Dragon Quest IX classic with unique multiplayer

Dragon Quest IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies Review
Game Genre: RPG
Game System: Nintendo DS, DSi, DsiXL.

Dragon Quest IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies is a game for those who enjoy the classic turn-based role playing strategy. Its best features include a rich storyline, an intuitive multiplayer feature and a host of monsters to kill (always a great feature to a game).

The game starts with your customized character as a member of an angel-like race called the Celestials assigned to protect the mortals on earth. Through your good deeds, you feed a spiritual tree called Yggdrasil, which will eventually bear figs and guide the Celestials to their long lost home. After the tree bears fruit, tragedy strikes, scattering the figs across the world and knocking you out of heaven, losing your wings and halo. Even without your immortal gifts, you and your party search the world for people to help and the lost fruits that hold the key to returning home.

This game isn't groundbreaking, but it is a safe buy. The gameplay uses text and menu options, so even younger players can easily figure out how to battle.

Both single player and multiplayer are worth trying, though each player requires their own game card to participate. In multiplayer, party members are free to roam anywhere they choose, but one member can request help against tough enemies, allowing all other party members to join the fray. This is a great family game to have, especially if there are multiple DS consoles in one household.