be experienced in the same amount of time it takes to endure an unfairly designed console boss battle. Heck, there's the chance that your stylus arm might just very well grow tired after prolonged gameplay sessions. But now the nitpicking becomes self-evident. If overall length and challenge is how you decide your long-term game-related purchases, by all means, pass up Dragon Sword for any number of suitably padded gameplay experiences elsewhere. However, for those up to the satisfying progression of playing a game for sheer, dare it be said, "robust and visceral" enjoyment, Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword is just waiting to be unsheathed. [FULL REVIEW: 8.5]
Professor Kageyama's Maths Training: The Hundred Cell Calculation Method
Release Date: Out Now
Players: 1-16
Developer: Nintendo
Publisher: Nintendo
Maths: the perfect Christmas present… Well, maybe that’s stretching it a little, but Maths Training’s certainly a decent tile if you want to brush up on your maths skills or get the juices flowing before a hard day at work/school. No need to worry about doing the same old thing over and over again either – there’s plenty of different maths problems to solve and it’s definitely a lot more engaging than Advanced Maths Studies in high school.
Our review said: Maths was never a strong point of ours in high school. So, the prospect of reviewing a title which focuses exclusively on completing maths sums wasn't exactly that appealing too us. It says a lot about the quality of Professor Kageyama's Maths Training that even though the game is all about maths, we were never bored, heck we were enjoying the challenge of completing the problems in the quickest possible time. Maths Training isn't a "game" for everyone, it's ideal for younger children and easily the most educational piece of software on the Nintendo DS. But, because the problems are so easy to approach and the gameplay is so quick and goal oriented, even those who just want to brush up on their maths skills or enjoy the other Training games will get some enjoyment out of Maths Training. [FULL REVIEW: 7]
Professor Layton and the Curious Village
Release Date: Out Now
Players: 1
Developer: Level 5
Publisher: Nintendo
Just to make sure Professor Kageyama doesn’t take all the brain teasing fun, Professor Layton also managed to find his way into our buyer’s guide. Professor Layton and the Curious Village is a fine example of what every point-and-click adventure should be like. The game has a compelling story, plenty of challenging puzzles and, more importantly, is polished to near perfection. Arguably the best game available this year on the DS.
Our review said: As a whole, Professor Layton and the Curious Village is a game that will keep you occupied for hours. Whether you choose to play in short spurts or a marathon session, you'll find that its delightful combination of adventure, mystery and brain teasing fun will be worth every cent. [FULL REVIEW: 9]
Spectrobes: Beyond the Portals
Release Date: Out Now
Players: 1
Developer: Jupiter Corpporation
Publisher: Disney Interactive Studios
Given the popularity of the first Spectrobes title, it came as little surprise when Disney Interactive announced a sequel. Beyond the Portals continues the adventures of Rallen and Jeena as they uncover the origins of mysterious portals that lead to distant dimensions. Coupled with the trademark action of the previous game, it looks like another winner from Disney Interactive.
[FULL REVIEW: Coming Soon]
Sonic Chronicles: The Dark Brotherhood
Release Date: Out Now
Players: 1
Developer: BioWare
Publisher: Sega
Looks like Sonic has taken a page out of Mario’s book - instead of limiting himself to another platform adventure, the blue blur is now starring in his own RPG. Developed by the geniuses at BioWare, the team responsible for the Knights of the Old Republic games, Sonic Chronicles: The Dark Brotherhood is notably darker than your average Sonic game and should appease any die-hard fan.
Our review said: Unfortunately, Sonic Chronicles: The Dark Brotherhood is not the greatest start to what is obviously intended to be a new series in the Sonic franchise. The game suffers from a case of confused identity. While it’s obviously hoping to capture a younger audience with an easy introduction to the RPG genre, it also attempts to cater for more experienced RPG players and Sonic fans, and in doing so it succeeds at neither. The game’s battles and quests quickly become repetitive and its simple design leaves it feeling simply dull. If there’s to be any hope of this becoming a worthwhile series, Bioware needs to expand upon the good ideas they’ve laid the groundwork for, but failed to deliver on, in Sonic Chronicles: The Dark Brotherhood. A fast paced, action-packed RPG featuring Sonic is an admirable goal, but the mark has clearly been missed here. [FULL REVIEW: 6.5]
The World Ends with You
Release Date: Out Now
Players: 1
Developer: Square Enix – Jupiter
Publisher: Square Enix
Square Enix are on a role this year. The World Ends with You is an odd little title; it has a cast of wacky characters, touch screen and microphone functionality for combat, and an upbeat soundtrack. We really can’t put it into words with this brief summary, just go out and give the game a go. It’s one of those unique experiences that lets DS owners taunt their PSP-fanboy buddies.
Our review said: We absolutely have to tip our hats to Square Enix, who have simply outdone themselves here. With so many proven 'big' franchises under their belt, they could have easily just done a dip into the Final Fantasy or Dragon Quest pools, created another by-the-books RPG for the Nintendo DS and sat back grinning while the fanboys of said big franchises flocked to purchase it in spades. The fact that they have taken a step in the totally opposite direction and really attempted to do something different with such unique concepts makes this game worthy of a play-through all in itself. The fact that these concepts work so utterly well with one another is a testament to the kind of quality they are capable of, and should be noted by everybody that developers don't need to simply cruise by with the same overdone concepts time and time again. Originality is certainly not dead, and The World Ends With You absolute proof of this. While it may not seem initially appealing to everybody and the ideas behind the game are definitely 'out there', we highly recommend that you give this game an honest try, as we fail to see how you could be disappointed. [FULL REVIEW: 8.5]
Viva Pinata: Pocket Paradise
Release Date: Out Now
Players: 1
Developer: Rareware
Publisher: THQ
We were nuts about Viva Pinata on the Xbox 360, so it brought us tears of joy when Rare announced they were developing a Viva Pinata game for the DS. There’s really not a lot we can say, the game is everything the Xbox 360 version is minus the HD graphics and with the ability to trade piñatas with other players. Whether you’re a new comer or returning veteran, rest assure you won’t be disappointed – unless you hate candy-filled animals that is.
[FULL REVIEW: Coming Soon]
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