The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass for the Nintendo DS had stirred up a bit of insecurity among fans when it was first announced. Questions were asked. Questions like, ''Touch screen only? How will the graphics look? Is is a sequel to Wind Waker, or is it stand alone? Mom, can we go home now?'' Well. I shall answer those questions, and provide some insight on this fantastic package. Yes, the game is essentially a touch screen only game. But don't cry, the controls, from my experience, work pretty well, and if you hold the screen properly like you're supposed to, you will find that it is comforting. The graphics are cel shaded, and are pretty good for a DS title. There are cut scenes that show off a little more of the world around you, and there are little details that make the game look really polished and pretty. The sound is what you'd expect from a Zelda game: great. But, like most DS games, I highly suggest using a pair of good headphones to listen in while playing to fully experience the great, lavish music, especially when sailing. Sailing in this game has been changed from Wind Waker, to be a little less tedious. You basically just draw the destination out on your map, and the ship moves automatically. There are some clever puzzles in the game-the concept of drawing notes is emphasized and is well implemented- and the combat stays true to the Zelda formula. The items and enemies you face fit the game, and there are dungeons with cool bosses to defeat. Mini games are scattered all around the place, and collecting treasure is back as well. The game isn't all that long, but hey, a fantastic game like this needs to be played more than once, amirite? Anyway, there is single card and wireless multiplayer which is fun while it lasts, but definitely not a reason why you would by this game. Speaking of buying this game...................go buy this game.

Excellent game-tight controls. Takes awhile to get started (thank you skip button) but after that great game.

The first time I got this game I though; "Oh, Wind Waker sequel". But after playing this game, I found this game more enjoyable than Wind Waker! The graphics are cut off the same mold that the Wind Waker has been, but the controls are something unique! Link moves around according to where you move the stylus on the screen. Drawing little paths on the map to guide link's ship towards his destination is very innovative. You can even write and draw stuff out on the map so you can remember later on where treasures or people are. The only difficulty I had in the game though was solving some puzzles to advance forward in the game, like trying to solve a riddle that would open up a secret cave or digging in a certain spot to reveal a hole. You must be aware of all these little things and search through every nook & cranny to make it in this game. However, this does not bother me as the gameplay gives you enough patience to find things. The online multiplayer battle is fun and filled with alot of excitement! The music in this game has that special "Zelda charm" that makes it truly worth the experience!

This is by far one of the best Nintendo DS games that will ever come out. The game has a great story, great combat, great bosses, and a lot of chalenging puzzles. Their are a lot of different parts you can unlock to customize your ship as well as a bunch of unlockable weapons (bombs, boomerangs, etc.). The graphics are similar to Wind Waker, which works great on the DS. The only flaw I saw was the multiplayer. Although it was fun at first, it was very repetetive. BUY IT!

This game is the best game to own for the Nintendo Ds, If you ever buy a ds, i recommend that you buy this game for your first game. I rate this game 5 stars. I am a zelda pro and i am looking forward to play this game.