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.

Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword (Nintendo DS) is a must have for anyone with a DS. The graphics very impressive and the controls are a wonderful change of pace and a delight. You hold the DS sideways (you hold the DS as if you were playing Brain Age 1&2) and the ENTIRE gameplay is done with the stylus. You tap on the screen in the direction you want the character to walk/run, you draw in an upward motion to jump, you draw lines (horizontal and/or diagonal)for your attacks and you draw out the signs of the magic in order to use the magic. Definitely a must have!!!!!

Excellent game.
Pros
It completely utilizes the touchscreen, combat/gameplay is engaging using the stylus to slash/shoot/flip/roll/and get the drop on enemies. Graphics are very well done. 3D graphics, bosses in general look amazing. Great graphics considering the DS's graphics ability. Good story to hold up the game but not too much talking and the start button can be used to skip most of the speeches if you don't want to read. Music matches scenery different music theme for each area.
Cons
The game is a little on the easy side in Normal- a solid gamer can go through it in less than ten hours but the difficulty after finishing can be upped. Top screen is only used for map and the tutorial text in the beginning.

I'm an RPG type of guy, so I don't usually like games like this. But I was at a GameStop one day and they had a demo for this game which you could play with and I had to have it. The game is fun, challenging, and easy to use. I have to admit I was expecting the story line to be a bit cheesy but its actually quite good. Though the story is so minor compared to the great action fighting. The amazing graphics, great stylus touch screen control, and ambient sounds make this game remarkably fun to play. You won't be able to put this one down.

This game has a unique gameplay using the NDS touch screen. It is very fun to play and pass time. No other game like this one.