The Best DS Games for Role Playing Fans

The DS has become home to some of the best role playing games on the market, and in recent history that trend seems to be continuing. Late last year saw the arrival of the classic SNES game Chrono Trigger, one of the most critically lauded ds games of all time. The original cartridge still yields a hefty price online. Now, it's on the DS enhanced to utilize the unique features of the hand held system. The dual screens and stylus options allow for less on screen clutter and the original graphics and game play are in tact. Fans old and new will enjoy this unique twist on the classic RPG that, due to it's multiple ending, has a high replay value.
For those that really want the old time RPG experience, there are the Dragon Quest games. Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen and Dragon Quest V: Hand of the Heavenly Bride are classic RPGs with turn-based battles, level grinding and dungeon crawling. Back in the old NES days this series of games was called Dragon Warrior, and in fact Dragon Quest IV is a remake of the classic NES game Dragon Warrior IV with enhanced graphics and new features (Not to mention dual screens).
Often times newer RPGs get cluttered under their own lofty ambitions and unnecessary complications which causes the overall gaming experience something of a drag. The Dragon Quest series keeps it simple and allows the players to go about their quest at their own pace. Barrel through out or take your time building your characters, you get to the same place either way, but it's really all about the journey, and how you want to take it.
The games start out guiding you in the proper direction, not so subtly telling you where to go next, but in both games the training wheels eventually come off and you are left to explore the vast worlds in any way and any order you choose (However, if you wander into an area with monsters you don't seem to be able to handle, perhaps you should try a different direction. That's the game's subtle hint you may be on the wrong track.).
As is the case with many great games there is much to do besides the actual linear quest. Side quests, casinos, and even some online bartering (You, not your character) can come into play if you so choose.
Some people like the lavish cut scenes and labyrinth plots of more modern RPGs, but if you're a traditionalist, the DS is home to many RPGs for players old and new.
Stay tuned for our next PS3 games article.