Rare unveils Viva Piñata for DS

Microsoft development studio Rare is working on a DS version of its acclaimed Xbox 360 game Viva Piñata.

Developed at the UK-based Twycross studio, the game promises to be "a full-sized Viva Piñata game in your pocket," according to Rare, with the game set to include new characters as well as expanded features and game modes.

Earlier this month Microsoft announced that Viva Piñata: Party Animals for the Xbox 360 was in development at Krome Studios, and that the original title will also be coming to PC's via the Games for Windows initiative.

Rare has developed a number of titles for Nintendo handhelds since being snapped up by Microsoft in 2002, including puzzle game It's Mr Pants, published by THQ.

Microsoft had denied the studio would be working on DS titles in the past, but eventually admitted Rare has taken delivery of software development kits and was working on a project for Nintendo's best-selling handheld console.