Treasure World (Nintendo DS)

The concept behind TREASURE WORLD, a new and innovative game for the portable Nintendo DS platform, challenges players to collect thousands of treasures for your little alien character, who is stranded on earth. How do you accomplish this? By walking, driving, or cycling in your neighborhood and letting the Nintendo DS/DSi detect wireless networks from homes or businesses. For every time a new Wi-Fi "hotspot" is detected (you don't have to connect) you'll amass new stars which can be used to purchase treasures that range from articles of clothing and dance moves to facial features and hair styles to trees and statues to music notes, songs, and brief bits of dialogue.

The game is incredibly fun as you try to collect as many treasures as you can, including an optional web component that allows trading of treasures between gamers, but it's not a flawless experience. One issue is that the game has only one saved-game slot, therefore only one person can enjoy the game at time, unlike most Nintendo DS games that you (and friends) create up to three profiles. But Treasure World cleverly takes advantage of the wireless connectivity built into the Nintendo DS to create a unique game experience – especially for those who love collecting.

Online interaction: Players can connect on a website and trade virtual items in the game. Whoever sets up the account (such as a parent) can disable interaction with other players, if desired.

Available on: Nintendo DS
Available online
Genre: Mini-games
Developer: Aspyr
Released on: July 7, 2009
Price: $29.99
ESRB Rating: E for N/R