Orcs & Elves DS details

EA has released more details for the recently confirmed DS version of Orcs & Elves, an action role-playing game originally conceived for mobile phones.

The extra grunt of Nintendo's handheld has let developer id Software bring in 3D graphics, as well as splash out on more levels, items and monsters from the new Dwarven kingdom area. And touch-screen input is said to be an area the team is keen to get to grips with.

"Orcs & Elves was a perfect fit for the DS," said John Carmack, founder and technical director at id Software. "We were able to take excellent advantage of the 3D hardware and unique user input capabilities, and expand the game to include a lot of wonderful features that we just couldn't fit on the cell phones."

A sequel for Orcs & Elves was also announced by EA, banishing fears that the first game was a one-off pet project for the Doom and Quake developer.

The story here starts as King Brahm is slain on Mount Zharrkarag, putting the fate of the land on your shoulders - a novice thief who has just stolen a legendary wand. You must deliver this magical relic to the town under siege before it's too late, encountering allies, enemies, and lots more new content from seven vast and interactive environments.

"Orcs & Elves II is a polished gem of a game for the mobile platforms, opening up new parts of the world to explore while carrying forward and improving all the elements that were loved about the original game," continued Carmack.

Orcs & Elves on DS and Orcs & Elves II for mobiles are due this Christmas.