Multiplayer mayhem in new DS Tank Beat video
Big metal boxes go boom boom
There's nothing we like more than the smell of diesel fumes and cordite, although preferably not at the same time (that really would be a dangerous cocktail). Throw in some touchscreen-controlled DS tank action for afters, and we're as happy as Larry on Happy Larry's birthday.
Of course, that's all just a convoluted way of saying how excited we are about Tank Beat, which has finally got its US release.
It's a typical mixture of cute Japanese art style with some vaguely realistic modelling of World War II fighting vehicles (the likes of the Jagdpanther, King Tiger, Stuart, and T34) plus more modern weapons such as Multiple Rocket Launcher Systems.
In all, 20 tanks will be unlockable as you fight your way through the game. In fact, according to Mike 'Monty' Pepe, product manager at US publisher O3, "It's critical to pick the right tank for each battle. Tank Beat is very balanced in that each tank has a weakness that can and does get exploited by other vehicles."
The main single-player mode is split into 27 Campaign missions, which revolve around a newbie tank commander who's thrown into battle to defend his country from an aggressive neighbour. There are also 30 Skirmish levels, which enable you to practice on any of the maps and tanks you've unlocked, plus get your hands on extra tanks and three bonus stages.
Multiplayer is supported using adhoc wi-fi or via the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, with up to four gamers pitched into free-for-all sessions as demonstrated in this video footage. Just check out those spectacular explosions!