Trace Memory

Reviewed by April Freeman
February 15, 2006

Developer: Cing Inc./Nintendo Publisher: Nintendo Platform(s): Nintendo DS Numbers of Players: 1 ESRB Rating: T for Teen

Screenshot. Click image to enlarge.

Trace memory is a unique game where the player works out puzzles to solve a mystery. It opens with the main character, Ashley Robbins, traveling on a boat to Blood Edward Island . The story line begins as Ashley talks to her companion for this part of the game (Jessica). The first puzzle isn't far off either!

This game is very easy to control as everything is done using the stylus. To progress through the game, the player will need to solve puzzles or talk to characters. The puzzles can actually be challenging to find if one does not pay attention to the story. It's not impossible, but things make more sense if you read what the characters say. There is no time limit and one can easily jump back in to the game after taking a break (though you may not want to, the story is actually quite interesting!). The puzzles are not extremely challenging but they are difficult enough to make the game fun. I was very surprised by the way the 2 screens were used to solve puzzles, which make great use of the DS system.

There is really only one irritating thing about the game, and that is the music. The same song plays through the entire game. It's a nice song, and the game only takes a few hours to complete but it still gets a bit annoying near the end.

This is a great game. You really get in to the story and it's easy to get attached to the characters (well the 2 main characters Ashley and D). The puzzles are fun and most are different than expected. The game is long enough considering you spend the entire time absorbed in the story. There is only one story to the game though, and once you play the game there is really no reason to play again (same puzzles and story). I would definitely recommend playing this game if you like a good story or like puzzle games. It is great for both!

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