Children of Mana - Nintendo DS

Children of Mana for Nintendo DS is a beautifully crafted action RPG set in the legendary world of the Mana series. As a spiritual successor to classic titles like Secret of Mana, this installment brings fast-paced dungeon crawling, cooperative multiplayer, and rich lore to the dual-screen handheld.

Set on the island of Illusia, you play as one of four selectable heroes who set out to uncover the truth behind a mysterious catastrophe tied to the Mana Tree. The story is steeped in themes of loss, destiny, and hope, tying into the broader Mana universe while standing on its own with unique characters and emotional storytelling.

Combat is real-time and weapon-based, with players able to wield swords, flails, bows, or hammers—each offering distinct mechanics and combos. You’ll also summon powerful Spirits like Salamander and Undine to enhance your attacks and abilities. The game’s "Gem" system allows you to customize character stats and passive abilities, adding strategic depth to your build.

Gameplay centers on dungeon exploration across various themed regions, with a loop of clearing floors, defeating bosses, and upgrading gear. While solo play is satisfying, the game shines in local multiplayer where up to four players can team up to battle monsters and collect loot together.

With its vibrant 2D art style, enchanting soundtrack by series veteran Kenji Ito, and nostalgic yet accessible gameplay, Children of Mana is a must-play for fans of the Mana franchise and action RPG enthusiasts alike.