If you’re interested in titles which offer something a little different then the Nintendo DS is the platform to turn to and Ninja Town, a strategy game as quirky as it is cute, is further evidence of this. Ninja Town is one of multiple cute creations from Shawnimals and has proven to be a big hit with many people on the net (students and various other layabouts) and this DS title comes after an array of plushies, badges, t-shirts, and a comic-book.

One part strategy, one part action, you are Ol’ Master Ninja placing Ninja units in strategic locations to ensure Mr. Demon and his band of evil Wee Devils do not advance. The entire Ninjatown cast lends a hand, not to mention Feroshi the Dino Slug high atop Mount Feroshi!

I couldn’t have put it better myself! Well, I would like to point out that the above product description makes this game sound like it’s only for huge fans of all things Shawnimals but I found it quite endearing despite the fact I had no prior knowledge of Ninja Town.

As you progress further into the game things can become really hectic and you’ll find yourself darting around the map as you try your best to stem the flow of enemies who’ll be attacking your village from all corners. The cute factor certainly helps in dealing with the frustration you’ll feel as you manage to fend off every wave of enemy only to stumble at the last moment and end up having to start that mission again. I think the key is that there’s always light at the end of the tunnel in this game. In some games the objective isn’t always clear, nor is the method of dealing with the problem at hand, but in Ninja Town you’re fully aware of what must be done and so starting over again feels more like a second chance and less like torture.

Apart from the obvious attraction to fans of Shawnimals, which will certainly be substantial, this game will appeal most to the type of gamer who waits in anticipation for the latest quirky title to be released. Ninja Town should also be of interest to fans of the strategy genre but also to those who likes puzzle games since at heart this title is essentially a test of concentration, time-management, and quick-thinking above all else. I have to applaud the developers for creating Ninja Town as it’s always refreshing to play something which attempts to stand out from the crowd and I certainly enjoyed every ounce of quirkiness this game has on offer.

Well, I’m off to find a demon and make it my bitch, if I’m lucky I might even find time to play some more Ninja Town, but before I run off I’ll leave you with some advice. I would have a hard time recommending this title for very young children as while the exterior is very cute and cuddly the gameplay can at times be really hectic which can prove to be quite challenging. This would make a great Christmas present for slightly older children and any adult with a quirky outlook and it’s certainly a game which will be remembered for some time to come.

8/10

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