Yu-Gi-Oh! gets DS global multiplayer mode

Maybe it's because the DS is a handheld device, but it's certainly currently getting its share of card-based games – everything from the Marvel Trading Card game to SNK vs Capcom Card Fighters and Battles of Prince of Persia is, or will be, on offer.

Meanwhile, the long-running Yu-Gi-Oh! card-based series is already onto its third DS game.

Going the way of FIFA and Madden, Yu-Gi-Oh! has now comfortably slipped into an annual refresh. Yu-Gi-Oh! World Championship 2007 is currently being primed for an eager fanbase who just can't wait to get their hands on all 1,600 of the latest cards, which enable even more attacking, spell-casting and defending possibilities.

But the big news this year is the inclusion of support for the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, something first introduced in the offshoot Yu-Gi-Oh! GX: Spirit Caller. (Indeed, owners of GX Spirit Caller will be able to trade entire decks between the two games and, after beginning the game, can access every card in GX Spirit Caller via the card recipe.)

The Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection mode will enable you to play head-to-head against players from all over the world, while the local wi-fi mode is available for players in the same location. Both options will allow you to trade and swap cards, and the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection mode will also support pre-game voice chat. If you're using the local mode, you can just shout out whenever the mood takes you.

When it comes to single-player duels, you'll want to try your hand in Limited Duels, where only certain cards are available, and Survival Duels, where the aim is to defeat as many enemies before your inevitable demise.

Due for release in April, the game will come bundled with three limited edition Yu-Gi-Oh! cards.