It's DS Party Time!
Despite the gorgeous visuals, lovable characters and a shining HEXUS review, Viva Piñata struggled to reach the mainstream when it launched on Xbox 360. In an effort to breathe more life into what could be a hugely successful franchise, development team Rare are bringing Viva Piñata to the Nintendo DS and in turn, a market which is sure to snap up what the game has to offer.
From the Rare development team, Justin (lead designer), Gary (DS designer), Grant (musician), Ryan (concept artist), Ed (lead artist) and Will (lead programmer) took an opportunity to answer questions from fans and by doing so, provided us with a glimpse of what Viva Piñata DS will have to offer.
When asked what extra features the DS version may contain, Gary states "VPDS is a streamlined version of the 360 version, all of the features are present from the 360 version but we have utilised the dual screens to give the player instant information about requirements etc. Also we have implemented a full touch screen interface which really adds to the game experience. On top of that we have new Piñatas, tools etc".
Though not wanting to give too much away in regards to new Piñatas, he did go on to say "if you're lucky you might get to see a Bispotti or maybe even the elusive Jeli."
A question in regards to the DS graphics in comparison to the Xbox 360 was always on the cards and Justin answered it by simply saying "The DS graphics are amazing, they are as amazing on the DS as the 360 version graphics were on the Xbox 360. In fact it's amazing that all the amazing graphics, no matter what platform, can only be described as amazingly full of amazingness".
Sounds as though we'll have a lot to look forward to in the DS version of Viva Piñata. As a big fan of the original game on the Xbox 360, I'm looking forward to seeing how Viva Piñata DS lives up to expectations.
Full Q&A with Rare: http://www.rareware.com/extras/tepidseat/vivapinata/index-lrg.html
