Lets search for tre-sha

The DS is home to some unique and original games, many of which take advantage of it's touch screen control and other features not found in the majority of gaming systems. Now a new title from Aspyr, known for their PC to Mac ports, will utilize the console's built-in Wi-Fi to make a brand new game called Treasure World. Announced recently on IGN, this title will challenge players to find real life Wi-Fi hotspots, each of which will unlock a unique item in the game. With thousands of different items to find and collect, you had better bring your DS with you where ever you go, as that local McDonald's may hold some very valuable treasure.

Unfortunately, not much more is known about the title, such as what you do when you're not searching for hotspots. Will it be an Animal Crossing-style adventure, where all the items you find can be displayed in your custom designed home? One thing that is known is that it will build up an online community where players can trade and share items. Hopefully this aspect won't be completely gimped by Nintendo's rather strict online policy which requires the exchange of friend codes to connect to others.

This isn't the first game that uses Wi-Fi to unlock in-game stuff. Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops for the PSP allows players to gather new squad members by searching for hotspots. This was honestly my favorite aspect of the game, despite the fact that none of the unlocked characters were very good. The real thrill just came from pulling out your PSP while shopping at your local supermarket and discovering a brand new sniper to add to your band of merry men. It was a very clever idea that was completely unheard of before, and with a lot more items to collect, it sounds as though Treasure World may be able to pull it off even better. I just hope that Aspyr don't have to deal with lawsuits from parents whose children wandered into some dangerous areas while searching for loot.

Treasure World is scheduled for release this summer. I'll be sure to post any more details about it as they're announced.