10tacle Studios, along with First Star Software and Tuna Technologies have released the first screenshots for the upcoming Boulder Dash - ROCKS! on the Nintendo DS, looking to bring the series right up to date with a graphical touch up and a makeover for the game’s hero, Rockford.

Although it’s had a generous aesthetical alteration, the firms involved were keen to keep the much-loved gameplay elements in tact. As such, the objective to collect a number of diamonds while avoiding falling objects, traps and enemies in order to open and discover the exit before time runs out, is still key to progressing. Even more satisfying for ye olde fans of the franchise is that Boulder Dash’s original physics have been retained. Players will also have the likes of lasers to freeze adversaries and break boulders, or even to pull distant diamonds towards them. Lovely stuff.

In addition to the single-player mode, Boulder Dash - ROCKS! will include a multiplayer mode, as well as additional modes to bring the total to five, two of which have never been seen in the series - one designed specifically for the Nintendo DS (the PSP version will receive the other).

“To have the opportunity to work with one of the games responsible for so many of us entering the game industry is a great honour,” said Alex Amsel, Managing Director of Tuna Technologies. “We are really excited to be partnering with 10TACLE STUDIOS and First Star Software, and to co-develop what we feel will be a great addition to the Boulder Dash® series”.

There’s no specific details on said various gameplay elements just yet, so we’ll bring you more as we get it.