The Nintendo DS, or dual-screen console, was one of the most revolutionary consoles of its time and it brought forth a world of entertaining and immersive games. From the classic titles to the more modern releases, the Nintendo DS brought a library of great games that adults and kids alike were able to satisfy their gaming desires with. As such, here are some of the best Nintendo DS video games that you must check out.
Mario Series
It’s no surprise that the Mario series had some of the best offerings for the Nintendo DS. Though many are familiar with the classic Super Mario Bros, there were several games across the series that also rocked the Nintendo DS. Let’s take a look at some of the most beloved entries from the franchise:
• New Super Mario Bros: This classic 2D entry was the first Mario game to be released for the Nintendo DS that truly showed off the power and the potential of the system. With its vibrant visuals, interesting level design, and great control scheme, New Super Mario Bros was a must-have title.
• Super Mario 64 DS: One of the most beloved games ever released on the Nintendo DS was this enhanced port of the classic Super Mario 64. Not only did it come with updated visuals, but it also had four-player support, brand-new levels, and lots of mini-games that anyone can enjoy.
• Mario Kart DS: Who doesn’t love a classic game of Mario Kart? Well, with Mario Kart DS, players were able to experience an amazing game of kart racing with their friends and family. Not only that, but it also boasted some of the best visuals on the console and it even had an online mode that allowed players to compete from across the world.
Pokémon Series
For Pokémon fans, the Nintendo DS had plenty to offer with its wide selection of games. From the classic RPG titles to some great spin-offs, here are just some of the best Pokémon games for the Nintendo DS:
• Pokémon Diamond/Pearl: This was the first full-fledged Pokémon games to be released on the DS and it saw many improvements over its predecessors. Not only did it have some improved visuals, but it also saw an array of new Pokémon, brand-new locations, and an improved battle system that further fleshed out the core mechanics.
• Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Darkness/Time: A spin-off of the traditional RPGs, Mystery Dungeon was a roguelike game that saw players take control of a Pokémon and make their way through procedurally generated dungeons. Though the game was tough and unforgiving, it was quite rewarding and fun at the same time.
• Pokémon Black/White: This was the first main-series entry to be released for Nintendo DS. Not only did it come with plenty of improvements to its visuals, but it also boasted an overhauled combat system and plenty of new Pokémon to catch and train.
The Legend of Zelda Series
The Legend of Zelda series also had some of its best installments released on the Nintendo DS. It may have not seen as big of a success as other franchises, but the entries on the DS were actually quite good. So without further ado, here are some of the best Legend of Zelda games on the DS:
• Phantom Hourglass: One of the more beloved Zelda games, Phantom Hourglass was the first game to use the DS’s touchscreen compatibility. Intuitive controls, beautiful graphics, and fun puzzles were the highlights of this great game.
• Spirit Tracks: The sequel to Phantom Hourglass, this game saw Link embarking on a grand journey on a steam train and making new friends along the way. Not only that, but it also saw a great soundtrack, challenging puzzles, and fantastic visuals for a Zelda game.
• The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D: This was a remake of the N64 classic, but with a few improvements that made it better than ever. Not only did it have a cleaner presentation, better visuals, and some extra dungeons, but it also boasted intuitive touch controls that made the game quite enjoyable.
Other Great Titles
Aside from the above mentioned titles, there were also plenty of other great titles that were must-plays on the Nintendo DS. Here are just some of them:
• Kirby: Canvas Curse: One of the most iconic and beloved entries in the Kirby series, Kirby: Canvas Curse saw Kirby using the touch-screen controls to maneuver through levels and tackle enemies in delightful ways.
• New Super Mario Bros Wii: As one of the most beloved games released for the Wii, New Super Mario Bros Wii was also ported to the Nintendo DS for players to enjoy. With its quirky levels, interesting boss fights, and plenty of secrets, this was a must-play for the Nintendo DS.
• Professor Layton and the Curious Village: As one of the first games in the Layton series, the Curious Village boasted some of the most satisfying puzzles to come out of the series. With over 140 puzzles, an amazing story to tie it all together, and delightful characters, this was one of the DS’s best offerings.
From Mario to Pokémon and even The Legend of Zelda, the Nintendo DS had plenty of great games to offer. These titles possess unique features, interesting stories, and stunning visuals that all make them worthy of recognition. Now if you’re a fan of the Nintendo DS, then you’ll definitely want to check out some of these great titles.
