Spectrobes details unearthed

Kyoto-based Jupiter Corporation, the same team of developers that created Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories, is hard at work on an anime-style role-playing game for the DS. While there are a plethora of other cartoonish RPGs for Nintendo's handheld, Jupiter hopes its suite of unique features for its upcoming Spectrobes will distinguish it from the pack.

In Spectrobes, junior Planetary Patrol officers Rallen and Jeena are tasked with defending the galaxy from enemies named the Krawl. To do this, the two stars must dig up ancient creatures called the Spectrobes, who can then be summoned Pokémon-style to help them fend off foes.

Publisher Buena Vista Games today revealed that each copy of Spectrobes will include four collectible trading cards, which can be used to unlock content in the game. By placing the translucent cards over the DS's screen, gamers can tap a numerical sequence on the touch screen and get new items. Cards can be traded among friends, and more cards are promised to be available after the game's release.

Spectrobes will also tap into the Web for even more game-related content. Videos, custom parts, minerals, and creatures will be downloadable through Nintendo's Wi-Fi Connection. In addition, the Spectrobes Web site will be able to log player stats and info on personal pages set up for those who connect the game online.

Spectrobes is rated E for Everyone and will retail for $29.99 when it goes on sale on March 13. For more information, head to the game's official Web site or read GameSpot's previous coverage.