Pokemon Ranger Shadows of Almia provides a great gaming experience on the DS. It keeps with the Pokemon style of game play and uses the DS touch screen in an interesting and effective way. The game is easy to learn, fun to play and even good enough to watch.

The goal of the game is first to become a ranger. This is done by navigating the game world, collecting and capturing Pokemon and saving people. Navigation is done either using the arrow keys or simply using the stylus to point in a direction for your character and his group to go. Yes, as you capture Pokemon and encounter other humans, they can join you group and help in many ways.

One of the unique features of the game is the way in which you capture the Pokemon. You simply use the stylus to encircle the Pokemon and continue to circle around it until it is defeated. Once captured, the Pokemon can join your group or, if your group is full, be used to energize your group. Pokemon can also be used to perform actions like busting open a crate, in which you never know what you will find.

I think one of the keys to this game is that it is easy to play. The kids were able to pick it up and get started without any trouble. And more impressive, I was able to catch on pretty quickly myself. The game play is fun, light and as mentioned before, a good use of the stylus and touch screen. The kids like it because it expands the Pokemon world and as a parent, it doesn't seem to include the violence you find in other games. If you kids are into Pokemon and mission driven games, this title is one that they will enjoy.