Trace Memory - Nintendo DS

Trace Memory for Nintendo DS is a thoughtful and atmospheric point-and-click adventure that blends mystery, emotion, and clever puzzles into a handheld experience. Also known as Another Code: Two Memories in some regions, this game was developed by Cing and published by Nintendo, and it quickly became a cult favorite for fans of story-driven games with a slower, more deliberate pace.

The story follows Ashley Mizuki Robbins, a 13-year-old girl who receives a letter from her supposedly deceased father, summoning her to the mysterious Blood Edward Island. Accompanied by her aunt, Ashley sets out to uncover the truth about her past, her family, and a hidden research project. Along the way, she encounters a ghost named D, who has lost his memories—and may be key to unraveling the island’s secrets.

Trace Memory makes excellent use of the DS hardware, incorporating touchscreen interaction, the microphone, and even the system’s closing and opening mechanism to solve in-game puzzles. Players navigate hand-drawn environments, investigate objects, collect clues, and gradually piece together the story through environmental storytelling and dialogue choices.

With no combat or time pressure, the game emphasizes exploration and narrative, making it ideal for players who enjoy immersive, reflective experiences. Its visual style features soft, painterly backgrounds and expressive character portraits, complemented by a minimalist soundtrack that enhances the game’s quiet tension.

Though relatively short, Trace Memory stands out as a unique and memorable adventure on the Nintendo DS, perfect for fans of visual novels, mystery games, and interactive fiction. It’s a must-play for anyone looking to experience an emotional, puzzle-filled story that takes full advantage of the DS’s unique capabilities.