Ghost Recon Shadow Wars Is A 3DS Must Buy

We’ve been worry a bit, here at Kotaku, about the launch titles lined up for this weekend’s kick off of Nintendo’s 3DS. The platform is a neat device with plenty of potential, but the games so far available mostly aren’t quite there.

Enter Ghost Recon Shadow Wars. This turn-based strategy game foregos the bells and whistles of 3DS’ tech offerings (like StreetPass, the gyroscope and pedometer) to focus instead on delivering an engaging tactical experience with a bit of 3D panache.

While I found even the 3D a bit off putting at times, especially with the constant looking back-and-forth between 2D and 3D screens, the basic gameplay of Shadow Wars is so much fun, so reminiscent of tactical titles like X-Com, that I couldn’t put it down.

Players control a small team of recon soldiers as they work their way through the game’s 35 missions. The game also includes 20 skirmish maps, a pass-and-play option for multiplayer and six classes, all of which can be upgraded with skill points. You can also unlock new weapons and gear.

There are also a ton of clever interface design choices made in the game which make it a joy to play. (Check out the video.)

I haven’t had a chance yet to play through the entire game, but the short time I’ve spent with it has me convinced this is a must have, must play titles for any portable. It just happens to be only coming to the 3DS.