Kirby Squeak Squad is a short, but sweet 2D platformer for the Nintendo DS.
The game play is simple. You control Kirby through multiple stages while avoiding enemies and defeating bosses. New power abilities have been added in Squeak Squad, but not many. Lucky, there is a great assortment used in previous games. As you progress through each level, you will unlock various items which you can view in the “Collection Room”. Some of this items include: a sound player (listen to the different game music and sounds), spray paint (change the color of Kirby), and ability scrolls (enhance your in game abilities). To receive these different items, you must collect treasure chests which are hidden in each stage. For the majority of stages, there are three chests to be found. For one of the chests in each stage, you will encounter one of the Squeaks (from the Squeak Squad) who will try to take the treasure chest from you. If you are able to defeat or escape from the Squeak, when you reach the end of the level, you will be able to open the chest and claim its contents.
Along with the game’s simplicity, comes length…short length. Even though the game has many stages, the game’s difficulty level will likely allow you to complete the game in a matter of hours. Fortunately, the game is sweet as strawberry shortcake!
Adding a new twist to the game are the touch screen controls. On menu screens, you can use the stylus to navigate and make selections. In game play, when Kirby swallows a bubble with an item, you can combine it “inside” his stomach to make a new power.
The game is very bright and colorful. As a 2D game, the graphics are terrific. The stages include vibrant backgrounds and environments that well suit the game. Along with the graphics come cool, catchy tunes, which are very reminiscent of past Kirby games.
Squeak Squad also includes a few little mini games which use the DS’s touch screen. You can play them with a friend via DS Download Play or by Multi card. The games are pretty gimmicky though, and you’re likely to become bored with them in a matter of minutes.
In short, Kirby Squeak Squad is short. But the fun, light-hearted game play and originality makes it very recommendable most DS owners.