Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword (Nintendo DS, 2008)

I would say that this game is exceptionally good. Here are some reasons why.

Reason #1: The movement of characters are quite fluid, and the DS doesn't hog down with several enemies on the screen. This provides you with a constant feel for action and a sense of overall pride and satisfaction when enemies around you are thrown and slashed to their utter defeat.

Reason #2: The story is well done, with cut screen pictures and voice sounds such as cackling, grunting, (in battle as well), and thoughtful hums and hmms when something has come to the main characters attention. The movement and the story really reminds one of an old dubbed karate film to give you an idea of what the story and characters are like, but not so much so that it is corny.

Reason #3: There are touch screen controls only. This might be a problem in some games but in this game it actually enhances the experiance because it makes one feel that you are a lot closer to becoming involved with the hero of the story. By hacking and slashing with your stylis and throwing your shurikens by tapping on an enemy or item you really feel that you are more involved than having buttons and d-pad movement. I would also mention that some might think that the stylis would get in the way of what is on the screen but it doesn't at all, (believe me) and also your swipes and taps are really accurate with what moves you want to do.

Reason #4: The boss battles are intense, although somewhat easy, The graphics are top notch for the DS and the screen shakes with roars of the giant monsters and deformations at the end of each level. I will admit however, in regards to the boss battles being easy, that I've not played on a difficulty level higher than normal so you might find the boss battles more difficult on a higher level of challenge, after you've defeated the game on normal that is.

Reason #5: The game is not just an action game in the sense that you can buy upgrades, such as magic and movement enhancements to make defeating the bad guys that much more enjoyable. Another point is that you are in a free moving world (to some extent) and not in a 2D sidescroller which in my opinion would not be nearly as enjoyable for touch screen controls.

Ending comments: This game is certainly worth buying and is one of the best on the DS. If you are looking for an intense action game with a good story, excellent graphics, and plenty of fun, this will fill the hole that needs to be filled in your entertainment thingamajiggy.