‘A Closer Look’ is a weekly feature here at nWaffle where I take a closer look (get it?) at a great looking game that isn’t getting the hype it should be. No Smash Bros., no Mario, no Zelda around here… just the little guys that deserve just as much attention, but don’t get it. This week’s game is Nanostray 2 for the DS.

Nanostray 2 is a game from the most classic of all game genres: the 2D shoot ‘em up. Or shmup, as we like to say. The first Nanostray was released for the DS back in 2005, and though it was praised by critics for its fast paced action and amazing graphics, it was largely ignored. Shmups have a hard time finding an audience, especially one that doesn’t have a name like Gradius or R-Type. Still, Majesco decided to localize the sequel, much to the delight of the few fans of the first.

Developer Shin’en ups the ante over most shmups by having stages scroll both horizontally and vertically. This adds lots of variation to the level design and keeps things interesting in a genre that can grow stale. The game ahs a huge focus on customization, allowing you to not only choose which special weapons you want to use, but also the angle at which they’ll be mounted on your ship. Nanostray 2 also allows you to choose from a variety of different control schemes to find whatever suits you best. The games single player mode has been beefed up beyond just a simple dogfight through space. High scores can be uploaded to the Nanostray 2 website via the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. Players who are incredibly skilled will also be able to tackle the game’s challenge mode, where you’ll have to beat levels under certain restrictions. If that isn’t enough, Nanostray 2 also features a myriad of multiplayer features, including two player co-op and versus modes. From a technical standpoint, the game is absolutely gorgeous. Fluid 3D, scaling enemies, and eye-popping special effects give the title a look which is hard to match. While not as amazing as it looked when the first Nanostray was released, Nanostray 2 still holds up well against any title on the system. See for yourself in the trailer below.

Nanostray 2 is shaping up to be one of the best shoot ‘em ups to come out in years. Not only does it have the graphics and features to compete with any of the big budget DS games, but a high level of challenge and several multiplayer modes give it more replay ability than your typical shmup as well. Keep an eye on Nanostray 2, as it hits store shelves on February 12th.