japanese gaming publication "famitsu" gave it a 33 out of 40 score. many reviewers noted that despite being highly similar to "aria of sorrow", it managed to define itself as a standalone title. "gamespot" commented that "dawn of sorrow" succeeded in continuing 2d games as a definite genre, and that it "keeps that flame burning as bright as ever". "gamespot" also considered it for the accolade of best nintendo ds game of 2005, with the prize ultimately going to "mario kart ds". editors at ign awarded "dawn of sorrow" the prize of best adventure game on the ds for 2005.