In the ultimate example of cooperative gameplay, new DS game Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Blue Rescue Team - due out next month - will let your pals link up with your game to bring you back to life. And all the while you'll be playing as one of your favorite Pokemon.

The game's Rescue mode produces a password whenever you fail to complete a dungeon. This password can then be given to a friend who can enter your game using DS' wireless connectivity and rescue you from the dungeon, so allowing you to play the game from that point rather than the last save point.

This new mode is also possible for the GBA version of the game, called Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team, by using the GBA link cable.

Above: The DS version will use the top screen to display a map.

Both games will break new ground for Pokemon titles as this time you will be playing as a Pokemon rather than a trainer. Players will take a personality test at the start of the game and, depending on the results, will become one of 16 playable Pokemon, including such greats as Pikachu, Charmander, Squirtle and Bulbasaur.

August 14, 2006