DSiWare games are becoming less and less frequent as the 3DS eShop continues to thrive, getting perhaps more support in its short life than the DSi Shop has had in its entire lifespan. A recent addition to DSiWare is Amida's Path. While this game isn't a beautiful swan song for DSiWare, it does provide a unique experience that shouldn't be completely overlooked.

Controlling a cast of stereotypical Japanese characters, complete with an old man named, well Old Man. The story feels entirely like it comes from Japan, but the dialogue seems as if it was ripped straight out of a translator. The dialogue isn't broken, or even grammatically incorrect, it just seems like it is the literal translation of the Japanese text, not adjusted for English.


The first taste of the gameplay actually comes at the title screen, having to navigate an Amida's Path to get to either Story or settings. The gameplay is rather solid, draw paths in between the lines that separate you from the enemies so you can attack. Be warned that these lines are double edged swords since the enemies can attack you from whatever lines you draw. This adds a shallow layer of depth, which can quickly become complicated if planning is not taken into consideration before attacking. Attacking itself is rather simple, tap a character, they launch an attack, and it follows the lines you have made, all of them. Every line counts, so it is nice to know that they can all be erased with a certain special attack. Every character has a signature move, ranging from rapid fire attacks to health recovery.

While the main game can be beaten in 2 hours, Amida's Path does have replay value with all of its stages having 4 levels of difficulty. While leveling up your party is possible, it isn't necessary to grind to beat the game. What is unnecessary is the sound attacks make when performed in rapid succession, the rest of the soundtrack is all enjoyable, but not exactly memorable. The art style is also appropriate for the game, easily blending in with other 16-Bit RPG styles. Like the soundtrack, it is also unmemorable, but gets the job done.


Amida's Path dared to be different, and that is something that should be commended. The interesting combat system is certainly different, requiring both a sharp mind and fast analysis skills. If either of those things interest you, then you should at least consider buying this game.

Overall: 6/10

Review Copy provided by: Collavier Entertainment