Taito has released the first official set of screenshots for its Nintendo DS action puzzler, Exit. The title, which was originally developed for the Sony PlayStation Portable and released in late 2005 sees its protagonist, Mr. ESC, well… escape places and dangerous situations.

Mr. ESC is set a time limit to retreat from the likes of hospitals, underground facilities, offices and other buildings, with points awarded on speed and efficiency. Objects that hinder players’ progress include fires and earthquakes, while you might also need to help trapped civilians along the way.

The individuals come in four types:

• Normal adults - These people can climb over moderate height obstacles and can jump, and can also assist each other or Mr. ESC in various tasks.
• Children - Children can only climb over small heights but can be assisted by Mr. ESC or a normal adult. They cannot jump as far as adults, but can traverse passages too small for Mr. ESC or other adults.
• Large adults - These people can push very large objects, but cannot climb over moderate obstacles without help from at least two people (MR. ESC and another adult, or two adults).
• Injured people - They must be either carried by Mr. ESC or an adult to the exit, or, if a stretcher is available, wheeled to the exit.

Check out the new screens above, stills that show off Exit’s unique and engaging art style.

Exit is currently penned for a January 2008 release in Japan, let’s hope a Western release follows closely afterwards.