Tony Hawk rides onto DS

The Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, a wireless service that brings online play to the DS, launched yesterday to the delight of handheld gamers. However, a DS without a Wi-Fi-enabled game is as good as a skateboard without wheels. Mario Kart DS was released yesterday, but for gamers looking for a little more serious four-wheeled fun, Activision offers an alternative.

The publisher today released the DS edition of Tony Hawk's American Sk8land to stores, the skating series' debut on the Nintendo handheld. As an up-and-coming skater, gamers will take on seven areas in Southern California and try to impress skating legends such as Tony Hawk himself.

American Sk8land's local wireless and online capabilities include one-on-one competitions in modes such as trick attack, score challenge, combo mambo, and the price is wrong. Additionally, players can post scores and view replays of totally wicked runs. The game also uses the handheld's microphone and stylus features for customizing boarders.

Tony Hawk's American Sk8land was developed by Vicarious Visions, is rated for E for Everyone, and retails for $39.99. Check back later this week for a review of the game.