Tower defense games are unique in the strategy genre. This is twofold. First, all you have to do is “plant” a few towers and watch the sparks fly. Second, the games requires some excellent strategy — mostly in the form of micromanagement. Either you have to improve your towers or send your hero to slow things down enough for the turrets to destroy the opposition. Suffice to say, depending on the game, things can get difficult very quickly. But let me introduce you to one of the most accessible tower defense games: Lock’s Quest for the DS.

Lock’s Quest follows the exploits of young Lock, an apprentice archineer. Archineers are very important as they are able to build structures out of Source. Unfortunately, there has been a revival of evil machines known as “Clockworks.” And Lock’s idyllic village was swiftly destroyed. Adding insult to injury, his little sister Emi was kidnapped. So it is up to Lock to destroy the Clockworks and rescue his sister.

The graphics engine emphasizes this plot. The graphics are grainy and cartoony. But do not dismiss Lock’s Quest because of its cute looks. You’ll see the main characters’ portraits, and they will change depending on which emotion is being shown. Clockworks stately march toward your encampment. Lock smoothly runs around the map. Locations and attack selection creations are clearly recognizable. For something that is built on a tile system, it feels rather organic. Ultimately, say what you will about this game, it works.

Gameplay, while not entirely unique, works just as well. In fact, it’s highly accessible and rather intuitive. You’ll use the stylus to move Lock around, select creations, build and attack. The game follows the same structure: Move around the map talking to the locals (this occurs before each new scenario), building your defenses and then attacking.

Building wise, all you need to do is select the proper item (walls, turrets, traps or helpers) and drag it into the position you want. An item will automatically connect if another structure is near it. Turrets are your main source of attacks. They range from basic bullets to blobs of goo that slow machines to air attack specialties. They also benefit from being connected to walls because they gain a defense bonus. Traps live out their usefulness for one day but can cause serious problems for Clockworks through the use of acid or freezing blasts. Then the helper robots augment the strength of your turrets. While this is somewhat complex, Lock’s Quest does not throw all of this information at you. Instead, it gradually eases you into its world. It wants you to succeed.

Whenever Lock attacks, it has you doing something “special” to the touchscreen. At first, it has you “punching” buttons in the proper order for a critical hit. Then it has you twisting a gear the right way so you can inflict an acid effect. And who can forget the awesome lightening attack that can be created when you have destroyed enough robots and repaired walls. Before you can use a new creation, you have to build it. So there is also a light puzzle game.

In fact, the entire system works very well. Turn it on and play for a few minutes. Levels literally last only 10 minutes. So if you do not have much time, it isn’t a problem. One downside is that touchscreen controls can be a little shaky at times. It can be frustrating getting barricades and turrets in their proper places, connecting them properly for an excellent defense. It is even more frustrating tapping on a certain enemy but ending up either running around away from the action or attacking the wrong opponent. For a game like this, absolute control is necessary. The good news is that it only slowed me down from completing a mission and didn’t stop me.

Sound wise, everything is excellent. Clockworks walk with metallic sounds. Turrets have a strong “bang” to them. Lock’s attacks have a strong “clang.” I enjoyed the epic music of combat as it helped me stayed absorbed in the action. Sure, the same few songs are heard several times, but I really didn’t mind. Sadly, there’s no voice acting. Perhaps I’ve been spoiled by CD games and very specific DS games.

So is Lock’s Quest worth your time? Yes — especially if you’re interested in tower defense games. It is a fun way to fill in those moments when you only have 15 minutes to spare. Heck, it’s fun to play even when you have a full hour. Lock’s Quest could stand a bit more polish, but it is an awesome introduction to the tower defense strategy genre. I saw it at Best Buy for about $15. And that’s one heck of a steal. What are you waiting for? Go lock your sights on destroying the Clockworks!