So Ubisoft has picked up Minna no Curling DS. This is a niche game if I ever saw one. I’m finding it really hard to let my distaste for one of the most ridiculous sports ever not color my impressions of Curling DS. Here goes nothing…

Good fit with the DS Hardware?

You would expect that the rectangular shape of the DS’s dual screens would be perfect for displaying a 2D curling rink. And it would be, if there was not a big plastic hinge between them. As you watch the rocks scroll down the screen, it really messes with your timing when you see a stone jump that gap instantly. Eventually you do get a little better at it. But it is terribly annoying.

That said, it is really fun to sweep with the stylus. I mean, that’s the real attraction to curling right? The sweeping.

Simple Gameplay, Complex Rules

Throwing and controlling the stones is surprisingly simple. Before every shot you must choose a target point, then select stone speed, and then opt for left or right spin. Controlling the stones does take some getting used to, but you’ll come to enjoy it once you get the hang of it. Assuming that the complex rules don’t get the best of you first… The inexplicable fouls had me jumping over to wikipedia pretty quick.



If you’re a curling fan you’ll probably enjoy the bejeesis out of this game. If you don’t understand what curling is about, you’d best let this one pass you by.

We Ninjas are invincible, and do not require support from anyone. However, our IT guy Clyde does need to be paid. So consider buying Curling DS
through our affiliates link. Do it for Clyde. He is weak.