Advance Wars Days of Ruin refines the existing Advance Wars formula, adding different units instead of just larger ones.
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The Good:
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> Added units make for a more balanced experience.
> Art direction and graphics are as stylized as ever, this time with more grit.
> Good soundtrack with some catchy tunes.
> Gameplay is rock solid.
> Good multiplayer options.
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The Bad:
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> Story is predicable and uninspired.
> Online is a bit limiting.
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Gameplay: 9.5
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Advance Wars has always been known for its rock solid gameplay, but Days of Ruins one-ups all past titles with a more balanced list of units. The cost and effect of units has been balanced to near perfection and there are few ultimate weapons that destroy all others. The addition of units such as the bikes, flares, and anti-tanks really helps with the balancing act Days of Ruin has put in place. CO powers are no longer the main focus of the game as they have been greatly reduced in power. Instead, a new tactic has been added for using your CO in battle to rally moral. This was a simple, yet needed addition that truly turns this kids game into a strategic powerhouse. Get ready to be marveled by how close this gameplay is to perfection.
Online and multiplayer are what this game lives for and even those options have been boosted. Multi-card functionality is unfortunate, but necessary. Online play with voice chat is great, but overall limited by Friend Codes, no random play, and only 2 players. Overall, this package should last you a long time.
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Difficulty: Hard
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Advance Wars continues its history of being a difficult game with Days of Ruin. I found myself thoroughly enjoying the difficulty level because moderately challenging to challenging is a great level to be at when playing a game.
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Graphics: 8.0
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Days of Ruin finally exceeds past visuals in the Advance Wars franchise. With different art and better 2D animation, Advance Wars is a pretty package wrapped in thick black lines. The picture may be messy and washed out at times, but it always looks nice.
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Sound: 7.5
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Days of Ruin's soundtrack is a little less upbeat than the other Advance Wars titles, probably because of the serious mood of the game. Still, catchy themes are heard throughout the story and CO switches. Sound effects have become a bit more realistic but still ultimately limited by the DS hardware. Sound Design is uninspired. Little care was taken in crafting this game's sound design as few unique sounds are found. This is still a solid end product though.
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Overall: 9.0
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Advance Wars has always been about the gameplay, and this is easily the best the series has to offer. With added online play, increased balance, and smart use of CO's, Days of Ruin is a must buy for all strategy fans.