With a simple control scheme and super-cute subject matter, Zhu Zhu Pets DS is a great game for young kids and even some toddlers.

The game starts by letting the player select one Zhu Zhu Pet to learn to take control of and care for.  Once inside the Zhu Zhu Pets home, you’ll learn the basics of dragging  treats to your hamster, such as carrots for a healthy snack, or hearts which represent giving your Zhu Zhu Pet some love.  Everything is explained via voice over as well as text, so even kids who can’t read will be given some direction.

Players can drag their Zhu Zhu Pets to different areas of the room, such as the exercise area, sleeping area and bathroom, and also take them to the trophy icon, to participate in what are essentially little mazes to earn more upgrades for your room, unlock levels, and eventually earn more Zhu Zhu pets.

The mazes are very simple to control, with players simply needing to point the stylus at the screen where they want their Zhu Zhu Pet to go.  The first levels are fairly simple, without much choice in where to go, but as the game progresses, the levels become bigger, more colorful, and more complex.  Future levels will see your Zhu Zhu Pet on a skateboard, in a hamster ball, or even in a mini-car.

Although you continue through and unlock more trophy levels as you finish them, and each level announces it’s objectives, the game doesn’t  make it crystal-clear exactly what you need to do to earn more Zhu Zhu Pets.  Every so often, you’ll just be rewarded at the end of a level by being told that you’ve earned a new Zhu Zhu Pet.

Zhu Zhu Pets is a great game for young kids and even toddlers who are familiar with how to control a DS with the stylus.  The simple, verbal objectives and reinforcement allow non-readers to understand and enjoy their pet interaction.  Parents can even sit beside their kids and help remind them when their Zhu Zhu Pets need something, or encourage them as they progress through the mazes.