Top 10 DS Games

Top 10 DS Games That Still Hold Up

The Nintendo DS, with its innovative dual-screen design and touch controls, hosted some of the most creative and engaging games of its generation. Even years after its release, many of these titles remain incredibly playable and enjoyable. Here's our list of the top 10 DS games that have stood the test of time.

1. Pokémon HeartGold/SoulSilver

These remakes of the second-generation Pokémon games are widely considered the pinnacle of Pokémon gaming. With beautiful sprite work, an engaging story, and the ability to have your Pokémon follow you around, these games remain the gold standard for Pokémon adventures.

2. The World Ends With You

Square Enix's urban RPG set in Shibuya, Tokyo, featured a unique combat system that fully utilized the DS's touch controls. Its stylish art, incredible soundtrack, and compelling story make it a standout title that feels fresh even today.

3. Chrono Trigger DS

This port of the SNES classic added new dungeons and features while preserving everything that made the original great. The timeless story of Crono and his friends traveling through time to save the world remains as engaging as ever.

4. Mario Kart DS

With tight controls, excellent track design, and the introduction of online play to the series, Mario Kart DS remains one of the best entries in the franchise. The snaking technique may be controversial, but the core gameplay is undeniably fun.

5. Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow

Continuing the "Metroidvania" style established in Symphony of the Night, Dawn of Sorrow features excellent level design, a satisfying soul collection system, and some of the best pixel art on the system.

6. Professor Layton and the Unwound Future

The third entry in the Professor Layton series features the most emotional story and some of the best puzzles. The charming art style and excellent voice acting help create an immersive mystery that's still worth solving.

7. Advance Wars: Dual Strike

This turn-based strategy game offers deep tactical gameplay that remains challenging and rewarding. With multiple campaigns and a robust map editor, it offers nearly endless strategic possibilities.

8. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy

The courtroom drama and investigation gameplay of Phoenix Wright created a new genre of visual novels. The memorable characters, dramatic twists, and satisfying "Objection!" moments are as entertaining now as they were upon release.

9. New Super Mario Bros.

Revitalizing the 2D Mario formula, this game brought the classic platforming experience to a new generation. Its precise controls and clever level design showcase why Mario remains the king of platformers.

10. Dragon Quest IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies

This ambitious RPG offered a customizable party, a massive world to explore, and hundreds of quests to complete. Its blend of traditional JRPG elements with more modern sensibilities makes it accessible and deep at the same time.

These games demonstrate why the Nintendo DS was such a beloved platform and why its library continues to be celebrated by gamers worldwide.