Bust-A-Move DS

 DS
Metascore
75

Generally favorable reviews - based on 14 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 9 out of 14
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 14
  3. Negative: 0 out of 14
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  1. Cheat Code Central
    90
    Although I do like playing Ultra Bust-a-Move on the Xbox, mainly for the larger screen, I have to admit that this DS version is hands-down the best version of this franchise due to the control system and the new swap-a-ball feature. Get this game.
  2. BonusStage
    87
    Put a few hours into this and you’ll be dreaming of diminutive dragons and blissfully bursting bubbles when you finally get some sleep.
  3. Game Chronicles
    82
    But glitz and glamour aside, this is one challenging and addictive puzzle game that will keep you highly entertained for weeks and months to come.
  5. Nintendojo
    81
    The intuitive touch control and signature gameplay far outweigh the bare-bones presentation and lack of any new game modes.
  6. Thunderbolt
    80
    But behind the cheery presentation and cartoonish graphics, there’s a quality puzzle game that is second to none in the DS’s game library.
  7. G4 TV
    80
    There are unlockable levels, a hidden character, and other new additions to the DS version, but it’s the use of the system’s unique abilities that make this one of the best versions of the Bust-a-Move ever.
  8. IGN
    75
    Surprisingly, the core gameplay isn’t hurt by the new touchscreen control. In fact, it enhances it by picking up the pace and making things a bit more frantic.
  9. Nintendo Power
    75
    The traditional controls feel a little more precise than the new touch screen feature, but the touch screen allows for faster response. [Feb 2006, p.99]
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  10. GameShark
    75
    So for the same old good game with a new way to control it, Bust-a-Move DS earns an above-average "B" score.
  11. GameSpot
    73
    The addition of touch screen support could have ruined Bust-A-Move DS, but its solid execution, along with a great number of puzzles and economical multiplayer support, keeps things fun.
  12. NGC Magazine UK
    70
    Forget the weird controls and it's just Bust-A-Move all over again. A reliable, sensible puzzle choice. [Apr 2006, p.40]
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  13. Modojo
    60
    It's just a good, entertaining puzzle game that manages to somewhat stand out from its predecessors, and it's worth buying if you love the franchise or need a fun videogame to keep you busy.
  14. Eurogamer
    60
    It's very good at what it does, but it doesn't offer anything new.
  15. My Gamer
    58
    Just like every other Bust-A-Move before it. The only real difference is the use of two screens and stylus touch control.

Awards & Rankings

20
#20 Best DS Game of 2005
51
#51 Most Discussed DS Game of 2005
32
#32 Most Shared DS Game of 2005

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
7.3

Mixed or average reviews- based on 7 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 7
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 7
  3. Negative: 1 out of 7
  1. Jabobo
    Dec 31, 2005
    9
    This game is fantastic. I am a big fan of Bust-a-Move 2 on the PS1, which is the only other one I've played. I thought this would be a This game is fantastic. I am a big fan of Bust-a-Move 2 on the PS1, which is the only other one I've played. I thought this would be a crappy rehash with crappier music and graphics. Instead what I found was a clearly superior version of the game, with no loading (obviously), fantastic music, and game mechanics that are new to me (although perhaps not new to the series, I haven't played the last few). The touch screen works great, and does make it fresh. My one complaint is that the old control scheme with the d-pad, while available, is MUCH too sensitive. Much harder to use than on the PS1. I don't think that they spent enough time refining this aspect, which is weird, since it would have been relatively easy. All of the modes are enjoyable and meaty. A+. One of the best games on the DS, easily.… Full Review »
  2. TonyG.
    Dec 19, 2005
    9
    would be a 10, but it lost the puzzle creation mode. although it gained a touch screen element that is awsome. if you liked bust a move for would be a 10, but it lost the puzzle creation mode. although it gained a touch screen element that is awsome. if you liked bust a move for the neo geo, then you will go crazy for this one. as perfect as it can be. will take about 15-20 min to get used to the controls, after that it's 2nd nature and you will be burstingly addicted. I picked up this game 5 days ago and completed like 40 puzzles. right now it is all I am playing. definitly the best bust a move to come out in a long time. arcade perfect, challenging, and most of all pure fun. highly recommended and at $19.99 it's a steal!!! bust a move fans get ready to be addicted all over again. finally another classic bust a move game.… Full Review »
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