"Nintendogs: Daschund and Friends- A Game of Perplexity or Flaw"

Thank God Bob Barker's crusade to fix the world's pets hasn't reached its grimy hand into the depths of the virtual universe. Otherwise my new best friend, an outstandingly athletic husky named Demon, would have never existed.

Before I lose complete credibility amongst my more masculine peers, you should know that this game isn't just about grooming and playing with some pretend mutt like it was some kind of advanced, fuzzy Tamagotchi. It's about watching him develop from a clueless, seemingly deaf ball of fur, to a smart, obedient, Frisbee catching champion. You do this by educating your dog in the ways of the DS: Using the stylus to get him (or her) to move a certain way (or just rub his belly for some feel good encouragement), and you speak into the built in microphone to teach it commands, from a simple "sit" to a more provocative " spin-a-roonie" ( a self named command for getting Demon to spin hilariously while on his back). Repeat this numerous times and you will see your companion evolve and mentally expand over time. It is quite impressive- especially when I'm dragged back into reality to realize that it is just a game.

Oh yeah, about this "game" thing.... you teach your pooch tricks, take him for walks, and enter him in agility- disc catching- or obedience competitions. It is not exactly gaming- just a whole lot of activities to keep you and your puppy busy. Nintendogs does offer a collectible aspect, however; you can get and trade a hundred random items ranging from squeaky chew toys and clothing accessories, to controllable RC helicopters and playable music. But all they do is entertain your new friend in new ways, or make him look funny cause', hey, a dog sporting a pair of business glasses is pure comedy gold.

Before I end this review, there is one more thing I would like to point out, the nagging aspect of competitions. Three meets a day just isn't enough- mostly because even when your dogs are well trained. well practiced, recently bathed, pampered with top quality food, and positive feedback aplenty, they'll behave startlingly unpredictably, just when it matters most. I understand if it's something of a stamina issue, as this game does an amazing job creating a realistic pet you care both for and about. Its just stuck halfway between sim and silly. I hope the next game works out these identity issues.

With all the unique traits that this game includes, I still wish there were more ways to show off my little wads of fluff. I do have to give this game huge credit for being so technologically cool, and for getting me hooked for so long. But it won't be long before you're looking for something much deeper with longer lasting appeal.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 09/15/05