Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney

Who defends the indefensible? Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney. This bumbling rookie lawyer has to get his facts straight and his perspiration under control, because defendants are counting on him in five cases of Nintendo DS drama. It will have you testifying that the adventure genre is alive and well.

Phoenix has his work cut out for him, including examining the scene of the crime, working with law enforcement, consoling the defendant, and cross-examining witnesses. It's a dirty job, but one made much cleaner with the intuitiveness of the DS touch screen. You won't have to touch a single button during play. The game also keeps track of all the facts and evidence in a handy menu system. But don't depend entirely on the game to remember all these facts - taking extended breaks can make you forget what was happening in the first place.

Ace takes an analytical mind and keen eye to win. Cross-examining witnesses requires you to sweat the details to find inaccuracies and present proof to back up your claims. It's a satisfying gaming experience, no doubt - even if there's no twitch action whatsoever.

Winning a case isn't simply a matter of having the truth on your side; you've got to be savvy and slick, as only a lawyer can. Though you're treated to a rundown of the events leading up to the crimes before each chapter, it takes a lot of convincing (and a wee bit of conniving) to come out on top.