Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow

Up until very recently, I called this the best game on the DS, and it's still up there as one of them.

Castlevania is one of the best action game series ever released. This title really delivers. It brings back Soma Cruise from the GameBoy Advance title Aria of Sorrow. Soma is the reincarnation of Dracula, and has control of the evil beasts. He's called upon again, but this time to stop an evil cult who wants to see Dracula return to power and rule the world (and has found other heirs to his throne).

The game is a 2-D action platformer, but with an equipment and experience system that keeps you wanting to level up. You also (randomly with different percent chances) absorb the souls of the enemies you come across and can use their powers afterwards (or powerup your weapons with them). It really gives it a "Gotta Catch 'Em All™" feel from Pokémon.

One of the things that will have you glued to this game is the map. Not only is it awesome to have the map on the top screen and always open, the game scores you based on how much of the map you've explored. Can you get 100%? There are lots of hidden rooms you know (but there might be a soul somewhere that helps you find those!).

Again, I couldn't put this one down for weeks while I finished it. I still pick it up from time to time just to relive the adventure.

By far, a must have title if you own a DS.

Luminous Arc

For those that enjoy RPGs, but want a change, this is the game for you.

Luminous Arc is a really great RPG. There's lots of good story cut-aways with real dialog in most of them, and the game is very addictive. I has the standard RPG elements of leveling up, taking turns, equiping items, and learning spells. Unlike my nemesis, Final Fantasy, the game will wait on you if you have to look away for a moment.

There's a twist to Luminous Arc, though. If you've played Final Fantasy Tactics, for the GBA, you already have experienced it. The combat is grid based. You have to walk your characters around a grid on their turns, choose which way they face, and their attacks can go a certain distance (ie: sword is one square, lance is two, magic can be more). This adds a whole new layer of strategy to an already great genre.

This game is not for children. There are heavy religious overtones throughout the story. There is plenty of cursing. There's even some drug use. Bear that in mind if buying this as a gift for someone. That said, I think this is a very entertaining and challenging game for young adults and adults.