Developer: Intelligent Systems
Publisher: Nintendo
I picked up this game, and after all the hype and praise it's recieved, I conclude that it is so deserving. I never played the original for the GBA, so I really can't give a comparitive analysis between the two, but I'm loving this game. To give a basic overview of the how the game works, it is a turn-based strategy game, that is a lot more strategy than most other games in this genre; building up an unstoppable military force won't get you anywhere fast. The gameplay, although fairly simple in presentation and execution is surprisingly very complex when taking strategy into consideration. The depth of the game really astounded me to be honest, having to take into account: Weapon types, fuel, power, funds, forts, terrain types, and weather conditions, to name a few key elements. Even more engaging is the plethora of different Commanding Officers (CO's) in the game, all with their own unique advantages and shortcomings on the battle fields, in addition to multiple skills that can be used during battle. I'd also like to give many kudos to Intelligent Systems for living up to its name and producing very challenging and smart AI. Really refreshing, especially since I only own one cartridge and I can't get the DS connectivity to work, so playing against the computer in Versus mode is still very enjoyable.
The only downfalls that I find are the graphics and sound quality are slightly below par for a DS title, but are fitting to the style of the game. I also find the extensive dialogue in the (lengthy, but excellent) campaign mode to be slightly erking at times, but I could put up with Golden Sun so I can deal. This game is a must have for DS owners and if you don't currently own one, I'd recommend picking up this and a copy of Nintendogs, it'll be well worth your money (especially after the price cut to $130) for these two titles alone.
9/10
