The Nintendo DS was more than a handheld console, it was a revolution. Released in 2004, it fused two screens, a touch interface, a built-in microphone and a library that mixed fresh ideas with sheer, addictive fun. If you were into epic RPGs, quirky puzzlers, or even delightful life sims, the DS had you covered. Whether you missed out, or just want to experience the golden age of handheld gaming, here are the best DS games you absolutely must play before you die.
The World Ends With You
Let’s start with a gem. The World Ends With You was an action-RPG from Square Enix that rewrote all the rules. Set in a stylized version of Shibuya, Tokyo, the game has a dual-screen battle system that requires you to control two characters simultaneously: one with buttons, one with the stylus. That sounds chaotic, but it’s immensely satisfying once you learn the ropes. Top that off with a killer soundtrack and a deep, emotional story, and you’ve got an must-play masterpiece.
Pokémon HeartGold and Soul Silver
Nonetheless while the original Gold and Silver games were excellent, HeartGold and SoulSilver refined the formula. But then the brilliant DS remakes breathed life into Johto and Kanto, the juicy graphics, modern mechanics, and quality-of-life improvements made these the Pokémon experience. The included Pokéwalker — a pedometer that let you level up your Pokémon in the real world — was just the cherry on top.
Mario Kart DS
Mario Kart DS was one of the first Nintendo titles to get online multiplayer working on a handheld before it became standard, and it worked a treat. The game featured retro tracks, snaking for those who’d developed the technique, and a mission mode that gave something to do beyond racing. This entry is still considered one of the most beloved in the series, and demonstrates quite literally on the go, how the DS could offer console-quality fun.
Animal Crossing: Wild World
Prior to New Horizons taking the world by storm, Animal Crossing: Wild World first brought the series to the portable space. It had everything you could ask for — fishing and bug catching and furniture collecting and friendly villagers who felt like friends. Its a real-time clock and chill vibes made it a ritual for many. Building your town a day at a time is one of the most wholesome things you can do, even if Tom Nook still asks for an obscene amount of Bells.
Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney
“OBJECTION!” If you’ve ever shouted that in a crowded room, chances are you have played Ace Attorney. The DS remade the original Game Boy Advance visual novel, giving it a touchscreen controls and voice clips. You investigate crimes and cross-examine witnesses, and shout your way through courtroom drama, as rookie lawyer Phoenix Wright in what is one of the most memorable narrative games on the system.
Professor Layton and the Curious Village
Part mystery novel, part brain teaser, Professor Layton and the Curious Village elevated storytelling and solving puzzles to another level. My time with the game almost entirely consisted of playing as the titular professor and his apprentice Luke, from hopping around a quirky town to solve secrets and riddles. It’s beautifully animated, cleverly written and rewarding for anyone who enjoys a good work-out for the mind.
Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow
The DS was the site of three phenomenal Castlevania games, and Dawn of Sorrow is arguably the best of the bunch. It’s a classic Metroidvania experience — slick controls, extensive exploration, impactful upgrades, and plenty of secrets. It designed the touch screen cleverly to perform seals for its boss fights and had a stand-out gothic art direction. This is a must have for fans of action-platformers.
New Super Mario Bros.
Nintendo’s return to the 2D Mario formula was a hit. New Super Mario Bros. felt both new and familiar, combining classic side-scrolling play with new moves, colorful graphics and clever level design. It launched an entire sub-series of Mario games and showed that the mustachioed plumber still had plenty of side-scrolling magic in him.
Chrono Trigger (DS Version)
Chrono Trigger was originally released on the SNES and is often regarded as one of the best RPGs of all time. The DS port is the ideal way to experience this legendary adventure if, somehow, you haven’t played Chrono Trigger.
Honorable Mentions
When the DS library was so chock full with greatness, it’s a little unjust to settle for 10. And here are a few more that deserve some love:
Advance Wars: Dual Strike
A deeply addictive turn-based tactics game.
Metroid Prime: Hunters
Who wouldn’t have wanted first person shooting on the DS? Surprisingly good.
Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective
A stylish puzzle-adventure with an unforgettable story.
Kirby: Canvas Curse
One of the early DS games to make best use of the touchscreen.
Dragon Quest IX
A huge RPG that really pushed the DS.
Final Thoughts
The Nintendo DS wasn’t merely a console — it was a phenomenon. Its combination of innovation, portability, and creativity delivered some of the most unforgettable games of the 2000s. Whether you’re returning to these time-honored classics, or nose diving into their pixelated worlds for the very first time, these are the must-have DS games that deserve a cemented place on your “play-before-you-die” list.
