The World Ends With You is just one of those few games that makes the DS owner proud.
The game focuses on unwitting hero, Neku Sakabara, on a refreshingly unique quest to figure out just what happened to him and why he can use psychic powers. Along the way, Neku meets with some different characters that are both good and bad, and as per Square Enix's typical RPG formula, there is an epic story filled with a slew of twists and turns that are sure to bring even cold-hearted gamers to down a notch. Neku and three partners are in something called The Reaper's Game, and if they fail to complete a challenge given to them, they will be taken out of existence.
During TWEWY, Neku fights some of the most bizarrely designed enemies that have ever existed, such as a shark-like character that devours other enemies to make itself stronger. These creatures, called the Noise, are some of the craziest enemies ever featured in a game, from a demented looking kangaroo, right down to a ferocious bear.
One of the best things about TWEWY, is its soundtrack. The game boasts a soundtrack that is truly fitting to the setting, modern-day Tokyo. J-pop, hip-hip, and rock tracks perforate the game. Some of the battle themes have vocals, something that is not really seen in RPGs that often.
There are many things about TWEWY that stand out, one of which is its virtual representation of Shibuya. The game features hundreds of items, each with a brand. The brand is a factor in how the item benefits you. If you wear the wrong brand, then say goodbye to the bonus. The food system is also a very unique aspect of the game; immediate effects are no more. Once you eat a food item, you do not reap the benefits until after you battle and 'digest' the item. The game actually rewards you with an experience boost the longer you leave the game off. Each of your pins, which give characters different powers, can be upgraded this way, although there is a limit to how high the pin level can get through this method.
The single most important about The World Ends With You is the battle system. It is featured on both screens, with Neku on the bottom, and his current partner on the top screen. The catch: you control both characters simultaneously. Neku is controlled solely by the touch screen, where slashing an enemy will do damage and a certain motion will trigger a special attack. Meanwhile, the D-pad controls the top character, triggering defensive and offensive actions. The game seems confusing on paper, but in practice the system is very fine-tuned. There is a sort of combo system where Neku attacks, then the partner, then Neku, repeat, ultimately delivering damage in higher and higher amounts. The player also can use the pins to execute different attacks and powers. Some require the microphone, while others need the player to scribble and draw shapes on the battlefield.
Overall, The World Ends With You is the single best game on the DS to date. There are simply too many things about TWEWY to explain. It is a must-buy. With its stunning visuals, gripping story, wacky mechanics, and all around greatness, TWEWY will not be a short lived adventure.