Naruto: Ninja Council 3 for Nintendo DS to be launched

Originally released in Japan in 2005 as Naruto Saikyô Ninja Daikesshû 3, the game is now also due for release in the West, during Spring 2007, under the title Naruto: Ninja Council 3. Announced by D3Publisher of America and Tomy Corporation, Ninja Council 3 is based on episodes from VIZ Media's hit anime series Shonen Jump Naruto and will feature mission-based gameplay for up to four players. Wireless, that is.

Word is the ninja action game utilizes an interchangeable attack system allowing players to combine attack techniques from all available characters in the mission to increase their chance of success:

The new interchangeable attack system and the ability to choose from over 20 playable characters are a first in hand-held Naruto games," said Careen Yapp, vice president of licensing and business development, D3PA. "We feel very strongly that this game will appeal to both the fans of Naruto and DS gamers that enjoy action games.

Using the new interchangeable attack system, players select a main character to complete the mission and then customize their attack scheme by selecting special techniques from other available characters - increasing their chance of success by combining the best techniques for the mission. Players can activate special attacks using the Nintendo DS stylus on the touch screen or by blowing into the microphone.

Just like a true ninja, in Naruto: Ninja Council 3, players will have to protect, defend or defeat as they train hard to perfect their skills in order to progress through the ranks in over 40 missions ranging in difficulty from moderate to challenging. Up to four players (wireless) can choose from over 20 different characters with four different playing modes including Timed Mode, Scroll Collection Mode and Head-to-Head Versus Mode.