D3Publisher of America, Inc., a publisher and developer of interactive entertainment software, today announced the release of Hi Hi Puffy AmiYumi: The Genie & the Amp based on Cartoon Network's hit original series Hi Hi Puffy AmiYumi. Inspired by real-life superstar rockers Ami and Yumi, the game chronicles the adventures of two very cool pop stars as they battle across 10 unique time periods such as Ancient Rome and the Wild Wild West to find the musical notes needed to play the ultimate world tour. Players will play as Ami or Yumi as they solve challenging puzzles, battle scary enemies and unlock fun mini-games in single player or multiplayer cooperative modes for up to two players through the wireless feature for the Nintendo DS. Hi Hi Puffy AmiYumi: The Genie & the Amp is available now in retail stores across North America for the suggested retail price of $19.99.

"The interactive fun and excitement of the 'Hi Hi Puffy AmiYumi' show lends itself naturally to the world of video games," said Careen Yapp, vice president of licensing and business development for D3PA. "Hi Hi Puffy AmiYumi: The Genie & the Amp has captured the energy and excitement of Ami and Yumi's adventures in one place for gamers of all ages to enjoy."

"D3PA has really captured the musical and fantasy element of the 'Hi Hi Puffy AmiYumi' show," stated Christina Miller, VP U.S. Consumer Products for Cartoon Network Enterprises, the global merchandising arm of Cartoon Network. "D3PA has once again successfully transitioned the characters from the television show in the virtual world of video games."

Developed by Sensory Sweep and rated "E 10+" ("Everyone 10 and older" -- with cartoon violence) by the ESRB, Hi Hi Puffy AmiYumi: The Genie & the Amp introduces a brand new gaming genre -- the 'Rock 'n' Roll Brawler'. Players will utilize the dual screen capabilities of the Nintendo DS as they use the top screen to experience the action and use the bottom screen to strum their guitars and trigger special fighting moves. Players can upgrade the girls' health, luck, attack power, or wealth by collecting ingredients to make sushi or play fun mini-games such as Crane Machine to win more money, stylish uniforms and view additional character models.