A tough yet highly addictive game, perfect for passing the time.
You can imagine then my delight when I looked online and discovered that there was a version for the DS. While the DS version lacks the soundtrack of the 360 version replaced by a more (in my opinion) irritating soundtrack, it comes with improved graphics (though not really noticeable) and a sharper, more colourful look (players however do have the option to switch between the new and old graphics). However the core gameplay has not been toned down in any way, nothing removed and nothing changed, just pure 100% fun.
You control a small ninja in a game in which you must traverse various maps, jumping, running, wall jumping, wall sliding and carefully navigating your way to the finish while dodging the various hazards, from mines and floating electrical orbs to missiles and other homing projectiles - all of which will kill you with one shot. If this wasn't enough, you are also against a timer that continually counts down to your inevitable doom - you must collect gold pieces in order to boost the time, however these are nearly always located in areas littered with hazards. As you complete episodes (each episode is made up of roughly 4-5 maps and there are are 100+ maps in the standard game), you will unlock various bonuses such as different colour ninjas, new bonus episodes, different victory animations etc.
Once you have completed the 100 or so maps, there is the option to go online, you can create your own maps (complete with hazards) and upload these or try out and download player created maps online via Nintendo Wi-Fi - this essentially makes the game only limited only by your own imagination. The creation tools are really easy to use, with even novices being able to create a deceptively challenging map in only a short space of time.
There is also local multiplayer where players (each with their own game card) can either join up in coop to complete the various levels, or play two other game modes (domination and tag). This again adds to the re-playability factor of the game.
It is worth noting that the DS version is by far the easiest out of the two portable versions (the other being the PSP version), but is also the cleaner looking and the DS is by far the best suited for the game with it's dual screens. Some might consider the £18 price tag to be a bit much, but with the ever growing online community, the ever expanding commitment and constantly increasing content available, the price is well worth the investment in the long run. Highly recommended for veterans and newcomers alike.