Publisher: Konami
Ages: Six & up
Parental
Advisory:
mild violence
Beyond cards, Konami's Yu-Gi-Oh! The Dawn of Destiny lets kids duel to their heart's content. The game is a rendition of the popular Yu-Gi-Oh! trading card game that features lots of game cards, official game rules and new duel modes. While the title is adequate, it's mostly for die-hard Yu-Gi-Oh! fans who want to battle on their Xboxes.
The game does a great job of adapting the world of Yu-Gi-Oh! trading cards and turning it into a video game. Those who are familiar with the Duel Monsters collectible card game will feel right at home. While the title is an Xbox exclusive, it's much like versions that have been produced for the other consoles.
At its core, the title features some 1000 virtual game cards (with three limited-edition official game cards as an enticement), the ability to construct up to three decks, as well as use multiple dueling strategies. A new Triple Duel Mode lets a player compete against up to three other duelists.
Players can duel against another player through the Link Cable mode, which is probably not practical for most players. Interestingly, there's no support for Xbox Live to allow players to compete online. Graphics and sound are adequate.
In the end, Yu-Gi-Oh! The Dawn of Destiny presents a good video game version of the popular card game. Those who are into the Yu-Gi-Oh! card game may appreciate a version for their Xbox. And those who have no interest in Yu-Gi-Oh! will find little here.
5/1/04 www.daytrum.com Editorial Staff
