When it comes to gaming handhelds, few consoles have endured like the Nintendo DS. This compact system has boasted a wide array of games throughout its history. With so many standout titles, it can be tough to distinguish the best from the rest. Let me simplify things for you. Keep reading as I highlight the top Nintendo DS games you should dive into right now.
15. Dementium: The Ward
New Release: October 31, 2007
Dementium: The Ward is a first-person survival horror game for the Nintendo DS that immerses you in the role of William Redmoor. Your mission is straightforward: escape from a hospital after suffering amnesia, solve puzzles, and fend off the terrifying enemies lurking in the shadows and hallways.
Although first-person games might seem challenging on the Nintendo DS, Dementium: The Ward makes it work. The touchscreen is primarily used for managing inventory and controlling the camera, while a notebook feature helps you keep track of clues and mysteries. While it may not be the standout title on this list, it certainly has its own unique charm.
14. Flower, Sun, and Rain
New Release: June 16, 2009
You might think I’m a bit eccentric for including this title among the best Nintendo DS games, and maybe I am. Flower, Sun, and Rain is an adventure game by SUDA51 and Grasshopper Manufacture, originally a PS2 game ported to the DS. It follows Sumio Mondo, a searcher who is summoned to the island of Lospass to defuse a bomb on a plane. However, he finds himself trapped in a time loop, reliving the days leading up to the explosion and trying to complete his mission.
While the game’s premise and characters are among the most intriguing I’ve encountered on the DS, the gameplay can be a point of contention. Many players find it tedious, but despite this, Flower, Sun, and Rain stands out as one of the best adventure games available on the DS. For those who love adventure games, it’s a must-play—though don’t hesitate to use a guide if you need help navigating it.
13. Professor Layton and the Curious Village
New Release: February 10, 2008
When it comes to the Nintendo DS, the best adventure series on the platform is undoubtedly Professor Layton. While any entry in the Layton series could have made this list, I chose the first game to kick things off. Professor Layton and the Curious Village introduces us to Professor Layton and his apprentice, Luke Triton, as they investigate the village of St. Mystere in search of a mysterious artifact called the Golden Apple.
The Layton games cleverly utilize the DS’s stylus and touchscreen, often requiring players to solve puzzles to advance the story. This inaugural title set the stage for what would become a beloved series, cementing Layton as one of the most cherished video game detectives. Although the series has remained exclusive to Nintendo platforms and mobile phones, it has earned a lasting place in gaming history.
12. Elite Beats Agents
New Release: November 8, 2006
Elite Beat Agents is undeniably one of the best Nintendo DS games, thanks to its engaging rhythm-based gameplay and widespread acclaim. In this game, you control a trio of agents who come to the rescue of people in humorous and challenging situations. Using the DS’s stylus and touchscreen, you tap along with the rhythm to help these characters overcome their problems.
The game’s quirky premise is matched by its original soundtrack, which will have you bobbing your head, tapping your feet, or doing both! While the sequel never made it outside of Japan, the first Elite Beat Agents has left a lasting impression and remains a cherished title among fans.
11. Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow
New Release: October 4, 2005
Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow is one of the few Castlevania titles available on the Nintendo DS and continues the saga of Soma Cruz from the Game Boy Advance game Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow. In this sequel, Soma Cruz, having inherited Dracula’s power, embarks on a quest with his allies to thwart a cult that seeks to end his life and plunge him into darkness.
The game retains the popular Tactical Soul system from Aria of Sorrow, allowing Soma to absorb the souls of defeated enemies (excluding humans and the final boss). Additionally, Dawn of Sorrow makes innovative use of the DS touchscreen with its new “Magic Seal” system, where players draw patterns to defeat powerful foes. This title is a must-play for both Castlevania enthusiasts and newcomers, earning its place as one of the best Nintendo DS games.
10. Trauma Center: Under the Knife
New Release: October 4, 2005
Atlus, renowned for their acclaimed Shin Megami Tensei and Persona series, ventured into new territory during the Nintendo DS era with some standout titles. Among these is Trauma Center: Under the Knife, a gripping simulation game where you step into the role of Dr. Derek Stiles, a surgeon working with the medical team Caduceus to combat a mysterious disease called GUILT.
Featuring one of the most compelling storylines on the Nintendo DS, Trauma Center: Under the Knife presents its narrative in a visual novel format. Though the series remained exclusive to the Nintendo DS and Wii and hasn’t seen a new release in recent years, it has garnered a dedicated fanbase and is considered one of the best games on the Nintendo DS.
9. 999: Nine Hours, Nine Persons, Nine Doors
New Release: December 10, 2009
999: Nine Hours, Nine Persons, Nine Doors is the game that launched the Zero Escape series of visual novels. In this gripping narrative, nine characters find themselves forced to participate in the Nonary Game, trapped on a sinking cruise ship. They must locate a door marked with a “9” within nine hours to escape before the ship goes under and takes them with it.
Though this description simplifies a complex experience, 999 captivates players with its intense storyline. The gameplay, which combines puzzle-solving and adventure elements, supports the narrative, making the story the main focus. This compelling combination has earned 999 a reputation as one of the most captivating stories in video games and a standout title on the Nintendo DS.
8. Advance Wars: Dual Strike
New Release: August 22, 2005
Advance Wars: Dual Strike is a standout turn-based strategy game known for its engaging tactical gameplay and compelling storyline. In this game, you lead your army through intense battles, leveraging new CO powers and navigating dual-front warfare. The addition of features like unit-swapping offers a deep and satisfying experience for fans of turn-based tactics.
One of the key innovations in Dual Strike is the Dual Front system, which enables two simultaneous battles on the Nintendo DS’s screens. Players can control one front while another player or the AI manages the other. The game also introduces new units and offers a lengthy campaign. This combination of features makes Advance Wars: Dual Strike the definitive entry in the series for the Nintendo DS, cementing its place as one of the platform’s best games.
7. Hotel Dusk: Room 215
New Release: January 22, 2007
Hotel Dusk: Room 215 stands out as one of the best Nintendo DS games by a wide margin. This visual novel-adventure game is designed to be played with the DS held horizontally, mimicking the experience of reading a book. You follow Kyle Hyde, an ex-NYPD detective, as he explores the enigmatic Hotel Dusk, solving its mysteries and interacting with its intriguing residents.
Although the developer, Cing, is no longer around and the game remains a Nintendo DS exclusive, its impact is lasting. The quality of Cing’s work in Hotel Dusk ensures it frequently comes up in discussions about the top games for the Nintendo DS.
6. The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass
New Release: October 1, 2007
No Nintendo platform is complete without a Legend of Zelda game, and the DS is no exception. The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass is a top-down action-adventure game that continues Link’s journey following his exploits in The Wind Waker on the GameCube. When Tetra goes missing, Link sets off on a quest across Mercay Island to rescue her.
Phantom Hourglass makes innovative use of the DS’s features, combining on-foot exploration with boat travel. Players seamlessly switch between 3D gameplay and map navigation, battling through various dungeons and embarking on a grand adventure. If you own a Nintendo DS and haven’t experienced a Legend of Zelda game, this title is a must-try!
5. Nintendogs
New Release: April 21, 2005
When selecting a standout pet game for the Nintendo DS, Nintendogs is an obvious choice. This real-time pet simulation game lets you care for a dog of your choice, offering a virtual experience similar to a Tamagotchi.
Nintendogs takes full advantage of the Nintendo DS’s features, including the built-in microphone, to teach and command your dog in various tricks. If you’ve never had a dog of your own, this game provides a close approximation of the experience of being a dog owner. Just remember to regularly feed and clean your virtual pet!
4. The DS Generation of Pokemon Games
Release Date: 2006 – 2010
It might seem like a bit of a cheat, but with so many excellent Pokémon games on the Nintendo DS, I couldn’t pick just one. So, I’ve grouped them together in this entry.
The DS era includes titles like Diamond, Pearl, Platinum, SoulSilver, HeartGold, Black, and White. These games take you on adventures across various regions, where you collect Pokémon, battle trainers, and face off against gym leaders. Each game offers a similar experience of fighting and growing stronger with your Pokémon. If you own a Nintendo DS, this series is an essential addition to your collection.
3. Chrono Trigger
New Release: November 20, 2008
One of my all-time favorite RPGs, Chrono Trigger, made its way to the Nintendo DS, and it stands out as one of the best ports of the game to date. The story follows Chrono and his friends on an epic time-travel adventure, where each era introduces new playable characters with unique abilities. To avoid spoilers, I recommend experiencing the game without any prior knowledge.
On the Nintendo DS, Chrono Trigger looks stunning on the small screen, with its sharp and vibrant pixel art. The game also takes advantage of the DS’s dual screens by moving battle prompts to the bottom touchscreen, clearing up the main screen. Additionally, this version includes two new scenarios. If you haven’t played Chrono Trigger and own a Nintendo DS, it’s a must-play!
2. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney
New Release: October 11, 2005
The exclamation “Objection!” has become iconic among gamers, thanks to the quirky and engaging storyline of Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney. This visual novel from Capcom centers on Phoenix Wright, a lawyer who navigates a series of challenging cases across multiple games.
At its core, Ace Attorney is a visual novel with point-and-click gameplay, where you gather clues to build your case. The courtroom drama is heightened by intense showdowns between Phoenix and his rival, Miles Edgeworth. This game was a standout title that helped define the Nintendo DS era and remains a classic in its genre.
1. The World Ends With You
New Release: July 27, 2007
I’ll conclude my list of the best Nintendo DS games with an RPG set in modern-day Tokyo: The World Ends with You. The game follows Neku, a teenage boy who must participate in a deadly game to survive. With its captivating storyline, stylish visuals, and innovative dual-screen combat system, it delivers a truly immersive and unforgettable gaming experience.
The DS touchscreen is used to draw unique glyphs for attacking enemies, and the microphone occasionally comes into play for special attacks. The World Ends with You is considered one of the standout titles of the Nintendo DS era and is highly recommended by many as a must-play game for the system.
These are the top Nintendo DS games you should experience. Do any of these games stand out as your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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