GamesRelay

Name: 24/7 Solitaire

Solitaire games are a dime a dozen these days, yet only two are currently available on DSiWare. While each different version of Solitaire offers the same basic game experience, it's the variations on Solitaire which can really extend the games life. 24/7 Solitaire by GameOn isn't just your basic Solitaire card game, it offers around 30 different variations on the classic and a game mode quite far from anything available in similar titles.

Any card game fan or anyone that knows what Solitaire is will at least have some knowledge of how the game plays and what you need to do, for those that don't then the game can be a little bewildering since 24/7 Solitaire doesn't offer any tutorial or instructions on how to play. There is an option to view some playing tips however but these are established on the basis that you already know how to play Solitaire and aren't a first time beginner. If you're unsure then it would probably be best to read up on the card game over the internet.

With so many variations to choose from there's plenty on offer to keep you entertained, some of which include Klondike, Spider Solitaire, FreeCell, Four Seasons, and plenty more, most are just a slight variation on the rules, but the end result in inevitably the same. 24/7 Solitaire's main featurette however isn't its variations on the established game, it's the inclusion of Peg Solitaire.

Peg Solitaire is unlike any of the other Solitaire variations you'll be able to play, it's really only related by name alone and is played in a completely different manner. The goal is fairly simple however, you pick one of seven different boards, each having a number of different holes, all but one of these have a ball in it which you must use to hop over one another to remove them, you'll finish the board by having only one ball left and it being centred in the middle of the board, sound easy? It isn't.

Much like GameOn's previous card game offerings 24/7 Solitaire includes a hints system which gives you five hints to use during a game, these highlight the card which the game recommends you move next. While it might seem prudent to use the hints generously as a beginner, you'll soon learn these are best left towards the end of the game where it can become a real struggle. On top of the hints system is the ability to undo and redo any moves you make, should you make a mistake that is.

GameOn have gone for a minimalist approach with 24/7 Solitaire, the graphics and sound are more than adequate for the job but they are a little basic considering the Nintendo DSi's capabilities, but then this is a card game so nothing fancy is really needed. The controls are also fairly simple and responsive, you use the stylus to select the cards you want to move and the buttons you want to press.

This new Solitaire offering on the DSiWare store is certainly the most feature packed version, with plenty of variations, and the inclusion of Peg Solitaire, it offers plenty to do but does come at a slightly high 500 point asking price. If you're a fan of Solitaire or are looking for a simple card game to pass the time then this could very well be one to buy, but you really need to know how to play Solitaire first.