The World Ends with You

The World Ends with You is a 2007 handheld action-RPG developed by Square Enix and Jupiter for the Nintendo DS. Set in a stylized, contemporary version of Tokyo's Shibuya district, it follows the withdrawn, antisocial teenager Neku, who is forced to compete in a deadly week-long "Reapers' Game" among the dead.

Its combat ingeniously used both DS screens simultaneously, with players controlling Neku via touch- and gesture-based "pin" powers on the bottom screen while directing a partner with the directional pad above. A fashion-driven progression system tied to trendy real Shibuya brands and districts, a distinctive graffiti-and-street art style, and a stylish soundtrack gave it a bold, unique urban identity.

The World Ends with You earned a devoted cult following for its inventive dual-screen design, presentation and themes about connection and self-acceptance. It has since been remastered and ported to newer platforms with revised controls, and later received a full 3D sequel, widening its audience considerably.