myNotebook

System: DSiWare
Developer: Nnooo
Publisher: Nnooo
Genre: Application
Players: N/A
Points: 200

Depending on your needs, myNotebook could be an essential purchase. Personally, having a digital notebook on the DSi just makes a lot of sense. I tend to take my DSi with me when I set out for my daily trips to Mars and back, but pen and paper? Yeah, not so much. It's really something that should have been included with the system in the first place, and while Nintendo's Flipnote Studio offers the basic functionality, this has a much better feel to it.

From Australian developer Nnooo, myNotebook is basically just that - a notebook. You get 32 pages to fill up (I felt the urge to draw Captain Falcon in mine) with a variety of pens and pencils. Holding the DSi on its side, pages are flipped with the D-Pad, or the X and B buttons for us lefties. The page turning animation and sound effect is pretty authentic! This is virtual reality, baby.

The application offers a range of options, including what colour pen you want to use, its thickness, an eraser and a clear screen trigger that'll instantly wipe the page. This option bar can be tucked away with the tap of a button. The paper type can also be switched between lined and grid. Over time you'll find yourself unlocking new paper designs, there are 18 in all. Those with Nnooo's Pop+ Solo on their DSi will receive a special bubble-themed design.


Your notes are saved automatically, and the application will boot up on the last page you were writing on. It's very quick, easy and convenient. There's also some excellent chill out music by Beat Therapy; it's almost scary how well suited it is. Of course, it can be turned off if you feel the need. Oh, and this review is based on myNotebook: Blue. There'll also be a Red and Green edition, but the only difference between them is the colour of their front cover and paper.


Score: 8/10 - "Good buy"
Shopping lists, a game of hangman, general notes while out and about, Captain Falcon, whatever! It's obviously not going to be for everyone, but myNotebook is a handy and well designed application.

Review by Lance McGill (Infernal Monkey)