"Hotel Dusk won't be collecting dust anytime soon"

Hotel Dust: Room 215

I started tracking Hotel Dusk after seeing a clip on a japanese web site. I was intrigued on how it would play and the story seemed gripping. After finally getting my own copy and playing it in depth, I can say I was not let down.

(It must be noted that this game is played by holding the DS sideways with the d-pad closet to you. Touch screen= right screen.)

Graphics:
The art style of the cut scenes and dialogue is beautiful. It's all done in a unique hand drawn style that flows as well as the story. During conversations you can see extensive detail in the expressions of every person you talk to. The in-game graphics are also very pretty. Everything in the hotel holds a certain draw to it that provides for a very mysterious atmosphere.

Sound:
I love the music in this game. It fits the surroundings and doesn't detract from gameplay. The sound effects are well picked and all help keep up the feeling of mystery. There isn't any voice acting which was a little disappointing,but I got use to it and it didn't hurt the game in the end.

Control:
It look a little getting use to as the touch screen control is very responsive. You can use the D-pad, but it's difficult. Once I got use to the touch screen it was perfect. As you walk the hotel you come across areas you can inspect more closely. This is all done via the touch screen.

Gameplay:
This, as with all great games, is where it truly shines. The various tasks Hotel Dusk throws at you all help build up the atmosphere and story as well as being fun in their own respect. During conversations you pick responses based on the emotions you see in the person you're speaking with. You have a note pad which can be accessed at anytime to jot down a note. This is a vital part of game play. Outside of conversations you walk the halls of Hotel Dusk. On the right screen is an overhead map that is well labeled and keeps you from getting lost, while the left screen displays the hotel from Hyde's eyes. When you come across something that can be inspected an icon pops up on the touch screen. While inspecting thee areas the view point can be shifter from left to right to look for more clues. Almost every item in these areas can be examined.

Conclusion: Buy this game now. I put this next to EBA, PoR, and JUS as must have DS titles. I give it a 9/10 simply because I don't think any game is perfect.

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 01/23/07