Of all the times for me to get these two games. I was looking forward to both of them since near the DS’s inception (btw: monday is the DS’s birthday!), a time when a ton of great-sounding titles were promised. Most of those have actually come out, and I think we live in very exciting times because of it. I’m going to end up with more DS games than I have ever owned for any system ever. However, I spend all my time with the hot item, Mario Kart. To be fair, it will cool off eventually, but it’s everything right now.

I’m a complete Sonic fiend, and I’ve maybe spent an hour with Sonic Rush. It’s too early to pass judgment on the level design, but I don’t think it’s going to be as great as Sonic 2’s. It still has an incredible feeling of speed, and fun new mechanics. I’ve played only four levels (*sob*), and I want more.

Also, this seems to be the first US Sonic in which “Dr. Robotnik” is called Eggman. Interesting change of translation there.

The other game is Phoenix Wright. I didn’t know what to expect out of this game. I didn’t think anyone could make a lawyer game. The idea is absurd; it’s like making a game based on being an accountant, or working in fast food, or moving boxes (take that, Shenmue!). But, with such unanimous favor, it couldn’t be bad. I finished the introductory case completely wowed. I’m a little bit shocked that I actually have to pay attention to the facts in a game! When was the last time that happened? Trace Memory, with its quizzes, dosen’t count. My girlfriend started watching me play, but was eventually drawn into it so much that she was yelling at the witness and playing right alongside me. We got stumped at some points, and we pulled through eventually. The introduction wasn’t a cakewalk, but it wasn’t too hard. It was just right.

I have plenty of games for my well-deserved winter break, so come Dec. 5, I’m going to be glued to my DS.