t feels strange to have to review Master of Illusion. It's not even a game, really - it's more of an electronic magic kit. Nintendo's never been one to shy away from the strange and off-the-wall, and this is yet another example.

The "game" allows any DS owner to learn and perform tricks for a small group of people. There are a decent number of tricks, so not every "show" has to be identical. The structure of the software is set up much like Brain Age-that is, it takes a few days of playing to unlock everything. The audience of this title may be a bit too young and impatient for this type of setup, but there's not much that can be done.

There are three modes available: Solo Magic, Magic Show and Magic Training. Solo Magic is a strange thing where the game plays tricks on the user. Magic Training is a set of mental exercises that supposedly increase your "magical" ability. Magic Show is the main mode, which allows players to perform illusions for others.

The game includes a special Nintendo deck of cards that some tricks use. Most ones, though, just use the touch screen. All seem fairly simplistic, and some are very simple, but they're somewhat charming.

What can I really say? This is a magic set for the new generation. Buy it if you like magic, but it won't make any new converts.

Dec 12, 2007 | 0 comments
Graham Russell