Finally, BBM provides for a Versus battle mode for DS download play. Requiring only one cartridge, two players can duke it out with each other by turning their DS consoles vertically, launching fireworks at their opponent, and using special powers to protect themselves in three distinct environments.

Rounding out the features, Big Bang Mini even provides an alarm clock. This may seem like a gimmick, but it is not only effective; it's well-implemented. Simply set the desired time you want to wake up, close the DS lid, and at the appropriate moment, the alarm will go off. You will awake to the soothing (and not-so-soothing) tunes from the game. I really liked how the music gradually gets louder, and the ten minute snooze option is also a class act. If you're a hard sleeper though, the little DS speakers may not quite do the trick. Otherwise, it's a neat little add-on.

The controls, visuals, and sounds are all extremely well done. Controlling the game via the stylus is intuitive, though initially challenging. After the first half-hour though, you'll be scooting your basket around the bottom screen, hopping off to blast some baddies, and getting back to the vessel to dodge bullets like a pro. The vibrant, wacky, neon visuals work perfectly on the DS, and the varied enemies, environments, and weapon effects are all very nicely put together. Lastly, the music changes with every new phase, and the instrumental themes perfectly fit the tone of both the level and the game, in general.

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Some budget titles for DS just simply aren't worth the carts they're printed on. However, Big Bang Mini is a $20 title that will rival many of the top releases on the system in 2009. Providing loads of challenging content, a funky presentation, and fresh gameplay mechanics, Big Bang Mini is the little title that could!

By Jonathan Marx
CCC Editor / News Director