It’s rare to see a DS game aimed at a younger audience that doesn’t a) have a ‘z’ tagged on the end of its name or b) have a couple of ‘celebrities’ prancing around on TV pretending to enjoy it. But perhaps its unfair to sully Starfy with the same brush as today’s casual explosion – as the first Western release in the series so far, it’s arguable that despite its cutesy appearance, only the hardcore would have any idea that this is the fourth game in the series. Indeed, even the gameplay extends slightly beyond the simplicity of the primary-coloured visuals, although that said, a barely existent difficulty curve constantly reminds you that for all its charm, Starfy’s rewards simply aren’t as rich as Mario, Sonic or even Kirby’s highlights.

What it lacks in challenge, though, The Legendary Starfy more than makes up for with ingenuity and diversity. While the star-shaped prince loses a lot of mobility when on the land, the freedom of movement and exploration underwater is a slick and original twist on the usual platform mechanics. Even transitions between the two play styles are well handled, later skills allowing for speedy leaps from one oddly weightless expanse of water to the next. Going off the beaten path or returning to old areas with the endgame skills allows you to find secret exits or treasure chests, the latter often containing dress-up items which make Starfy look amazing and ridiculous in equal measure. Sadly, though, these outfits make it no further than the menu screens and the Starfy you control is always naked and proud.

Seemingly oblivious to the fact that Legendary Starfy was already a dangerously easy game, TOSE made the decision to allow the hero to transform into a number of different animal-themed guises that make progression simpler still. While the more powerful forms generally make levels that call upon their use pathetically simple, the few that introduce more puzzle-led elements win the day. They all look freakishly brilliant, of course, but then that’s just what Starfy does – this is a game where you play as a squeaking starfish while taking advice from a talking clam and chasing a space bunny. All this considered, the story is actually pretty well handled, especially within the platform oeuvre. It’s relatively simple and certain lengthier exposition sequences could use a skip option, sure, but compared to princesses that turn out to be in other castles, this quaint little tale is leagues ahead.

Clever use of 3D backdrops, unlockable mini-games and the ability to have another player join you to help out on certain stages all raise Starfy’s stock, as do the healthy amount of extras to find and enjoy even once you finish the main game. It’s just a shame that there’s only a minimal sense of accomplishment from any given task or this could have been a chance for a star to rise in the West.