Shooting games are a refreshing piece of entertainment, even if they may seem short or too difficult for their own good at times. One of the better handheld shooter games to make the rounds these days is Iridion II for the Game Boy Advance, a well-put-together piece of work that challenges players and provides some refreshing visuals and action. Well, the makers of that game have struck again, this time working their magic on the Nintendo DS. And what magic it is.

Nanostray is an even more visually compelling shooter, putting the Nintendo DS to good use and processing some of the best visuals that the handheld game system has seen yet. Environments look fantastic, ranging from forests to waterfalls. Of course, you won't have time to look at them too long, as you'll be busy defending against an onslaught of enemies. You've got plenty of firepower to your advantage, including some unique power-ups that will help you clean them off the screen with ease.

Nanostray follows the typical shooter formula. It loads up the screen with enemies, gives you options to take them down, and you're through the game after a few stages. However, the game is fun to play, and you can even use the touch screen to a few advantages, like learning a boss' weak point or switching your power-ups midway through the game for a better advantage. It also contains a terrific soundtrack to back up the action.

I love Nanostray. It's got gameplay that holds up well despite the lack of additional stages, and you can link up against a friend for two-player damage. Furthermore, it looks spectacular, better than most DS games before it. If you're a shooter fan, pick up this game immediately.