Finally!

User Rating: 9.5 | Yoshi's Island DS DS
It feels like it was just yesterday. E3 2006 showcased many upcoming hits. This game hogged the spotlight ( at least, for me ). After months of waiting for this game, it finally hits shelves. Is it worth it? Hell yeah!!

Gameplay: YIDS plays exactly like the original. The controls are tight, and they feel perfect. If you were good at the SNES masterpiece you will probably be able to jump right in to this. I didn't even have to learn anything really, its simple and easy to learn. Even if you haven't played the predecessor, this game will be a cinch to learn. Though ( not fully ) a cinch to play. Yoshi's Island DS starts out basic and pretty easy, but the difficulty does indeed rise. This game is waaay harder than New Super Mario bros. which is a good thing. There is also a lot more to do. Unlocking all of the secrets is the replay value. Baby coins, and flowers are just a few of the games many unlockables. Speaking of babies, you can control a wide variety of babies. Each has his/her own unique ability. For example, Princess Peach can use her parasol as an enhanced flutter-jump, and use it to float. There are nearly 60 levels hidden in this game, and most of them are extremely long, to boot.

Graphics: Wow. The graphics are even better than the first game's!! Mostly consisting of crayon style sprites, the graphics are quite nice to look at and are just a sample of what the DS can do. Some of the enemy sprites look really "Gameboy", but overall everything is good. I preferred New Super Mario bros. graphical style better, but this game is in a close second, for being the most beautiful platformer on Nintendo's handheld.

Sound: Sadly, the sound isn't even close to as good as its prequel. The sound in this game is great, though it doesn't have the magical touch that the original did. The tunes are good, but just aren't memorable. The SFX however, are greatly constructed and entertaining to hear. You have to admit, though, the babies cries do get annoying. If you thought Mario was annoying, just wait until you hear the others!!

Replay: As I said, there is tons to do in this meaty platformer. This game has tons of levels each consisting of many secrets even the hardcore may struggle with. I wish this had mulitplayer, but its so big and challenging that it will keep your attention for a very long time. At least, until you find something else to play.

Buy, Rent, or Leave: If you are a platforming fan, this game is a must. Even if you are a fan of the original Yoshi's Island or anything made by Nintendo, I encourage you to buy it. Rent it if you are a casual gamer, or are a hardcore FPS fan. Don't even think about leaving this masterpiece. Heck don't even rent it. Just buy the damn game!!

Conclusion: I actually think this game is better than New Super Mario bros. and I know you some of you agree. Please check this game out. For the sake of entertainment. Artoon has finally made a great game!!