Legend of Zelda, The: Spirit Tracks (Nintendo DS)
© 2009 Nintendo of America
Warning -- once you start playing this DS specific Zelda title, you won't want to stop. As a bonus, it's rich with reading and problem solving opportunities, making this a fantastic addition to any older child's DS or DSi software library. For the first time in the series, Princess Zelda leaves the underworld and joins Link as he tries to save the land of Hyrule. Zelda's spirit provides guidance and controls suits of armor, called Phantoms, which can help Link defeat enemies, solve puzzles, and uncover secrets. The game features new game elements including a customizable train which Link conducts. When on the train, Link must determine the best route to the end of the line, avoiding obstacles and firing an onboard cannon at enemies who attack the train, or sounding the whistle to scare animals off the tracks. The game also features a variety of new items for Link to use, including the Whirlwind, which you activate by blowing into the DS microphone. You can also draw notes on the in-game maps using the stylus and touch screen, and can compete with up to four players in a new multiplayer mode via local wireless connection with just one game card. The bottom line? Even for $35, this is a definite buy.
$35, Nintendo DS
Teaches: reading, logic, social play
CTR Rating: 96%