Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Looks like I'll have to add Soul Bubbles to my DS wish list

I've heard only good things about the Mekensleep-developed, Eidos-published title, Soul Bubbles, yet I haven't added it to my DS collection.

That may have to change now that I know the game includes two bonus levels done in the ukiyo-e style. (According to wikipedia, ukiyo-e is is a genre of Japanese woodblock prints and paintings produced between the 17th and the 20th centuries that feature motifs of landscapes, tales from history the theatre and pleasure quarters.)


Yes, I'm a sucker for ukiyo-e. Sadly, few games feature graphics inspired by this style--in fact, the only one I can think of right now (other than Soul Bubbles, of course) is Konami's ancient arcade title, Mr. Goemon. (Goemon's one and only DS outing features the similar sumi-e style, as does Ōkami and its forthcoming sequel, Ōkamiden.)

Speaking of awesome art styles, I'd have to slap myself if I failed to point out the cute-as-hell box art created for the Japanese version of Soul Bubbles, known as Awatama:


In a perfect world, I'd pick up a copy of Awatama instead of Soul Bubbles, but as of now the former costs about three times as much as the latter ($48.90 compared to $13.87).

Buy: Awatama or Soul Bubbles

(Via tinycartridge.com)

4 comments:

Viewtiful_Justin said...

Hm. What's the premise?

Bryan Ochalla said...

I can't tell you from my own experience, Justin, as I've yet to play it, but here's what Wikipedia says about it:

"The core gameplay involves transporting "spirits" within protective bubbles through varying environments. Bubbles are moved by being blown by the main "spirit herder" character based on stylus strokes on the DS touch screen. Bubbles may be created, joined, split, deflated and burst using animal "masks", worn by the spirit herder, again using the touch screen.

"These mechanics are then used to navigate through levels featuring wind currents, enemies, water, fire, gases, spikes, sticky surfaces, and further complexities. At the same time there are collectible "stardust" items that contribute to the player's end-of-level score, and "calabash" that unlock additional levels."

Also, here's a trailer that shows off some of the above: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gLlURPGVDsg

Melody (Lizzi) said...

Have you seen the ugly european box art for this game??? O____O
Just awful.

Bryan Ochalla said...

I hadn't seen it before you mentioned it, Melody, but now that I have, I can't help but agree with your assessment :|