Ubisoft has taken the Nintendo DS’ image as a machine for casual gamers to a whole new level today, with the news that the company is to launch a series of games under the Imagine banner. Targeted at girls between 6 and 14 years, it aims to allow the audience to explore their interests in an interactive and entertaining way.

The first games in the Imagine line will launch in October 2007 for the Nintendo DS: Imagine Fashion Designer, Imagine Animal Doctor, Imagine Babyz and Imagine Master Chef. Imagine™ Figure Skater will follow in early 2008.

We hope Ubisoft isn’t trying to encourage teenage pregnancies…

“Ubisoft is excited to finally offer young girls a line of games that give them the chance to explore their hobbies and interests in interactive and creative experiences,” said Helene Juguet, senior director of marketing at Ubisoft. “Our consumer research revealed that the young girls’ market has been relatively overlooked. We are happy to introduce a variety of titles relevant to what girls in this age group have indicated they are most interested in.”

Behold a breakdown of each game:

Imagine™ Fashion Designer invites players to become hip Manhattan designers handling all aspects of the fashion business, from creating their own line of clothing to directing photo shoots. Online gameplay allows players to share their designs and ideas with friends and fellow aspiring young fashionistas.

Imagine™ Animal Doctor puts young players in the role of a veterinarian, not only by treating and curing all types of animals, but also by creating new facilities to expand the veterinary hospital.

Imagine™ Babyz® is the first simulation game focused on caring for babies. Players take on the challenges of raising a baby throughout all stages of development and will also be able to take photos and exchange tips and clothing through a unique online component.

Imagine™ Master Chef allows players to create recipes from all over the world using the stylus to prepare, stir and cook ingredients. Players can customize their kitchens with utensils and appliances. Fun mini-games include cooking quizzes and kitchen challenges.

In Imagine™ Figure Skater, players live the life of a champion who needs to balance her life between training, school and friends. Girls take on the role of a professional figure skater and use the stylus to perform jumps, spins and a variety of skating combinations.

There’s quite a bit of speculation on the Internet today claiming that Ubisoft has taken so-called ‘non-gaming’ too far with this latest announcement. However, as far as we see it, it’s not too dissimilar to the numerous ‘life training’ software packages that has infiltrated the ranks of the DS in the Japanese market. What it boils down to is that Ubisoft is a profit-chasing firm, and if it believes the Imagine franchise is going to have the bucks rolling in, then we don’t think they give two hoots about what the critics say in reference to streotyping of women and other related issues.