More discoveries in store with Disney's DS Anno 1701

Like the layers of a milk-based cocktail, so it seems with popular DS game genres. So far, we've drunk our way through pet sims, board and pub-style games, but it's the strategy game strata that continues to most whet our appetite.

No surprise then that more screens and details about Disney's forthcoming DS version of PC hit Anno 1701 have us licking our lips.

First up is the official name, Anno 1701: Dawn of Discovery. Next it's the 31 screenshots you can click your way through here. Finally, we have a confirmed release date, July 13th.

As for gameplay details, there will be three modes. There's a complete 15 mission Campaign mode, which follows the progression of the PC game, and sees you colonising an island, attracting folks such as pioneers, settlers, citizens, merchants and aristocrats as you offer them fancier goods and technology.

Avoiding the rat race is possible though, since you can choose to play the endless Exploration mode, while the four-way Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection Multiplayer mode will enable you to test your civilisation-forming skills against players around the world.

What we like most at this stage is the accountant-type advisor who sits on the DS' top screen to provide helpful hints as the game unfolds. We particularly like his cross-eyed expression when he somewhat mournfully warns, 'Caution, someone needs a medic'. And the fearful look when he cries 'Watch out, a warship' is pure theatre.

We can only hope such feelings are entrenched throughout Anno 1701: Dawn of Discovery. Hit the 'Track It!' button to get more news about the game as soon as it goes live.