Ranking The 25 Best Nintendo DS Games Ever Made
The Nintendo DS, launched in 2004, revolutionized handheld gaming with its innovative dual-screen design and touchscreen controls, offering a diverse library of over 2000 games. Here, we delve into the top 25 Nintendo DS games, highlighting their unique features, gameplay mechanics, and why they stand out in the DS's impressive catalog.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks
Publisher: Nintendo | Developer: Nintendo
Release Date: December 7, 2009
Spirit Tracks is often cited as one of the best Zelda games on the DS. It builds upon the touch controls introduced in Phantom Hourglass, fixing previous issues and adding new mechanics like train travel across Hyrule. The game features Princess Zelda in a ghostly form, allowing her to possess and control various enemies, adding a fresh twist to the series.
2. Tetris DS
Publisher: Nintendo | Developer: Nintendo
Release Date: March 20, 2006
Tetris DS is a standout title that leverages the DS's touchscreen capabilities. It includes fresh touch-based modes, remixed classic gameplay, and a nostalgic presentation with vintage Nintendo sprites and theme songs. This version is considered one of the best editions of Tetris ever made.
3. Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow
Publisher: Konami | Developer: Konami
Release Date: October 4, 2005
Dawn of Sorrow is a Metroidvania classic that utilizes the DS's touchscreen for its Magic Seal system, allowing players to defeat bosses by drawing seals. It features the Tactical Soul system from Aria of Sorrow and boasts enhanced graphics and atmospheric locations.
4. Super Scribblenauts
Publisher: Warner Bros. Interactive | Developer: 5th Cell Media
Release Date: October 12, 2010
Super Scribblenauts is a game that lets players summon anything they can imagine. It fixed the control issues of the first game and added adjectives, making gameplay even more creative and engaging. This title won the Best of Show award at E3 2009, a rare feat for a DS game.
5. Professor Layton and the Unwound Future
Publisher: Level-5 | Developer: Level-5
Release Date: September 29, 2008
This puzzle game is part of the popular Professor Layton series and features over 160 diverse puzzles. The game's cleverness and generous hint system make it accessible and enjoyable for players of all skill levels.
6. Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective
Publisher: Capcom | Developer: Capcom
Release Date: June 19, 2010
Ghost Trick is an adventure game where the protagonist, Sissel, is an amnesia-stricken spirit who must solve mysteries by possessing and manipulating objects in both the Ghost World and the real world. The game's unique mechanics and engaging story make it a standout title.
7. Animal Crossing: Wild World
Publisher: Nintendo | Developer: Nintendo
Release Date: December 5, 2005
Animal Crossing: Wild World brings the beloved life simulation series to the DS, allowing players to build and customize their own virtual village. The game's real-time clock and calendar add to its immersive experience, making it a favorite among DS owners.
8. Mario Kart DS
Publisher: Nintendo | Developer: Nintendo
Release Date: November 14, 2005
Mario Kart DS is the first Mario Kart game to feature online multiplayer, allowing players to compete against others worldwide. The game includes iconic tracks and characters, making it a must-have for any Mario Kart fan.
9. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney
Publisher: Capcom | Developer: Capcom
Release Date: October 12, 2005
Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney is a visual novel-style game that utilizes the DS's touchscreen for investigative and courtroom sequences. The series is known for its engaging storylines and memorable characters, making it a favorite among DS gamers.
10. Advance Wars: Dual Strike
Publisher: Nintendo | Developer: Intelligent Systems
Release Date: June 23, 2005
Advance Wars: Dual Strike is a turn-based strategy game that takes full advantage of the DS's dual screens. It features a robust single-player campaign and multiplayer modes, making it a great choice for strategy fans.
Honorable Mentions
- Kirby: Canvas Curse – A platformer that utilizes the stylus for drawing platforms to guide Kirby through levels.
- Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days – A JRPG that fits well within the Kingdom Hearts series, offering unique gameplay mechanics on the DS.
- Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver – Enhanced remakes of the classic Pokémon Gold and Silver, offering a rich Pokémon experience on the DS.
Why These Games Stand Out
Each of these games leverages the unique features of the Nintendo DS in innovative ways:
- Touchscreen Mechanics: Games like Tetris DS, Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow, and Kirby: Canvas Curse showcase how the touchscreen can enhance gameplay.
- Dual-Screen Utilization: Titles such as Advance Wars: Dual Strike and Professor Layton and the Unwound Future demonstrate how the dual screens can provide a richer gaming experience.
- Creative Storytelling: Games like Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective and Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney use the DS's capabilities to deliver engaging narratives and interactive storytelling.
- Online Features: Mario Kart DS was a pioneer in online multiplayer on the DS, setting a new standard for handheld gaming.
Conclusion
The Nintendo DS's library is a testament to the console's versatility and innovation. These top 25 games represent the best of what the DS had to offer, from creative puzzle-solving to immersive storytelling and innovative gameplay mechanics. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or revisiting the DS for nostalgic reasons, these titles are sure to provide hours of entertainment and showcase why the Nintendo DS remains one of the best handheld consoles ever made.