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Mr. Driller: Drill Spirits
Sun, 1st May 2005
FYI, this story is more than a year old

Updating a classic puzzle game for a new console must be a tricky task, but luckily Namco have utilised the technology of the DS to create a unique spin on your old-school Tetris style games. Mr. Driller: Drill Spirits provides both single player and wireless multiplayer modes for up to five players. With single player mode, you can tackle various Puzzle missions, Pressure stages, and even Time Attack mode. Tackling missions allows you to unlock each of the seven drillers available in the game by completing stages set across the globe. The Pressure stages place you in the same stages as in mission mode, although you must quickly drill to the bottom of the stage to avoid being dispatched by a massive destroyer drill. Lastly, the Time Attack mode lets you select a stage for time trial and as you frantically drill down, you can collect icons that extend your time.

The stylus is used to direct drilling, done by simply tapping on the touch screen in the direction you wish to drill - but the directional pads and buttons can also be used if preferred. For the most part, you’ll drill down, although you can drill in all four directions as long as there are blocks in reach.

Mr. Driller: Drill Spirits contains wonderfully engaging gameplay, but tends to be cut short by a lack of modes and stages. The inclusion of mini-games and items available for purchase provide an incentive for continued play however.