Best games for Nintendo DS

Unfamiliar with games for the Nintendo DS and want to learn about the best series and titles? These are the games you absolutely must play to get acquainted with this platform. The games are listed in alphabetical order.

	999: Nine Hours, Nine Persons, Nine Doors: This is an engaging visual novel developed and published by Chunsoft. Players take on the role of the main character, who wakes up on a ship taken over by a mysterious man named Zero. He explains that the doors on the ship are locked and that to escape, they must go through nine doors. However, each door requires participants to solve various puzzles and complete tasks. Players need to work together with other characters to uncover the mysteries of the ship and survive until the end of the game. The game received positive reviews for its unique and captivating story, interesting puzzles, and original gameplay.
	Advance Wars: Dual Strike: This is a strategy game for portable consoles, where players control an army consisting of various combat units such as tanks, helicopters, and infantry. Players must use their tactical skills and strategies to defeat enemies on different maps. One of the features of the game is the ability to use two commanders instead of one, allowing players to employ various strategies and tactics more effectively. Additionally, the game offers numerous modes, including a single-player campaign, multiplayer gameplay, and various challenges that will test players’ ability to quickly adapt to changing conditions on the battlefield. Overall, Advance Wars: Dual Strike is an excellent game for strategy enthusiasts looking for plenty of opportunities to create their own tactics and defeat enemies.
	Advance Wars: Days of Ruin: This is a strategy game developed by Intelligent Systems for Nintendo’s portable consoles. The game’s story takes place in a post-apocalyptic world devastated by a meteor strike that destroyed much of life on the planet. Players must manage an army and lead it to victory in a series of combat operations. The game features various types of troops, such as tanks, aircraft, ships, and infantry, each with their unique characteristics and abilities. Throughout the game, players can employ tactical maneuvers and strategies to defeat their enemies. Advance Wars: Days of Ruin offers players a deep gaming experience, an engaging storyline, and thrilling battles, making it one of the best strategy games for Nintendo’s portable consoles.
	Brain Age: Train Your Brain in Minutes a Day!: This is a game that enhances mental abilities and helps improve memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. It was created by Japanese neurosurgeon Ryuta Kawashima and includes over 30 different game tasks and exercises. Brain Training employs brain stimulation methods based on principles of neuroplasticity, allowing the brain to adapt and grow. The game is suitable for people of all ages and can be used as a means to improve mental health and professional performance, as well as for entertainment. Brain Training provides the opportunity to track the player’s progress and offers recommendations for improving results. It also features a multiplayer mode that allows players to compete with friends and family.
	Animal Crossing: Wild World: This is a life simulation game where players take on the role of a character who moves to a town inhabited by animals. Players can buy and sell items and furniture in the game, decorate their home, take care of their town, and interact with the residents. The main goal of the game is to enjoy the gameplay and create a unique world filled with various events and interactions. The game allows players to play with friends via local or online connectivity. Animal Crossing: Wild Worldreceived many positive reviews for its beautiful graphics, engaging gameplay, and the ability to create your own character and world.
	Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow: This is an action-platformer game developed by Konami for the portable gaming console. Players take on the role of Soma Cruz, who must stop the resurrection of the main villain—Dracula. The gameplay consists of battles with monsters, exploring the castle, collecting relics, and upgrading weapons. A key feature of the game is the use of the Nintendo DS’s touchscreen, which allows players to draw specific symbols to activate spells. Additionally, players can utilize the abilities of various enemies they defeat during the game. The game has multiple endings depending on the player’s choices and specific conditions met. Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow is an excellent game for fans of the series and enthusiasts of the action-platformer genre.
	Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin: Players control two characters, Charlotte Orlean and Jonathan Morris, who explore various levels, battle enemies and bosses using magical spells and weapons, and solve puzzles to progress in the game. The gameplay also includes the use of special portraits that allow players to transition between different worlds and areas of the game. The game offers both a single-player campaign and a cooperative mode where two players can fight together. Castlevania: Portrait of Ruinreceived positive reviews from critics for its visual style, gameplay, and music, which creates an appropriate atmosphere for a gothic horror game.
	Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia: This is a game developed by Konami for the Nintendo DS. The story revolves around the organization Ecclesia, which is seeking a new way to defeat Dracula’s Castle. Players control Shanoa—a girl chosen by Ecclesia to carry out the mission. She must find three pieces of Dominus, a powerful magical force capable of destroying Dracula’s Castle. Shanoa battles monsters and bosses across various levels, gathering information about the locations of the pieces of Dominus. She can also use Glyphs—abilities that grant her unique powers in combat. At the end of the game, Shanoa must use Dominus to defeat Dracula and save the world from his evil. Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia is an engaging game with excellent graphics and an interesting storyline that will appeal to all fans of the genre.
	Chrono Trigger: This is a role-playing game created by Square Enix. Players follow the heroes—a brave warrior named Crono, a warrior girl named Marle, and an inventor named Lucca—as they travel through time to prevent the impending destruction of the world. In their adventures, they meet other heroes and fight various enemies while traveling through different eras, from ancient times to the distant future. Players must make decisions during conversations and battles that affect the outcome of the game. The game features multiple endings that depend on the player’s actions. Chrono Trigger is one of the most popular and influential role-playing games of all time.
	Contra 4: This is a shooter game developed for the Nintendo DS portable console. The plot of the game revolves around defending Earth from a cosmic threat. Players control soldiers who fight various enemies using a range of weapons and abilities. The game features different levels with a variety of missions and bosses. Additionally, the game supports a cooperative mode for two players, allowing you to play with friends. Contra 4 is a continuation of the popular game series and offers an engaging gameplay experience that combines classic elements of the series with new features made possible by the capabilities of the Nintendo DS.
	Disgaea DS: This is a role-playing game developed by Nippon Ichi Software. Players take on the role of demons who command their armies to defeat enemies and become the most powerful ruler of the Netherworld. Players can upgrade their characters, increase their levels, and teach them new skills. The game also offers numerous secret levels and bonus quests that players can unlock as they progress through the game. Disgaea DS features a unique style and humorous characters that make the game engaging and interesting. The game also has multiple endings, allowing players to enjoy it even more.
	Dragon Quest V: Hand of the Heavenly Bride: This is a role-playing game that tells the story of a young hero searching for his family and fighting against dark forces to save the world. Players will explore various locations, battle monsters, and make new friends who will join their team. The game features a choice system that allows players to make decisions that affect the outcome of the game. It also has a unique monster system, where monsters can join the player’s team and assist in battles. Dragon Quest V: Hand of the Heavenly Bride is one of the best games in the Dragon Quest series and offers an engaging experience for all RPG enthusiasts.
	Dragon Quest IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies: This is a role-playing game developed by Square Enix and released in 2009. Players take on the role of a god-like being who must save the world from evil. The main character must explore various locations and battle monsters. One of the features of the game is the ability to create your own character and join other players in cooperative gameplay. The graphics and sound design in the game are of high quality. Dragon Quest IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies received positive reviews from critics and became one of the best RPGs on the Nintendo DS.
	Etrian Odyssey II: Heroes of Laggard: This is a sequel to the adventure RPG for the Nintendo DS. In the game, players embark on a quest to explore a labyrinth in search of treasures and new knowledge. Players can create their characters by choosing their class, race, and unique skills. The game also features a variety of monsters and bosses that must be defeated to progress further through the labyrinth. The graphics are done in an anime style, and the music creates an atmosphere of mystery and danger.
	Final Fantasy IV: This is a role-playing game released by Square Enix in 2007. Players control the main character, a dark knight named Cecil, and his allies on their journey through the world to stop an evil sorcerer who is trying to destroy the planet. The game features many characters, each with their unique personalities and abilities that can be upgraded throughout the game. Players must also explore worlds, fight enemies, and solve puzzles to progress the story. Final Fantasy IV was remade for the Nintendo DS with improved graphics and sound, as well as additional features such as the ability to save quickly and support for the touchscreen.
	Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars: This is a game developed by Rockstar Leeds for the Nintendo DS platform. It is a continuation of the popular Grand Theft Auto series. The events take place in the fictional city of Liberty City, where players control the main character, Huang Lee, who is trying to uncover the truth about his father’s death. The gameplay includes car theft, shooting, and other elements typical of the Grand Theft Auto series. The game also features mini-games that allow players to earn extra money and level up their character. The game received high praise from critics and became one of the best-selling games for the Nintendo DS.
	Kirby: Canvas Curse: This is a game in which players help Kirby save his world, which has been engulfed in dark magic. In this game, players do not control Kirby directly; instead, they draw lines on the touchscreen to guide him in movement and attack enemies. Players must use their drawing skills to help Kirby overcome various obstacles, collect items, and defeat bosses. The game also features a multiplayer mode where players can compete with friends in completing tasks. Kirby: Canvas Curseoffers colorful graphics, engaging gameplay, and a unique control method that allows players to feel like both artists and saviors of the world at the same time.
	Kirby: Mass Attack: This is a game in which players control small versions of Kirby, which can be gathered into groups of up to 10. The goal of the game is to collect as many of them as possible to overcome various obstacles and defeat enemies along the way. The game features many levels with different tasks, puzzles, and bosses. Players can use the touchscreen to control the group of Kirbys and perform various actions. The game also includes numerous mini-games that can be unlocked by meeting certain conditions. It is a very fun and diverse game that will appeal to both children and adults.
	Kirby Super Star Ultra: This is a game released for the Nintendo DS that serves as an updated version of the original Kirby Super Star for the SNES. Players will embark on a journey through the world of Kirby, where they will battle various enemies and bosses, as well as use Kirby’s abilities to defeat them and acquire new skills. The game features several modes, including The Great Cave Offensive and Gourmet Race. Kirby Super Star Ultra also includes a new gameplay mode called Meta Knightmare Ultra, in which players can play as Meta Knight and fight enemies in new levels. This is a wonderful game for all fans of the Kirby series who want to enjoy enhanced graphics and new features.
	KORG DS-10 Synthesizer / KORG DS-10 PLUS: KORG DS-10 is a synthesizer software for creating electronic music on the Nintendo DS. With DS-10, you can create your own sounds, use built-in effects, and compose music using two analog synthesizers and a drum machine. KORG DS-10 PLUS expands the capabilities of the original version with new sounds and improved features. DS-10 PLUS adds two new synthesizers, allowing for even more diverse sound creation. DS-10 PLUS also has the ability to record and save your music to the Nintendo DS’s SD card. Both versions of DS-10 offer extensive creative possibilities and are an excellent choice for aspiring musicians and electronic music enthusiasts.
	The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass: This is a game for the Nintendo DS platform that continues the story of Link and Zelda. Players must find and rescue Princess Tetra, who has been kidnapped by a villain named the White King. To do this, Link must explore various islands, battle enemies, and solve puzzles. A key feature of the game is the use of the Nintendo DS’s touchscreen and microphone to solve certain puzzles and engage in boss battles. The game received high praise for its gameplay mechanics and storyline, as well as for utilizing the features of the Nintendo DS platform.
	The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks: This is a game in which the main character, Link, once again saves Princess Zelda and the kingdom of Hyrule from the clutches of the evil ruler Moldorm. However, this time he is not only aided by his sword but also by a steam train! To navigate the world, Link and Princess Zelda travel on the train, overcoming obstacles and battling enemies. However, to operate the train, they need magical abilities that help not only in controlling the train but also in solving puzzles on their way to saving the kingdom. Players must help Link and Princess Zelda restore the spiritual paths and battle Moldorm in the final confrontation to bring peace back to Hyrule.
	Lunar Knights: In this game, you play as two characters, each with their own unique abilities. One specializes in using weapons, while the other focuses on magic. The gameplay consists of battling enemies, collecting items, and completing various quests. The game also features a crafting element that allows players to create new weapons and items. Lunar Knights has vibrant and colorful graphics, as well as an engaging soundtrack. If you’re looking for a game with interesting gameplay and plenty of options, Lunar Knights could be an excellent choice.
	Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story: This is a game for the Nintendo DS in which you control Mario and Luigi, as well as the villain Bowser. Players venture inside Bowser’s body to help him defeat a new enemy. They must solve puzzles, battle enemies, and manage the characters to progress in the game. One of the features of the game is that players can control two characters simultaneously, using different buttons on the Nintendo DS console. Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story is a fun and engaging game that will delight all fans of the Mario series.
	Mario & Luigi: Partners in Time: This is a game in which Mario and Luigi team up with their younger versions to rescue Princess Peach from alien invaders. Players embark on a time-traveling journey to traverse various eras and battle enemies in turn-based combat. The game was developed by AlphaDream and released for the Nintendo DS in 2005. It features interesting puzzles and challenges that players must solve to progress further in the game.
	Mario Kart DS: This is an exciting racing game developed by Nintendo. Players can choose from a variety of characters from the Mario universe and use different vehicles to compete in thrilling races on various tracks. The game features several modes, including single-player, multiplayer via Wi-Fi, and bonus modes like Battle Arena. Each mode offers a unique gameplay experience, allowing players to enjoy the game at any time. Additionally, Mario Kart DS includes various items and weapons that can be used during races to overcome obstacles and increase the chances of victory. The game also supports dual-screen play and boasts high levels of detail and graphics, making it one of the best racing games on the Nintendo DS.
	Metroid Prime: Hunters: This is a game for the Nintendo DS that continues the story of the famous Metroid series. In this game, Samus Aran embarks on a quest for a legendary power source that could help her confront new threats to the galaxy. Along the way, Samus encounters other hunters for power, each possessing unique abilities and weapons. Players must use all their skills and tools to defeat their rivals and claim the power source. The game offers an engaging storyline, thrilling battles, and captivating gameplay.
	New Super Mario Bros.: This is a classic adventure game featuring Mario, released for the Nintendo DS. Players will navigate through numerous levels, battle enemies, and collect coins. The game introduces new features, such as the ability to become giant Mario or use miniature mushrooms to shrink in size and pass through narrow passages. Additionally, players can compete for the highest score while playing together on the same screen. New Super Mario Bros. offers excellent gameplay and will leave fond memories for all fans of the Mario series.
	Nintendogs: This is a series of games where you raise and train virtual puppies. Choose your favorite puppy from several breeds, then care for, play with, and train it using the touchscreen of your Nintendo DS. The game utilizes various Nintendo DS features, such as the microphone and the ability to communicate with other players via Wi-Fi. You can participate in competitions and win rewards to buy new accessories for your pet. Nintendogs is the perfect game for anyone who wants to have their own virtual pet but cannot or does not want to have a real animal.
	Okamiden: This is the sequel to the cult game Okami. The events take place several years after the first installment, with the main character being the son of the divine wolf Amaterasu—a puppy named Chibiterasu. He embarks on a journey to save the world from a new threat, utilizing his abilities and the help of various allies. Players must explore different landscapes, battle enemies, solve puzzles, and restore order to the world. The game features new abilities, such as drawing on the DS screen and using the microphone. Okamiden retains the unique visual art style of the first game, which includes vibrant colors and elements of Japanese culture.
	Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney: This is a quest game where players take on the role of defense attorney Phoenix Wright, who defends his clients against criminal charges in court. The game consists of a series of cases, each containing pieces of evidence and witnesses that players must interact with to prove their client’s innocence. Players must also question witnesses and refute the opposing evidence during cross-examination. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney also features an intriguing plot and numerous unexpected twists that add an extra layer of excitement to the game.
	Picross DS / Picross 3D: These are puzzle games for the Nintendo DS that allow players to showcase their talents in solving complex tasks. Picross DS invites players to fill in a grid with numbers, deciphering them into corresponding pictures. Meanwhile, Picross 3Dprovides the opportunity to create three-dimensional figures by removing blocks from cubes. Both games feature various difficulty levels, from simple puzzles for beginners to real brainteasers for professionals. These games are engaging and offer a sense of satisfaction when solving challenging tasks.
	Pokemon White / Pokemon SoulSilver / Pokemon Heart Gold / Pokemon Black Version, …: This is a series of games that began in 1996. Over the years, it has remained one of the most popular game series on the market. Among the games for the Nintendo DS, several significant titles stand out. One of them is Pokemon Diamond/Pearl. These were the first games in the series released on the Nintendo DS, offering new Pokémon, more engaging battles, and a variety of additional features. Later, Pokemon Platinum was released, an enhanced version of Diamond/Pearl, along with Pokemon HeartGold/SoulSilver, which are remakes of games for the Game Boy Advance. In the late 2010s, Pokemon Black/White and their sequels Black 2/White 2 were released. These games introduced new Pokémon, gameplay changes, and intriguing plot twists.
	Professor Layton and the Unwound Future: This is a puzzle game for the Nintendo DS. The main character, Professor Layton, and his young assistant Luke travel to a futuristic London, where they encounter mysterious incidents and puzzles. As they progress through the story, the professor and Luke learn about strange time loops and secret organizations involved in these events. Players must solve a variety of puzzles and challenges to help the professor and Luke uncover all the mysteries of future London and save it from danger. The game is part of the Professor Layton series and continues the traditions of the previous entries, offering an engaging storyline, original puzzles, and beautiful graphics.
	Professor Layton and the Curious Village: This is a game where you play as Professor Layton and his young assistant Luke, who arrive in the mysterious village of Saint Mystere. They come to uncover the mystery surrounding the inheritance of a wealthy baron who recently passed away and to find the Golden Butterfly—the key to the village’s mystery. Players will explore the village, talk to the locals, solve puzzles, and gather clues to unravel the mystery of the village. They will also encounter various enigmas and puzzles along the way. The game features a unique atmosphere and an engaging storyline, as well as well-developed characters and puzzles. This is an excellent game for puzzle and adventure game enthusiasts who want to immerse themselves in a world of riddles and mysteries.
	Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box: This is a puzzle game developed by Level-5 for the Nintendo DS. The main character, Professor Hershel Layton, and his young assistant Luke Triton embark on a journey aboard the Molcar train, but their plans are interrupted when they discover that the box they are transporting has been stolen. During the journey, the professor and Luke solve various puzzles and tasks to uncover the mystery of the stolen box and find its missing owner. Throughout their adventures, they encounter many interesting characters and face numerous dangers. Players must solve challenging puzzles and riddles to help Professor Layton and Luke achieve their goal and retrieve the stolen item.
	Professor Layton and the Last Specter: This is the fourth installment in the popular game series about the archaeology professor and his young assistant. The main character and his friend Luke travel to the village of Mysteri to unravel the mystery of the ghostly giant that appears in the town every night, causing destruction. Throughout their journey, they will explore various locations, solve complex puzzles, and uncover the secrets of the town’s past. Players will also meet new characters who will assist them in their adventures. The Last Specter will delight fans of the series not only with its engaging storyline but also with improved gameplay, new mini-games, and the ability to create their own puzzles.
	Radiant Historia: This is a role-playing game in which the main character, Hain, must save his world from destruction. The game features multiple parallel timelines that overlap and interact with each other. To progress through the story, players must travel between different eras and make decisions that affect the game’s ultimate outcome. Additionally, players can improve their skills, battle enemies, and collect various items. With the special ability called “Blessing of History,” players can return to previous moments in the game to change the course of events. The game offers an engaging storyline, beautiful graphic effects, and unique gameplay mechanics that will captivate any RPG fan.
	Shin Megami Tense: Devil Survivor: This is a JRPG released on the Nintendo DS. Players must confront a wave of demonic attacks that have struck Tokyo. They can recruit demons to assist them in battles and explore the city to find a way out of the situation. Players also need to make decisions that influence the outcome of the game. The game is divided into several days, with each day presenting its own set of events and battles. Players can choose their path, leading to different endings. The game features numerous endings, each dependent on the player’s decisions.
	Super Mario 64 DS: This is a remake of the classic game Super Mario 64 for the Nintendo DS. Players can choose one of four characters—Mario, Luigi, Wario, and Yoshi—and embark on an adventure in Princess Peach’s Castle. The game features numerous levels, each filled with puzzles and obstacles to overcome. Additionally, there are mini-games that can be unlocked and played with friends in multiplayer mode. The game also supports the touchscreen and microphone, adding new possibilities for gameplay. Overall, Super Mario 64 DS offers an engaging journey into the world of Mario that is sure to delight both fans of the series and newcomers..
	Tetris DS: This is a puzzle game created for the Nintendo DS portable console. Players must solve tasks quickly and logically by forming shapes from falling blocks. The game features various modes, including ‘Marathon,’ ‘Challenges,’ ‘Multiplayer,’ and more. Each mode has its own unique rules and tasks, so players won’t get bored. The graphics in the game are bright and colorful (with elements from classic Nintendo games displayed in the background), and the soundtrack is uplifting. Tetris DS is a great way to spend time and exercise your brain.
	The World Ends With You: This is a unique RPG from Square Enix that turned out to be one of the best games on the Nintendo DS. Players control Neku Sakuraba, a teenager who finds himself in the mysterious world of Shibuya after his death. To survive, he must fight in the Reapers’ Game, survival battles against other souls. Neku also needs to explore Shibuya, solving puzzles and completing quests to uncover the mysteries of this world and understand why he ended up here. The game features many interesting characters and music that make it even more appealing. The World Ends With You is an unusual and captivating game that every RPG fan should try.
	WarioWare D.I.Y.: This is a game for the Nintendo DS that allows players to create their own mini-games and microgames using a game editor. The game offers various tools and game elements that can be used to create custom levels and challenges. Players can design levels, draw characters, set game rules, add music and sounds, and test their games on the Nintendo DS. The game also features several gameplay modes, including Hometown Tour, where players can explore the game world, and Microgame Maker, where they can create microgames. WarioWare D.I.Y allows players to express their creative side and share their games with other Nintendo DS users.
	WarioWare: Touched!: This is a game developed for the Nintendo DS handheld console. In it, players must complete a series of short and quick mini-games, each controlled by tapping or moving the stylus. The game features over 200 mini-games, each lasting only a few seconds. The objective is to earn as many points as possible and unlock all the mini-games. The graphics are bright and colorful, and the sound design is fun and memorable. The game is suitable for playing anywhere and anytime due to its simplicity and brevity. WarioWare: Touched! is a great game for anyone looking for fast and entertaining fun.