From Square-Enix, creators of the acclaimed Final Fantasy saga comes a new chapter in another of their most famous creations: the Mana series.

Children of Mana - coming exclusively to Nintendo DS on Friday - is unique among role-playing games as it offers not only a captivating single-player adventure but also a deep, involving multiplayer mode for up to four people to battle through deadly dungeons together (via wireless Multi-Card play).

On the island of Illusia, in the centre of the world, stands the legendary Mana Tree - sheltering all beneath its mighty limbs. But now its power has grown too great and it begins corrupting the world it once helped. Only four brave heroes have the might and magic to undertake a daring journey through scorching deserts and icy wastelands to drive the forces of evil from the world!

With its twist-laden storyline, outstanding artwork, captivating use of the dual screens, an involving gem-collecting system and the fun and freedom of multiplayer, this new addition to the Mana series is set to be an instant classic.

Children of Mana comes to Nintendo DS on January 12.