Square Enix today announced some new details regarding its upcoming DS title Dragon Quest Monsters Joker. The game will take place on seven islands, centering around the main island of Alkapolis. Different monsters inhabit each island. To move from one island to another, the protagonist uses a personal watercraft (PWC). Alkapolis plays host to the so-called Monster GP. Since this tournament's aim is to determine the strongest monster team, it draws monster masters from all islands to Alkapolis. It goes without saying that the protagonist will also take part in the competition, as the winner will not only reap glory, but also precious items as reward for his victory. Alkapolis itself is a pretty diverse piece of land. While a sky garden with medieval buildings can be found in the northern part of the island, Alkapolis also has a less welcoming face: Barracks, located in a gloomy cave, where people lament their environment.

Dragon Quest Monsters Joker will be available in Japan sometime later this year.

• Famitsu