Our latest game reviews - Nintendo DS
1 year ago - 
Bejeweled 3 - 8.0
Almost every gamer in the world knows the name “PopCap Games”. For those of you (yeas, both of you) who are unfamiliar with the game developer, they are the makers of such obscure titles as Bejeweled, Zuma, Peggle, Bookworm and everybody’s favorite tower defense game, Plants Vs. Zombies. Which brings us to this review. Yes, they released another entry in the Bejeweled franchise. Released last year on PC, this follow-up to the massively successful Bejeweled 2 has now made its...
Bejeweled 3 - 8.0Almost every gamer in the world knows the name “PopCap Games”. For those of you (yeas, both of you) who are unfamiliar with the game developer, they are the makers of such obscure titles as Bejeweled, Zuma, Peggle, Bookworm and everybody’s favorite tower defense game, Plants Vs. Zombies. Which brings us to this review. Yes, they released another entry in the Bejeweled franchise. Released last year on PC, this follow-up to the massively successful Bejeweled 2 has now made its...
1 year ago - I Heart Geeks! - 7.3
While many of us were (and some still are) belittled for our geekdom during our youth, as adults, geeks are the new cool. So when I Heart Geeks, the first game to come from SevenOne Intermedia, hit my desk, my initial thought was some kind of Japanese dating-sim import. After sliding it into my DS, I quickly found that I was a bit off. Ok, I was WAY off. I Heart Geeks is almost the polar opposite, where geekdom is celebrated in the most obvious way we know how: stereotyped revenge... ...
I Heart Geeks! - 7.3While many of us were (and some still are) belittled for our geekdom during our youth, as adults, geeks are the new cool. So when I Heart Geeks, the first game to come from SevenOne Intermedia, hit my desk, my initial thought was some kind of Japanese dating-sim import. After sliding it into my DS, I quickly found that I was a bit off. Ok, I was WAY off. I Heart Geeks is almost the polar opposite, where geekdom is celebrated in the most obvious way we know how: stereotyped revenge... ...
1 year ago - Professor Layton And The Last Specter - 9.0
Mr Layton and I had yet to have been formally introduced until just recently. Not having a tremendous amount of time to game on my Nintendo DS (or now days, my 3DS), I have simply not had the opportunity to meet up with the esteemed Professor. He is known to me though, as I’ve spent a lot of time reading about his previous three adventures and how well the fans and critics have received them. So when the opportunity arose for me to assist Professor Layton in solving his latest case, I...
Professor Layton And The Last Specter - 9.0Mr Layton and I had yet to have been formally introduced until just recently. Not having a tremendous amount of time to game on my Nintendo DS (or now days, my 3DS), I have simply not had the opportunity to meet up with the esteemed Professor. He is known to me though, as I’ve spent a lot of time reading about his previous three adventures and how well the fans and critics have received them. So when the opportunity arose for me to assist Professor Layton in solving his latest case, I...
2 years ago - Radiant Historia - 8.8
It’s all about old school JRPG fun in Radiant Historia on the Nintendo DS. Coming from Atlus - who is well known for these kinds of titles - Radiant Historia really brought back the type of nostalgic experience we all grew up on. Packing several story arcs, time travel, side-view battles, side quests, magic, weapons, and the many trappings of a classic RPG; Radiant Historia has it all. Right off the bat I felt the thrill of the memories of days gone by for this genre. After a few...
Radiant Historia - 8.8It’s all about old school JRPG fun in Radiant Historia on the Nintendo DS. Coming from Atlus - who is well known for these kinds of titles - Radiant Historia really brought back the type of nostalgic experience we all grew up on. Packing several story arcs, time travel, side-view battles, side quests, magic, weapons, and the many trappings of a classic RPG; Radiant Historia has it all. Right off the bat I felt the thrill of the memories of days gone by for this genre. After a few...
2 years ago - Pokemon Black/White - 8.8
Gotta catch em all!! You probably had one of two reactions to that. Either you turned your head in disgust or you’re blood pressure skyrocketed as you jumped out of your chair looking for your life-size Pokeball. If the former is correct, stop reading this and go check out our Bulletstorm or Torchlight reviews. If the latter applies, I’m surprised you are actually even here as odds are you were one of the million people who already bought Pokemon Black or White on launch day......
Pokemon Black/White - 8.8Gotta catch em all!! You probably had one of two reactions to that. Either you turned your head in disgust or you’re blood pressure skyrocketed as you jumped out of your chair looking for your life-size Pokeball. If the former is correct, stop reading this and go check out our Bulletstorm or Torchlight reviews. If the latter applies, I’m surprised you are actually even here as odds are you were one of the million people who already bought Pokemon Black or White on launch day......
2 years ago - De Blob 2 - 7.2
It’s cute, it’s colorful, and it’s on the DS. That’s right, over the course of the last week, I sat down and worked my way through de Blob 2 from THQ and Syfy Kids. I rather enjoyed playing this platforming, color splashing blobby adventure as the squishy hero made his way through the various levels to stop evil Dr. Von Blot’s plans. Along the way, you will splash color around the world - both as you travel or during the various in level challenge missions - or...
De Blob 2 - 7.2It’s cute, it’s colorful, and it’s on the DS. That’s right, over the course of the last week, I sat down and worked my way through de Blob 2 from THQ and Syfy Kids. I rather enjoyed playing this platforming, color splashing blobby adventure as the squishy hero made his way through the various levels to stop evil Dr. Von Blot’s plans. Along the way, you will splash color around the world - both as you travel or during the various in level challenge missions - or...
2 years ago - Dragon Quest VI : Realms of Revelations - 7.8
With all the visual flashiness and narrative depth found in today’s RPGs, it’s very easy to feel buried and overwhelmed, especially for those who came up in the 8 and 16 bit era. While that’s the natural evolution of gaming - to provide a deeper and deeper experience - it can still be oft-putting. Some may long for the good old days of simplicity. Level grinding, melodramatic dialog, and visuals built upon pixels alone, those are just some of the facets that represent RPGs...
Dragon Quest VI : Realms of Revelations - 7.8With all the visual flashiness and narrative depth found in today’s RPGs, it’s very easy to feel buried and overwhelmed, especially for those who came up in the 8 and 16 bit era. While that’s the natural evolution of gaming - to provide a deeper and deeper experience - it can still be oft-putting. Some may long for the good old days of simplicity. Level grinding, melodramatic dialog, and visuals built upon pixels alone, those are just some of the facets that represent RPGs...
2 years ago - Kingdom Hearts Re:coded - 7.0
Spending a week with some familiar friends is always an interesting experience and this week, I’ve spent mine hanging out with Sora, Riku, Goofy, Donald, Mickey, and the rest of the Kingdom Hearts gang. Sitting down with my DS in hand, I plugged in Kingdom Hearts Re:coded and off I went once more into the worlds created by Disney and brought to digital life by Square-Enix. Having played the main arc of KH 1, Chain of Memories, 2, and checking out some of the off shoots, I was again...
Kingdom Hearts Re:coded - 7.0Spending a week with some familiar friends is always an interesting experience and this week, I’ve spent mine hanging out with Sora, Riku, Goofy, Donald, Mickey, and the rest of the Kingdom Hearts gang. Sitting down with my DS in hand, I plugged in Kingdom Hearts Re:coded and off I went once more into the worlds created by Disney and brought to digital life by Square-Enix. Having played the main arc of KH 1, Chain of Memories, 2, and checking out some of the off shoots, I was again...
2 years ago - Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Mini-Land Mayhem - 8.8
Since its launch nearly two years ago, there are have only been a handful of really enjoyable DSiWare titles. One of those highlights was the puzzle-platformer Mario vs Donkey Kong: Minis March Again. Since it essentially went under the radar, Nintendo decided to release the next game in the franchise, Mario vs Donkey Kong: Mini-Land Mayhem as a retail release. It takes a lot of the same mechanics and features of the DSi game, adds more content and gives fans of both the puzzle genre and of...
Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Mini-Land Mayhem - 8.8Since its launch nearly two years ago, there are have only been a handful of really enjoyable DSiWare titles. One of those highlights was the puzzle-platformer Mario vs Donkey Kong: Minis March Again. Since it essentially went under the radar, Nintendo decided to release the next game in the franchise, Mario vs Donkey Kong: Mini-Land Mayhem as a retail release. It takes a lot of the same mechanics and features of the DSi game, adds more content and gives fans of both the puzzle genre and of...
2 years ago - Etrian Odyssey III: The Drowned City - 8.3
The team at Atlus has once again packaged a daunting tale of fantastic depth, challenge and grandeur. In this third iteration we’re magically wisped away to the sea city of Armoroad and given license to explore the depths of a labyrinth that was created after "The Great Disaster" befell the land. Many other adventurers have tried and failed to explore the sunken city, so now here comes the player to pull some heroes together and make their way into the unknown to find out just...
Etrian Odyssey III: The Drowned City - 8.3The team at Atlus has once again packaged a daunting tale of fantastic depth, challenge and grandeur. In this third iteration we’re magically wisped away to the sea city of Armoroad and given license to explore the depths of a labyrinth that was created after "The Great Disaster" befell the land. Many other adventurers have tried and failed to explore the sunken city, so now here comes the player to pull some heroes together and make their way into the unknown to find out just...
2 years ago - Professor Layton and the Unwound Future - 8.9
There are times when we play video games because we want to have some mindless entertainment. Then there are times when we want to stimulate the brain and have a sense of accomplishment when we do something right or get past a challenging situation. The previous two North American releases of the Professor Layton series on the Nintendo DS has managed to offer not only fantastic stories and tons of content, but they have also been able to educate us. The third game in the series, Professor...
Professor Layton and the Unwound Future - 8.9There are times when we play video games because we want to have some mindless entertainment. Then there are times when we want to stimulate the brain and have a sense of accomplishment when we do something right or get past a challenging situation. The previous two North American releases of the Professor Layton series on the Nintendo DS has managed to offer not only fantastic stories and tons of content, but they have also been able to educate us. The third game in the series, Professor...
2 years ago - Dragon Quest IX : Sentinels of the Starry Skies - 9.6
For me, Dragon Quest is sort of like Final Fantasy’s tag team partner. Both Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest - then known as Dragon Warrior - were the first real RPG franchises to get me hooked on the genre. While both have had a storied past and each have gone their own separate directions, they also both hold a special place in my heart. We are now on Dragon Quest’s ninth entry in the franchise (not counting the many spin-offs), and don’t let the fact that it’s...
Dragon Quest IX : Sentinels of the Starry Skies - 9.6For me, Dragon Quest is sort of like Final Fantasy’s tag team partner. Both Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest - then known as Dragon Warrior - were the first real RPG franchises to get me hooked on the genre. While both have had a storied past and each have gone their own separate directions, they also both hold a special place in my heart. We are now on Dragon Quest’s ninth entry in the franchise (not counting the many spin-offs), and don’t let the fact that it’s...
2 years ago - Transformers: War for Cybertron - Decepticons - 5.8
Transformers: War For Cybertron for the Xbox 360/PS3 came out of the gate as a pleasant surprise for fans of the brand, finally giving the franchise a proper video game treatment after years of dismal tie-ins. Taking a title to other hardware platforms can be a risky prospect as there will surely be differences that will ultimately be compared to the superior version (in this case, the Xbox 360/PS3). The Wii edition of War For Cybertron has already failed to live up to the expectation. Does...
Transformers: War for Cybertron - Decepticons - 5.8Transformers: War For Cybertron for the Xbox 360/PS3 came out of the gate as a pleasant surprise for fans of the brand, finally giving the franchise a proper video game treatment after years of dismal tie-ins. Taking a title to other hardware platforms can be a risky prospect as there will surely be differences that will ultimately be compared to the superior version (in this case, the Xbox 360/PS3). The Wii edition of War For Cybertron has already failed to live up to the expectation. Does...
2 years ago - Transformers: War for Cybertron - Autobots - 5.8
Transformers: War For Cybertron for the Xbox 360/PS3 came out of the gate as a pleasant surprise for fans of the brand, finally giving the franchise a proper video game treatment after years of dismal tie-ins. Taking a title to other hardware platforms can be a risky prospect as there will surely be differences that will ultimately be compared to the superior version (in this case, the Xbox 360/PS3). The Wii edition of War For Cybertron has already failed to live up to the expectation. Does...
Transformers: War for Cybertron - Autobots - 5.8Transformers: War For Cybertron for the Xbox 360/PS3 came out of the gate as a pleasant surprise for fans of the brand, finally giving the franchise a proper video game treatment after years of dismal tie-ins. Taking a title to other hardware platforms can be a risky prospect as there will surely be differences that will ultimately be compared to the superior version (in this case, the Xbox 360/PS3). The Wii edition of War For Cybertron has already failed to live up to the expectation. Does...
2 years ago - Dementium II - 7.8
Since its release in 2007, Dementium: The Ward has stood apart from other DS games. While other first-person titles like Moon and Metroid Prime Hunters offered solid sci-fi shooting, Dementium’s creepy atmosphere is unparalleled on the platform. Dementium II steps up that creepiness through the graphics and gameplay to deliver a thoroughly satisfying sequel. However, the game falls short of greatness due to some serious problems inherited from its predecessor. ...
Dementium II - 7.8Since its release in 2007, Dementium: The Ward has stood apart from other DS games. While other first-person titles like Moon and Metroid Prime Hunters offered solid sci-fi shooting, Dementium’s creepy atmosphere is unparalleled on the platform. Dementium II steps up that creepiness through the graphics and gameplay to deliver a thoroughly satisfying sequel. However, the game falls short of greatness due to some serious problems inherited from its predecessor. ...
3 years ago - Again - 4.5
The Nintendo DS is home to a lot of appealing titles and developers have not shied away from trying new things. Some interesting genres that have appeared in recent years include the "interactive novel" where your DS becomes a book and you play through an adventure. The latest game in that genre is Again from Cing, the famed people who brought us the critically acclaimed Hotel Dusk, the title that brought the genre to the masses. In what should have been a fantastic mystery title,...
Again - 4.5The Nintendo DS is home to a lot of appealing titles and developers have not shied away from trying new things. Some interesting genres that have appeared in recent years include the "interactive novel" where your DS becomes a book and you play through an adventure. The latest game in that genre is Again from Cing, the famed people who brought us the critically acclaimed Hotel Dusk, the title that brought the genre to the masses. In what should have been a fantastic mystery title,...
3 years ago - How To Train Your Dragon - 7.6
(We usually put screenshots but Activision failed to provide screens at the time of posting) I’ve always been a strong believer that it’s a difficult task for developers to make games that tie into the children’s movies. The cycle for development has a strict deadline, for one. I mean, the game has to be ready to go at roughly the same time as the movie and sometimes even weeks before. Game makers also don’t have as much familiarity with the subject matter as the...
How To Train Your Dragon - 7.6(We usually put screenshots but Activision failed to provide screens at the time of posting) I’ve always been a strong believer that it’s a difficult task for developers to make games that tie into the children’s movies. The cycle for development has a strict deadline, for one. I mean, the game has to be ready to go at roughly the same time as the movie and sometimes even weeks before. Game makers also don’t have as much familiarity with the subject matter as the...
3 years ago - (DSiWare) Globulos Party - 5.5
If you read my most recent DSiWare review, you already know how apprehensive I am about DSiWare releases. It seems like, for every great game, five more pieces of boring shovelware pop up on the service. And this, sadly, is the case for Globulos Party, a game that has almost everything you could ask for in a DSiWare game, except the fun. For 500 Nintendo Points ($5), Globulos Party features colorful little blobs, the Globolus, as the playable characters. The game is simple: draw an...
(DSiWare) Globulos Party - 5.5If you read my most recent DSiWare review, you already know how apprehensive I am about DSiWare releases. It seems like, for every great game, five more pieces of boring shovelware pop up on the service. And this, sadly, is the case for Globulos Party, a game that has almost everything you could ask for in a DSiWare game, except the fun. For 500 Nintendo Points ($5), Globulos Party features colorful little blobs, the Globolus, as the playable characters. The game is simple: draw an...
3 years ago - Pokemon SoulSilver Version - 8.3
As an old school fan of the Pokémon franchise, it’s a pleasure to see it alive and well after all these years. Playing HeartGold and SoulSilver brought back memories of yesteryear, sitting there with Gold and Silver on the Gameboy Color. Yep, I may be an adult, but I still love these cute little monsters that battle it out to become legends and ultimately bring the player to the Promised Land of the Pokémon League Champion title. Gameplay The story in these...
Pokemon SoulSilver Version - 8.3As an old school fan of the Pokémon franchise, it’s a pleasure to see it alive and well after all these years. Playing HeartGold and SoulSilver brought back memories of yesteryear, sitting there with Gold and Silver on the Gameboy Color. Yep, I may be an adult, but I still love these cute little monsters that battle it out to become legends and ultimately bring the player to the Promised Land of the Pokémon League Champion title. Gameplay The story in these...
3 years ago - Pokemon HeartGold Version - 8.3
As an old school fan of the Pokémon franchise, it’s a pleasure to see it alive and well after all these years. Playing HeartGold and SoulSilver brought back memories of yesteryear, sitting there with Gold and Silver on the Gameboy Color. Yep, I may be an adult, but I still love these cute little monsters that battle it out to become legends and ultimately bring the player to the Promised Land of the Pokémon League Champion title. Gameplay The story in these versions, are...
Pokemon HeartGold Version - 8.3As an old school fan of the Pokémon franchise, it’s a pleasure to see it alive and well after all these years. Playing HeartGold and SoulSilver brought back memories of yesteryear, sitting there with Gold and Silver on the Gameboy Color. Yep, I may be an adult, but I still love these cute little monsters that battle it out to become legends and ultimately bring the player to the Promised Land of the Pokémon League Champion title. Gameplay The story in these versions, are...
3 years ago - WarioWare D.I.Y. - 8.2
If you are already aware of the WarioWare franchise, then you know about its quirky, comedic and unique microgames. After a few interesting releases since the first WarioWare, on the Game Boy Advance, and my all-time favourite, Smooth Moves for the Wii, Nintendo has released WarioWare D.I.Y. (or Do It Yourself) on the Nintendo DS. In it, you get to play the most ingenious and funny content ever, your own. Heavily inspired by the 1992 Super Nintendo release, Mario Paint, D.I.Y. gives players...
WarioWare D.I.Y. - 8.2If you are already aware of the WarioWare franchise, then you know about its quirky, comedic and unique microgames. After a few interesting releases since the first WarioWare, on the Game Boy Advance, and my all-time favourite, Smooth Moves for the Wii, Nintendo has released WarioWare D.I.Y. (or Do It Yourself) on the Nintendo DS. In it, you get to play the most ingenious and funny content ever, your own. Heavily inspired by the 1992 Super Nintendo release, Mario Paint, D.I.Y. gives players...
3 years ago - Sonic Classic Collection - 6.5
SEGA, creator of many great game franchises, remains one of the videogame companies closest to my heart. Not necessarily for what they have done in the current console cycle but mostly due to its massive contribution to the gaming industry in the nineties. So I was curious to see this new Sonic Classic Collection (which includes Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic 2, Sonic 3, and Sonic & Knuckles) in action on my DS. Can you believe it’s the first time these classic Sonic games have appeared...
Sonic Classic Collection - 6.5SEGA, creator of many great game franchises, remains one of the videogame companies closest to my heart. Not necessarily for what they have done in the current console cycle but mostly due to its massive contribution to the gaming industry in the nineties. So I was curious to see this new Sonic Classic Collection (which includes Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic 2, Sonic 3, and Sonic & Knuckles) in action on my DS. Can you believe it’s the first time these classic Sonic games have appeared...
3 years ago - (DSiWare) Save The Turltles - 8.7
Since Nintendo launched the DSi last year, and the DSi XL twelve months later, the quality of titles on the DSiWare platform has been inconsistent. Dr.Mario Express, Bookworm, Mario vs Donkey Kong: Minis March Again and Flipnote Studio are some of the few highlights the service has to offer and, while there’s still a lot of potential, DSiWare remains the black sheep among digital download services, no matter what Nintendo says. I download every single game that looks like it’s...
(DSiWare) Save The Turltles - 8.7Since Nintendo launched the DSi last year, and the DSi XL twelve months later, the quality of titles on the DSiWare platform has been inconsistent. Dr.Mario Express, Bookworm, Mario vs Donkey Kong: Minis March Again and Flipnote Studio are some of the few highlights the service has to offer and, while there’s still a lot of potential, DSiWare remains the black sheep among digital download services, no matter what Nintendo says. I download every single game that looks like it’s...
3 years ago - Infinite Space - 8.2
I’ve been craving some galaxy cruising action. I haven’t played a decent space exploration game since Star Fleet Academy for SNES. Despite being released a year ago in Japan, Infinite Space is packed with enough space age RPG gameplay to satisfy any sci-fi fiend. Gameplay Infinite Space follows the story of Yuri, an adolescent boy with a dream to escape the gravity of his home planet and explore the “sea of stars”. Yuri soon meets a...
Infinite Space - 8.2I’ve been craving some galaxy cruising action. I haven’t played a decent space exploration game since Star Fleet Academy for SNES. Despite being released a year ago in Japan, Infinite Space is packed with enough space age RPG gameplay to satisfy any sci-fi fiend. Gameplay Infinite Space follows the story of Yuri, an adolescent boy with a dream to escape the gravity of his home planet and explore the “sea of stars”. Yuri soon meets a...
3 years ago - Crime Scene - 7.6
Crime Scene DS puts you in the shoes of a forensic inspector and challenges you to interview witnesses, find clues and ultimately solve crimes. The game does a good job providing you a wide array of evidence gathering gadgets, though lack of replay value and some cheesy minigames can spoil the mood. Gameplay The game begins with Matt Simmons’ first day on the job of the police forensics team. You’ll have to help him prove his worth to superiors while learning the ins...
Crime Scene - 7.6Crime Scene DS puts you in the shoes of a forensic inspector and challenges you to interview witnesses, find clues and ultimately solve crimes. The game does a good job providing you a wide array of evidence gathering gadgets, though lack of replay value and some cheesy minigames can spoil the mood. Gameplay The game begins with Matt Simmons’ first day on the job of the police forensics team. You’ll have to help him prove his worth to superiors while learning the ins...
3 years ago - Ragnarok - 7.4
Ragnarok DS is the mobile version of the popular MMORPG for PC, Ragnarok Online. The original game was released in 2001 and based on a South Korean comic book. Since then, the franchise has spawned an animated series, several mobile phone games and a PC sequel, which is currently in development. Ragnarok DS offers an accessible way for gamers to see what’s made the franchise so successful. Gameplay Ragnarok DS looks and plays like a classic RPG game. Between the...
Ragnarok - 7.4Ragnarok DS is the mobile version of the popular MMORPG for PC, Ragnarok Online. The original game was released in 2001 and based on a South Korean comic book. Since then, the franchise has spawned an animated series, several mobile phone games and a PC sequel, which is currently in development. Ragnarok DS offers an accessible way for gamers to see what’s made the franchise so successful. Gameplay Ragnarok DS looks and plays like a classic RPG game. Between the...
3 years ago - Glory of Heracles - 7.0
There are those that absolutely want nothing to change and then there are those that very much enjoy something different. If you look at video games, it’s almost always important to give gamers something different if you want your game to succeed. The Nintendo DS is no stranger to RPGs and one of the latest titles is Glory of Heracles. The long running series has been available in Japan for years and only now is Nintendo bringing the series to North America. It doesn’t...
Glory of Heracles - 7.0There are those that absolutely want nothing to change and then there are those that very much enjoy something different. If you look at video games, it’s almost always important to give gamers something different if you want your game to succeed. The Nintendo DS is no stranger to RPGs and one of the latest titles is Glory of Heracles. The long running series has been available in Japan for years and only now is Nintendo bringing the series to North America. It doesn’t...
3 years ago - Sands of Destruction - 8.0
When it comes to JRPG’s, there’s always a few things you can count on. The hero is an ordinary boy, destined for greatness. That hero will often meet up with like minded individuals in order to vanquish their foes. After numerous random encounters, there will be a final boss that usually requires an epic amount of punishment to defeat. If you have any hope of creating a JRPG, these elements seem to be essential, with the rarest of exceptions. ImageEpoch, for its part, seem to...
Sands of Destruction - 8.0When it comes to JRPG’s, there’s always a few things you can count on. The hero is an ordinary boy, destined for greatness. That hero will often meet up with like minded individuals in order to vanquish their foes. After numerous random encounters, there will be a final boss that usually requires an epic amount of punishment to defeat. If you have any hope of creating a JRPG, these elements seem to be essential, with the rarest of exceptions. ImageEpoch, for its part, seem to...
3 years ago - Dragon Ball Z: Attack of the Saiyans - 7.2
Seems like there’s been a rash of Dragon Ball games released as of late. Most recently, a new roleplaying game from Monolith Soft and Namco Bandai came out which centers around the tail end of the original Dragon Ball series and leads into the entirety of the Saiyan Saga. But how does it stack up? We’re about to find out. Gameplay Attack of the Saiyans is a fairly typical, turn-based JRPG. You can have up to three characters in your party and they each have their own unique...
Dragon Ball Z: Attack of the Saiyans - 7.2Seems like there’s been a rash of Dragon Ball games released as of late. Most recently, a new roleplaying game from Monolith Soft and Namco Bandai came out which centers around the tail end of the original Dragon Ball series and leads into the entirety of the Saiyan Saga. But how does it stack up? We’re about to find out. Gameplay Attack of the Saiyans is a fairly typical, turn-based JRPG. You can have up to three characters in your party and they each have their own unique...
3 years ago - The Legend of Zelda : Spirit Tracks - 9.1
When it comes to adventure games, The Legend of Zelda series has always been consistent in giving gamers a worth-while experience. The last major release in the series, Phantom Hourglass, was viewed by many as an incredible entry in the series and brought with it a new way to play. Yes, it did have its detractors who did not really enjoy the idea of controlling Link using only the stylus, but despite that issue, you could not deny the game’s great story or fantastic environments....
The Legend of Zelda : Spirit Tracks - 9.1When it comes to adventure games, The Legend of Zelda series has always been consistent in giving gamers a worth-while experience. The last major release in the series, Phantom Hourglass, was viewed by many as an incredible entry in the series and brought with it a new way to play. Yes, it did have its detractors who did not really enjoy the idea of controlling Link using only the stylus, but despite that issue, you could not deny the game’s great story or fantastic environments....
3 years ago - Call of Duty: Modern Warfare - Mobilized - 5.6
As most of you don’t need to be told, Modern Warfare 2 has been a phenomenon in gaming history. It has shattered sales records, online play records, and soon will more-than-likely shatter content download records. Modern Warfare: Mobilized is a DS incarnation of the Modern Warfare series set to capitalize on the release of Modern Warfare 2, however, is Mobilized something noteworthy for DS owners or Modern Warfare 2 players or a game lacking substance designed as a cash-in on Modern...
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare - Mobilized - 5.6As most of you don’t need to be told, Modern Warfare 2 has been a phenomenon in gaming history. It has shattered sales records, online play records, and soon will more-than-likely shatter content download records. Modern Warfare: Mobilized is a DS incarnation of the Modern Warfare series set to capitalize on the release of Modern Warfare 2, however, is Mobilized something noteworthy for DS owners or Modern Warfare 2 players or a game lacking substance designed as a cash-in on Modern...
3 years ago - Kingdom Hearts 358/2 - 8.0
Written by Mike Washburn Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days is the story of Roxas, the “heartless” version of the series’ main protagonist, Sora. Organization XIII, a group of powerful “Nobodies” or beings without hearts, has recruited Roxas as its newest member, and the story of this game revolves predominately around developing the story of Roxas and the Organization. Gameplay 358/2 Days is not a continuation, but more of a development of the story from Kingdom...
Kingdom Hearts 358/2 - 8.0Written by Mike Washburn Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days is the story of Roxas, the “heartless” version of the series’ main protagonist, Sora. Organization XIII, a group of powerful “Nobodies” or beings without hearts, has recruited Roxas as its newest member, and the story of this game revolves predominately around developing the story of Roxas and the Organization. Gameplay 358/2 Days is not a continuation, but more of a development of the story from Kingdom...
3 years ago - Nostalgia - 7.6
When re-making or producing 16-bit era inspired role playing games, the Nintendo DS is where all the developers flock. The latest game to bring back those fond memories of the 90’s is Ignition Entertainment and their latest release, Nostalgia. This surprisingly enjoyable RPG will certainly remind you of your youth; at the same time, you will also long for something new. Gameplay The story behind Nostalgia takes place in a re-imagined 19th Century Earth. In this world, travel is...
Nostalgia - 7.6When re-making or producing 16-bit era inspired role playing games, the Nintendo DS is where all the developers flock. The latest game to bring back those fond memories of the 90’s is Ignition Entertainment and their latest release, Nostalgia. This surprisingly enjoyable RPG will certainly remind you of your youth; at the same time, you will also long for something new. Gameplay The story behind Nostalgia takes place in a re-imagined 19th Century Earth. In this world, travel is...
3 years ago - Space Invaders Extreme 2 - 9.0
Ah the arcade. Oh the number of quarters I’ve blown and time I’ve wasted away playing those wondrous machines. Back in 1978, quite a few years before I was born, the first Space Invaders game came out in arcades. Luckily the game made the jump to consoles which gave me a chance, at a very young age, to play the game. Now Taito thinks they can re-invent the arcade classic with the Extreme series on DS. The big question though is did they do a good job at re-inventing such a...
Space Invaders Extreme 2 - 9.0Ah the arcade. Oh the number of quarters I’ve blown and time I’ve wasted away playing those wondrous machines. Back in 1978, quite a few years before I was born, the first Space Invaders game came out in arcades. Luckily the game made the jump to consoles which gave me a chance, at a very young age, to play the game. Now Taito thinks they can re-invent the arcade classic with the Extreme series on DS. The big question though is did they do a good job at re-inventing such a...
3 years ago - Scribblenauts - 8.2
Since the DS was released, few developers have managed to create a game that fully embraces the touch-screen based technology. While it would be sacrilegious to not give kudos to games like GTA: Chinatown Wars, The World Ends With You, Zelda: Phantom Hourglass and of course Nintendogs for what they did, developer 5th Cell presented back in 2007 a little game called Drawn To Life, which did not receive much media attention but did serve as an idea of what would be the next groundbreaking DS...
Scribblenauts - 8.2Since the DS was released, few developers have managed to create a game that fully embraces the touch-screen based technology. While it would be sacrilegious to not give kudos to games like GTA: Chinatown Wars, The World Ends With You, Zelda: Phantom Hourglass and of course Nintendogs for what they did, developer 5th Cell presented back in 2007 a little game called Drawn To Life, which did not receive much media attention but did serve as an idea of what would be the next groundbreaking DS...
3 years ago - Professor Layton & The Diabolical Box - 9.0
In early 2008, the Western World was introduced to Professor Layton and his inquisitive ways. The game, which had already two successful titles in Japan, took the Brain Teasers so many children and adults grew up with and combined it with an incredible mystery. Now in 2009, the second game in the series, Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box has hit stores and it still manages to bring everything that made the first game such a cult hit and continues to prove that games can be both fun and...
Professor Layton & The Diabolical Box - 9.0In early 2008, the Western World was introduced to Professor Layton and his inquisitive ways. The game, which had already two successful titles in Japan, took the Brain Teasers so many children and adults grew up with and combined it with an incredible mystery. Now in 2009, the second game in the series, Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box has hit stores and it still manages to bring everything that made the first game such a cult hit and continues to prove that games can be both fun and...
3 years ago - Overlord: Minions - 5.7
The Overlord series is finally making its debut on the Nintendo DS. Much like the on the Wii, the series is taking a slightly different direction than the Xbox 360/PS3 games. This time, rather than focusing the story on the Overlord himself, the DS game centers on those loveable, mischievous Minions. Does the handheld title live up to its console big brothers’ legacy? Can the Minions steal the spotlight from the series’ main man? Gameplay The game begins with Gnarl, the head...
Overlord: Minions - 5.7The Overlord series is finally making its debut on the Nintendo DS. Much like the on the Wii, the series is taking a slightly different direction than the Xbox 360/PS3 games. This time, rather than focusing the story on the Overlord himself, the DS game centers on those loveable, mischievous Minions. Does the handheld title live up to its console big brothers’ legacy? Can the Minions steal the spotlight from the series’ main man? Gameplay The game begins with Gnarl, the head...
3 years ago - MySims Racing - 7.4
The MySims series has experimented with almost every family-friendly genre out there now. The latest offering, MySims Racing, is about one of the last areas those cute little Sim-like individuals have yet to explore. Out now for the Wii and DS, the series looks to topple a certain portly plumber and his friends by offering a more customizable experience, complete with story-mode. Are they able to do it? Let’s check it out. GameplayThe Wii and DS versions of MySims Racing are very...
MySims Racing - 7.4The MySims series has experimented with almost every family-friendly genre out there now. The latest offering, MySims Racing, is about one of the last areas those cute little Sim-like individuals have yet to explore. Out now for the Wii and DS, the series looks to topple a certain portly plumber and his friends by offering a more customizable experience, complete with story-mode. Are they able to do it? Let’s check it out. GameplayThe Wii and DS versions of MySims Racing are very...
3 years ago - Guitar Hero On Tour: Modern Hits - 8.3
It’s hard to believe, but Guitar Hero is making its third appearance on the Nintendo DS since its debut in June of 2008. The formula for Guitar Hero on a portable was met with a bit of skepticism, but in the long run, the excellent gameplay proved to lend itself to whatever gaming device it appears on. Does Guitar Hero On Tour: Modern Hits live up to the previous outing, or is it time for this rocker to call it quits and find a respectable job? Gameplay Vicarious Visions haven’t...
Guitar Hero On Tour: Modern Hits - 8.3It’s hard to believe, but Guitar Hero is making its third appearance on the Nintendo DS since its debut in June of 2008. The formula for Guitar Hero on a portable was met with a bit of skepticism, but in the long run, the excellent gameplay proved to lend itself to whatever gaming device it appears on. Does Guitar Hero On Tour: Modern Hits live up to the previous outing, or is it time for this rocker to call it quits and find a respectable job? Gameplay Vicarious Visions haven’t...
3 years ago - (DSiWare) Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Minis March Again - 8.9
Nintendo surprised us all with the announcement of Mario vs Donkey Kong: Minis March Again during the E3 conference and if you have been waiting to use those 1000 free DSi Points you obtained when you purchased and registered your DSi, maybe now you have that opportunity. We take a look to see if this is a must own game and perfect expansion you’ve been looking to spend those point on your new DSI, or not. GameplayMario vs Donky Kong: Minis March Again is an expansion to the 2006...
(DSiWare) Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Minis March Again - 8.9Nintendo surprised us all with the announcement of Mario vs Donkey Kong: Minis March Again during the E3 conference and if you have been waiting to use those 1000 free DSi Points you obtained when you purchased and registered your DSi, maybe now you have that opportunity. We take a look to see if this is a must own game and perfect expansion you’ve been looking to spend those point on your new DSI, or not. GameplayMario vs Donky Kong: Minis March Again is an expansion to the 2006...
3 years ago - The Legendary Starfy - 8.4
When it comes to 2D platform adventures, you can always expect great quality when it comes from Nintendo. That holds true for The Legendary Starfy, the fifth game in the long running series developed by Tose which sees its first release in North America. This quirky platformer will certainly be enjoyed by kids under the age of twelve but will anyone else find it enjoyable?GameplayTrying to explain the story behind Starfy can be quite a handful. He’s not exactly a Star but he’s...
The Legendary Starfy - 8.4When it comes to 2D platform adventures, you can always expect great quality when it comes from Nintendo. That holds true for The Legendary Starfy, the fifth game in the long running series developed by Tose which sees its first release in North America. This quirky platformer will certainly be enjoyed by kids under the age of twelve but will anyone else find it enjoyable?GameplayTrying to explain the story behind Starfy can be quite a handful. He’s not exactly a Star but he’s...
3 years ago - Professor Heinz Wolff's Gravity - 4.4
Thanks to the touch and motion capabilities of both the Nintendo DS and the Wii it has opened the door for some really creative titles that go beyond the normal scope of gaming. Deep Silver’s Professor Heinz Wolff’s Gravity is the latest puzzle game that attempts to give gamers a new and extremely different experience for both consoles. While it sounds like a great concept on paper, how does it ultimately measure up? Gameplay Chances are unless you lived in Britain in the 70s...
Professor Heinz Wolff's Gravity - 4.4Thanks to the touch and motion capabilities of both the Nintendo DS and the Wii it has opened the door for some really creative titles that go beyond the normal scope of gaming. Deep Silver’s Professor Heinz Wolff’s Gravity is the latest puzzle game that attempts to give gamers a new and extremely different experience for both consoles. While it sounds like a great concept on paper, how does it ultimately measure up? Gameplay Chances are unless you lived in Britain in the 70s...
3 years ago - Valkyrie Profile: Covenant of the Plume - 8.1
In the snow that falls after the battle, the Valkyrie takes her chosen fallen to Valhalla. In their place, a single plume from her wing, a reminder to their families that their loved one fought and died bravely. Valkyrie Profile: Covenant of the Plume is quite different than you would expect from its Norse mythology beginnings. Even though the spirit of the series is retained, is it worth your time and money?GameplayThis bloodthirsty, mature story doesn’t focus on Lenneth, Valkyrie...
Valkyrie Profile: Covenant of the Plume - 8.1In the snow that falls after the battle, the Valkyrie takes her chosen fallen to Valhalla. In their place, a single plume from her wing, a reminder to their families that their loved one fought and died bravely. Valkyrie Profile: Covenant of the Plume is quite different than you would expect from its Norse mythology beginnings. Even though the spirit of the series is retained, is it worth your time and money?GameplayThis bloodthirsty, mature story doesn’t focus on Lenneth, Valkyrie...
4 years ago - Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Echoes of Time - 7.6
The Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles series has returned with its third multiplayer edition and its second go round on Nintendo DS with Echoes of Time. Unlike the previous game, Rings of Fate, which consisted of both a single and multi player story, this edition allows you to experience the same story either alone or with friends. Depending on how you choose to take on the adventure will ultimately determine how much you will enjoy the end product.GameplayWithout going into too much detail...
Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Echoes of Time - 7.6The Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles series has returned with its third multiplayer edition and its second go round on Nintendo DS with Echoes of Time. Unlike the previous game, Rings of Fate, which consisted of both a single and multi player story, this edition allows you to experience the same story either alone or with friends. Depending on how you choose to take on the adventure will ultimately determine how much you will enjoy the end product.GameplayWithout going into too much detail...
4 years ago - Elite Forces: Unit 77 - 4.9
By Steve ClareDeep Silver’s Elite Forces: Unit 77 employs simplistic story paired with a nostalgic throwback to an 80’s game mechanics to grab the interest of gamers on their summer break as well as seasoned gamers. With so few titles rising above the bedlam of cookie-cutter titles on the DS, it’s a real surprise when we come across these gems. Elite Forces: Unit 77, however, is not among these and instead is a frustrating, mindless shooter. GameplayThere is nothing...
Elite Forces: Unit 77 - 4.9By Steve ClareDeep Silver’s Elite Forces: Unit 77 employs simplistic story paired with a nostalgic throwback to an 80’s game mechanics to grab the interest of gamers on their summer break as well as seasoned gamers. With so few titles rising above the bedlam of cookie-cutter titles on the DS, it’s a real surprise when we come across these gems. Elite Forces: Unit 77, however, is not among these and instead is a frustrating, mindless shooter. GameplayThere is nothing...
4 years ago - Pok?mon Platinum - 8.2
You will be hard pressed to find a gamer in the last decade who has not laid their hands on a Pokémon game. The series has been a success spawning numerous portable and console games and continues to attract gamers of all ages. While the DS was graced with its own Pokémon RPG in 2007 with Diamond and Pearl, a new, third release has finally hit stores with Pokémon Platinum. Does this edition promise enough new features to warrant a purchase? GameplayIf you’re one of...
Pok?mon Platinum - 8.2You will be hard pressed to find a gamer in the last decade who has not laid their hands on a Pokémon game. The series has been a success spawning numerous portable and console games and continues to attract gamers of all ages. While the DS was graced with its own Pokémon RPG in 2007 with Diamond and Pearl, a new, third release has finally hit stores with Pokémon Platinum. Does this edition promise enough new features to warrant a purchase? GameplayIf you’re one of...
4 years ago - Lux-Pain - 5.5
Lux-Pain was released a year ago almost to the day in Japan and has now arrived in North America and Europe. The game has an interesting premise and some neat ideas, but many people will want a little less conversation and a little more action, in this unsettling adventure game, developed by Killaware and published by Ignition Entertainment. GameplayLux-Pain leans heavily on its story to keep players interested, because the actual gameplay is repetitive and unoriginal. Fortunately, the...
Lux-Pain - 5.5Lux-Pain was released a year ago almost to the day in Japan and has now arrived in North America and Europe. The game has an interesting premise and some neat ideas, but many people will want a little less conversation and a little more action, in this unsettling adventure game, developed by Killaware and published by Ignition Entertainment. GameplayLux-Pain leans heavily on its story to keep players interested, because the actual gameplay is repetitive and unoriginal. Fortunately, the...
4 years ago - Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars - 9.5
I remember being at the Nintendo E3 2008 press conference when they announced the arrival of the GTA franchise to the Nintendo DS…it had to happen one day knowing how popular the lovely handheld from Nintendo had become among grown-ups. I’ll admit I was sitting there at the Nintendo conference and asked myself if it was going to be “that” great. Then…Grand Theft Auto Advance popped in my head. Back in 2004, it was a good game. Actually, I spent more time...
Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars - 9.5I remember being at the Nintendo E3 2008 press conference when they announced the arrival of the GTA franchise to the Nintendo DS…it had to happen one day knowing how popular the lovely handheld from Nintendo had become among grown-ups. I’ll admit I was sitting there at the Nintendo conference and asked myself if it was going to be “that” great. Then…Grand Theft Auto Advance popped in my head. Back in 2004, it was a good game. Actually, I spent more time...
4 years ago - Blue Dragon Plus - 6.2
Blue Dragon is one of the first good role playing games on the Xbox 360 and there was much excitement by gamers in Japan and elsewhere when this series was rumored and eventually confirmed to be moving to the Nintendo DS. Finally after a long wait the game has come to the Nintendo handheld and brings us a new mechanic system and updated story in this continuation of the Blue Dragon story line. The story of Blue Dragon Plus takes place once year after the events of the first Blue Dragon. Shu...
Blue Dragon Plus - 6.2Blue Dragon is one of the first good role playing games on the Xbox 360 and there was much excitement by gamers in Japan and elsewhere when this series was rumored and eventually confirmed to be moving to the Nintendo DS. Finally after a long wait the game has come to the Nintendo handheld and brings us a new mechanic system and updated story in this continuation of the Blue Dragon story line. The story of Blue Dragon Plus takes place once year after the events of the first Blue Dragon. Shu...
4 years ago - Dragon Quest V: Hand of the Heavenly Bride - 9.1
In 1992 Japan saw the release of a massive epic role playing game called Dragon Quest V: Hand of the Heavenly Bride for the Super Famicom (Super Nintendo Entertainment System) but it never made its way over the Pacific to North American shores unless you imported it and even when it was “remade” for the Playstation 2 this version also never hit North America. It appears that Square Enix has finally heard the angry cries of Dragon Quest fans and released a Nintendo DS version of...
Dragon Quest V: Hand of the Heavenly Bride - 9.1In 1992 Japan saw the release of a massive epic role playing game called Dragon Quest V: Hand of the Heavenly Bride for the Super Famicom (Super Nintendo Entertainment System) but it never made its way over the Pacific to North American shores unless you imported it and even when it was “remade” for the Playstation 2 this version also never hit North America. It appears that Square Enix has finally heard the angry cries of Dragon Quest fans and released a Nintendo DS version of...
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