Neku Sakuraba is understandably confused when he wakes up in an alternate reality called the UG (Underground), where he finds out he has died. The only way he can come back to life is to play the Reapers’ Game, which involves players giving up their most important possession for the chance to play the game. To advance, Neku and his rotating partner must participate in a series of challenges set forth by the reapers in a set amount of time in order to avoid erasure, or destruction of their existence.

Taking place in Shibuya, Japan, players are introduced to two realities not so different from our own. Played on the Nintendo DS, the combat in the game is played across both screens (hence the need for a partner), adding to the player’s challenge of not only protecting Neku, but the partner as well. Additionally, decorative pins can be bought and collected to increase combat ability, and each district has its own fashion, meaning failure to comply with the fashion will result in the decrease of effectiveness. Overall, if a player is a fan of Square Enix’s Kingdom Hearts and/or Final Fantasy series, this game runs in a similar vein, but also offers an entirely unique and enjoyable experience that players will have a hard time quitting. Highly recommended. Grades 6 and up. ( )