First DS screens for Shrek the Third

One of our happiest surprises about DS gaming in 2006 was the fact many titles based on the big movie blockbusters tried to do something a bit different. We really enjoyed Monster House and Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest, while even Cars had the occasional mini-game moments. And Eragon the DS game was much better than Eragon the film.

So where does that leave Shrek the Third?

Well, the first thing to note from the two released screenshots is that the game maker (Vicarious Visions, who was also behind Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam) seems to have gone for an impressive-looking 3D graphics approach. The environments look great.

In terms of the action, the screens show a melee battler, with Shrek and Puss-in-Boots wielding fists and sharp objects to defeat Prince Charming's henchmen – he's trying to take over the kingdom of Far, Far Away, of course. Apparently, each of the playable characters, Shrek, Donkey, Puss-in-Boots, Fiona, Fiona's rebellious cousin Arthur, and Sleeping Beauty have their own special attacks.

Less violent parts of the game will be the so-called Princess puzzle and platform levels, where you get to play as Fiona and Sleeping Beauty and brains not brawn are required to get out of difficult situations.

In terms of the plot, the game appears to follow some of what goes on in the film but new characters and areas will also be introduced. For example, you'll fight through the game-exclusive Evil Queen's Castle location.

Six multiplayer mini-games (Castle Attack, Shrekleboard, Frog Herder, Shooting Gallery, Catacombs Leap and Ships Ahoy) are also promised.

Shrek the Third is released in conjunction with the film in May.