Fifteen years after his destructive debut on NECs TurboGrafx-16 (remember that?), Bomberman has become one of the most enduring icons in gaming history. But as the volatile fellas first DS outing is only worth having for its multiplayer mode, this explosive romp isnt the quite blast fans were hoping for.
For head-to-head action, this edition is flawless; up to eight players can take part in the classic Battle Mode using a single cartridge and the DS
wireless connection, making for frantic fights that are spread across the consoles dual screens, doubling the traditional playing area and creating dozens of new ways to blow your rivals to smithereens.
But if its single player thrills youre looking for, Bomberman DS simply fizzles out. Although the game is packed with new elements such as teleporters, conveyor belts and panels that can resurrect fallen Bombermen, the fact that you can now stockpile special attacks and unleash them at will rather than activating power-ups the moment you collect them, as in Hudsons classic games the solo experience is much too simple and poses little challenge for seasoned fans.