If you mix the phrases “thought provoking” and “puzzle game”, then the result would probably be something like this new release on the DSi, by the name of Save the Turtles.

Sabarasa have announced that this puzzle game will soon be exclusively available from Nintendo DSiWare, and it involves you solving puzzles in order to save endangered sea turtles making their way to the sea.

The game itself is set on a beach, and the vulnerable turtles must be protected from predators such as seagulls and crabs. Your job is to direct them towards the sea without them being hurt by predators, the heat of the sun or oil spillages, bringing real life environmental problems to the forefront of the players mind.

Javier Otaegui, CEO and founder of Sabarasa, said:

“Save the Turtles was created to provide fans with a very entertaining game that stimulates the mind through imaginative puzzle solving, is pleasing to the eye as well as bringing current environmental issues to light…We believe Save the Turtles provides consumers with fun and compelling entertainment content that feels like it should cost more than it actually does.”

Gameplay boasts four modes: “Save the World,” “Quick Play,” “Tidal Wave” and “Turtles Forever.” There are 32 levels in “Save the World” mode and the aim is to save all seven species of sea turtles by hatching eggs laying on the beach. Line up hatched turtles and make sure they are not pestered by predators.

“Quick Play” allows for instant puzzle fun, “Tidal Wave” brings the equation of wind direction into proceedings, and “Turtles Forever” provides tough challenges for you to score more points in.

So if this sounds like your thing, the expected release date is in the first quarter of this year, so keep your eyes peeled. In the mean time, enjoy these images. Please click on the thumbnails below to see full size screenshots.

Save the Turtles [Official game website]

Press Release [Sabarasa]