Transformers: War for Cybertron is the name for the DS versions of Cybertron Adventures for the Wii. Both are based on the same storyline, but missions and unlocks are a lot different between the two versions. War for Cybertron also comes in two flavors: Autobots and Decepticons. Just like the Wii version, there is a campaign for each of the two factions in the Transformers universe although you must buy each version if you want to play through both on the DS.

The DS version of the game starts out training you on the various controls for the game. The game features full 3D graphics and all movement and targeting is done very well using the L button to lock-on and the Y button to fire. When you first begin the game, you’ll be a lowly recruit and eventually have to work your way up by gaining XP as you defeat enemies along the way. By gaining XP and finding various items, you can upgrade your characters abilities and firepower.

The game is actually more free-roam friendly than its Wii counterpart and allows for full range of movement within levels. It felt a little slow at first, but you can upgrade your character’s speed and also switch to faster Autobots as you progress through the game.

Being developed by Vicarious Visions, who have a great track record on both the DS and the GBA, the game’s graphics are quite impressive. There’s even a radar to track objectives on the lower screen and also an indicator on the top screen showing you where to go. Combat is also very intuitive and allows for gun-based combat as well as melee attacks using a weapon and a shield. The combat is even deeper than the Wii version in my experience with both games. With eight missions and tons of unlockables, there’s a lot to see and do.

Multiplayer

The DS versions also allow for 2-4 player wireless multiplayer allowing players to link-up and battle in various unlockable arenas (there are quite a few to unlock). The multiplayer feels like a 3rd person version of Metroid Prime Hunters but is also a little slower.

Conclusion

The DS versions do some things even better than the Wii version, but there’s really not much that’s unique to these games. After playing through the initial campaign, you’ll be hard-pressed to motivate yourself to find all the items.

Transformers: War for Cybertron Autobots/Decepticons gets a 6.7/10