Originally released in 2004 (with regards to the original Nintendo DS) and succeeded by the DS Lite model in 2006 and new DSi model in 2009, the Nintendo Dual Screen handheld console has by and large been a tour-de-force both with regards to market share as well as in terms of the size of the library.
Over 600 Games, Family-Friendly Entertainment
The Nintendo DS boasts a staggeringly large library of hundreds of titles. The variety of genres present on the DS is also quite impressive, ranging from children’s games such as the popular Imagine series to Mature-rated horror games and shooters such as Dementium : The Ward or even Call of Duty.
First-party titles, as always, are a huge standout with regards to the software library of the Nintendo DS. Animal Crossing, Mario Party, Mario Kart, Super Mario 64 DS, Super Princess Peach, New Super Mario Bros., Metroid Prime Hunters, Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass, and Yoshi Touch & Go are all very popular first-party titles that are very popular amongst children, teens, and adults alike.
The Difference Between the DS, DS Lite, and DSi Models
The original Nintendo DS is a much larger model than those that would follow it, and suffers from a somewhat shorter battery life than those models as well. It is however a very inexpensive option for those looking to test the waters with regards to the DS software library.
The DS Lite is the most common model on store shelves currently, and features a slimmer design and upgraded screen and directional pad (D-Pad). The DS lite features an LCD screen that can be set to four different light levels. The Nintendo DS Lite is also very popular for it’s attractive price point, both new and used, and the retention of the coveted GBA slot.
The DSi is the most recent addition to the Nintendo DS family, featuring a slew of new features such as a larger screen, even slimmer design, and two built-in cameras that shoot at 0.3 megapixels (VGA). The Nintendo DSi has removed the GBA slot in exchange for a SD card slot for expandable memory capability, and also has the ability to download software from the DSi Shop Channel.
Great Games for the Nintendo DS / DSi
Aside from the aforementioned first-party titles and bk8 casino, several other game franchises have been extremely successful amongst both fans and critics on the Nintendo DS.
Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney is an anime-inspired series that originated on the Game Boy Advance and found it’s way onto the DS. Featuring titular defense attorney Phoenix Wright, the player must investigate murders, cross-examine witnesses delivering testimony, and present logic and evidence in order to shake the truth loose in extremely tense courtroom scenes. An intelligent and original franchise, Ace Attorney has also spawned a few new titles such as Apollo Justice (Phoenix Wright’s apprentice) and upcoming Miles Edgeworth: Investigations.
Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir is probably the most obvious choice, although I Spy Fun House and Dream Day Wedding Destination are also strong titles in the object fidn genre, popularized by Big Fish Games. For those seeking to add a flavour of mystery to their object find experience, Hotel Dusk: Room 215 is another critically acclaimed interactive mystery game that has done very well.
The Nintendo DS offers a solid lineup of software titles for people from all walks of life; children, teens, adults, and seniors. Whether the basic model suits your needs for an inexpensive gaming console or the DSi strikes your fancy with all of the added features and larger screen – the majority of Nintendo DS games will play on any model and provide hours of fun and excitement!
Great Video Games for Kids on the Nintendo DS
While the Christmas season is often the first time many parents think about purchasing new games for their children’s consoles, both portable and not-so-portable, it is hardly the only time that game sales are chugging along.
Seemingly uninhibited by contemporary economic woes, the video game market is as robust as ever as people continue to play their favorites. Purchasing games for children can be excessively difficult as there are so many to choose from. Here are some of the best offerings for the Nintendo DS.
Cooking Mama / Cooking Mama 2: Dinner With Friends
The Cooking Mama games feature a very lovable and anime-inspired “Mama” who guides you through the preparation and serving of dozens of colorful and fun recipes. Utilizing the touch screen function of the DS, kids can shuck corn niblets, slice carrots, fry onions, and even decorate their finished cakes!
A very simple game to play, Cooking Mama is interesting for both young and old alike with it’s bright, vibrant graphics and relatively easy learning curve.
In the second Cooking Mama game, Dinner With Friends, you are faced with even more recipes – this time also being challenged to suit the tastes of your dinner guests who will rate your meals according to your preparation! Multiplayer can be a real blast in these titles and they are surprisingly addictive.
Drawn to Life / Drawn to Life: Spongebob Squarepants
The Drawn to Life series allows the player to draw, color, and stylize their own characters in the game, as well as many enemies and objects. Not only is this a supremely creative platform adventure style game in the vein of the Mario franchise – the game is superbly executed and has drawn great reviews from nearly all critics and players alike. The controls are relatively simple, and the hit detection is much better than expected from a game where you can sketch your own protagonist and antagonists.
The most recent installation in the Drawn to Life catalogue has been the addition of a licensed Spongebob Squarepants game in the same vein. Kids can draw their weapons, vehicles, and platforms as they could in the first installation only this time – it’s SpongeBob to the rescue!
Nintendogs : Labrador, Chihuaha, Dalmation, & Dachshund
A charming first-party series of games, Nintendogs are virtual pets that you can interact with in various ways – using your stylus to rub them or pet them and make sure they get exercise and plenty of play. Each of the installments of Nintendogs features around six or seven breeds besides the titular purebred – allowing for variety and a little more fun when it comes to understanding their personalities and habits.
Beyond these games which are targeted towards a younger audience, there are plenty of constructive and creative games for all ages on the Nintendo DS.