Amazing Ds Games delivered a unique and personal handheld experience, thanks to the innovative dual-screen console. If you’re experiencing issues with your Polar device while reminiscing about these classics, polarservicecenter.net offers comprehensive support and troubleshooting assistance to ensure your fitness journey remains uninterrupted. Discover guides, warranty details, and expert support, enhanced by seamless device connectivity and optimal feature utilization, all designed to elevate your Polar experience.
1. What Makes a DS Game “Amazing”?
Amazing DS games stand out due to their innovative use of the dual-screen and stylus, offering unique gameplay experiences. These games often feature creative storytelling, engaging characters, and inventive mechanics that are exclusive to the Nintendo DS platform. According to Nintendo, the DS was designed to appeal to both core gamers and a broader audience, leading to a diverse library of titles that pushed the boundaries of handheld gaming. The best DS games leverage the touch screen for puzzles, combat, and exploration, creating a tactile and immersive experience that set them apart from other consoles. The success of the DS, with over 154 million units sold worldwide, is a testament to the appeal of these innovative gameplay mechanics and the quality of its game library.
1.1. Innovative Use of Dual Screen and Stylus
The dual screen and stylus combination allowed for gameplay mechanics that were previously impossible. The bottom screen, which is a touch screen, was used in novel ways, such as drawing paths for characters, solving puzzles, or controlling the action in real-time strategy games. Games like “The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass” utilized the touch screen for sailing and combat, while “Trauma Center: Under the Knife” transformed the stylus into surgical instruments.
1.2. Unique Gameplay Experiences
Many amazing DS games offered experiences that were not available on other platforms. “WarioWare Touched!” featured rapid-fire mini-games that required quick reflexes and creative use of the stylus. “Hotel Dusk: Room 215” was played like a virtual book, with the DS held vertically and the stylus used to explore the environment and interact with characters. These unique gameplay experiences helped to define the DS as a platform for innovation and experimentation.
1.3. Creative Storytelling and Engaging Characters
Amazing DS games often featured well-written stories and memorable characters that resonated with players. “Nine Hours, Nine Persons, Nine Doors” told a gripping mystery story with multiple endings, while “Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective” featured a unique premise and a cast of quirky characters. These games demonstrated that handheld games could offer complex and engaging narratives.
2. Top 5 Amazing DS Games You Should Play
If you’re seeking the very best gaming experiences the system has to offer, here are five amazing DS games that stand out for their innovation, gameplay, and lasting appeal:
| Game | Genre | Why It’s Amazing |
|---|---|---|
| Mario Kart DS | Racing | Introduced online multiplayer to the series, offering endless replayability and competitive fun. |
| Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars | Action-Adventure | A full-fledged GTA experience on a handheld, with innovative touch controls and a compelling story. |
| Osu! Tatakae! Ouendan | Rhythm | Unique rhythm-action gameplay using the stylus to cheer on characters, with a catchy soundtrack. |
| Advance Wars: Dual Strike | Strategy | Expanded on the series with dual COs and battles across both screens, adding depth to the strategic gameplay. |
| Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story | RPG | Hilarious adventure with innovative combat mechanics, playing as both Mario & Luigi and Bowser. |
2.1. Mario Kart DS
Mario jumping into a race car during one of the best DS games, Mario Kart DS.
Mario Kart DS is amazing because it brought the beloved racing series to the handheld world with incredible success. It introduced online multiplayer, a first for the series, allowing players to compete against others worldwide. This feature alone added immense replayability and helped to solidify the game as a must-have title for the DS. According to Nintendo, the game sold over 23 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling DS games of all time. The game also featured classic tracks from previous Mario Kart games, as well as new courses and characters, providing a nostalgic yet fresh experience.
2.1.1. First Online Multiplayer in the Series
The introduction of online multiplayer was a game-changer for the Mario Kart series. Players could now race against friends and strangers from around the world, adding a competitive edge that was previously unavailable. This feature helped to extend the lifespan of the game and kept players coming back for more.
2.1.2. Classic Tracks and New Courses
Mario Kart DS featured a mix of classic tracks from previous games and new courses designed specifically for the DS. This combination of old and new appealed to both long-time fans and newcomers to the series. The new courses made use of the DS’s unique features, such as the dual screen and touch screen, to create innovative gameplay experiences.
2.2. Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars
Huang Lee holding a gun during one of the best DS games, Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars.
Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars is an amazing DS game because it managed to bring the full GTA experience to a handheld console. Rockstar Games innovatively utilized the DS’s touch screen for various gameplay mechanics, such as hot-wiring cars and dealing drugs. The game’s top-down perspective and stylized graphics were a departure from previous GTA games, but they worked perfectly on the DS. According to Rockstar Games, Chinatown Wars was designed to take advantage of the DS’s unique features and offer a distinct GTA experience. The game’s storyline was also praised for its depth and complexity, making it a standout title in the GTA series.
2.2.1. Full GTA Experience on a Handheld
Chinatown Wars offered a complete GTA experience on the DS, with a large open world to explore, a compelling story to follow, and a variety of missions to complete. The game’s scale and ambition were impressive for a handheld title.
2.2.2. Innovative Touch Controls
The game made excellent use of the DS’s touch screen for various gameplay mechanics, such as hot-wiring cars, assembling weapons, and dealing drugs. These touch controls added a new layer of interactivity to the GTA experience and made the game feel unique on the DS.
2.3. Osu! Tatakae! Ouendan
Ryuuta Ippongi punching the air during one of the best DS games, Osu! Tatakae! Ouendan.
Osu! Tatakae! Ouendan is an amazing DS game because of its unique rhythm-action gameplay and its over-the-top presentation. Players use the stylus to tap, slide, and spin on the touch screen in time with the music, guiding a cheerleading squad to support people in need. The game’s Japanese soundtrack is incredibly catchy, and the stories told on the top screen are often hilarious and heartwarming. According to iNiS Corporation, the developers of the game, Ouendan was designed to be a fun and accessible rhythm game that anyone could enjoy. The game’s success led to a spiritual successor, Elite Beat Agents, which featured a similar gameplay style with a Western soundtrack.
2.3.1. Unique Rhythm-Action Gameplay
The game’s rhythm-action gameplay is unlike anything else on the DS. Players must use the stylus to follow patterns and tap different areas of the screen in time with the music, creating a unique and engaging experience.
2.3.2. Catchy Soundtrack and Engaging Stories
Ouendan’s soundtrack is full of catchy Japanese pop songs that perfectly complement the on-screen action. The stories told on the top screen are often humorous and touching, adding another layer of enjoyment to the game.
2.4. Advance Wars: Dual Strike
A screenshot of the poster for one of the best DS games, Advance Wars: Dual Strike.
Advance Wars: Dual Strike is an amazing DS game because it expanded on the already excellent Advance Wars series with new features and strategic depth. The game introduced dual COs, allowing players to bring two Commanding Officers into battle, each with their unique abilities. It also featured battles that took place across both screens of the DS, adding a new level of complexity to the gameplay. According to Intelligent Systems, the developers of the game, Dual Strike was designed to offer a more challenging and strategic experience than previous Advance Wars games. The game’s story mode was also praised for its engaging narrative and memorable characters.
2.4.1. Dual COs and New Units
The addition of dual COs and new units added a new layer of strategy to the Advance Wars formula. Players had to carefully consider which COs to bring into battle and how to utilize their unique abilities to gain an advantage.
2.4.2. Battles Across Both Screens
The battles that took place across both screens of the DS were a unique and challenging addition to the game. Players had to manage their units on both screens simultaneously, adding a new level of complexity to the gameplay.
2.5. Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story
Mario and Luigi on a cloud during one of the best DS games, Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story.
Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story is an amazing DS game because of its hilarious story, innovative combat mechanics, and charming characters. The game puts players in control of Mario and Luigi as they explore Bowser’s insides, solving puzzles and battling enemies. Bowser himself is also a playable character, adding a unique twist to the gameplay. According to AlphaDream, the developers of the game, Bowser’s Inside Story was designed to be a funny and engaging RPG that would appeal to both fans of the Mario series and newcomers to the genre. The game’s writing was praised for its humor and wit, and its combat mechanics were lauded for their depth and innovation.
2.5.1. Hilarious Story and Charming Characters
The game’s story is full of laugh-out-loud moments and memorable characters. The interactions between Mario, Luigi, and Bowser are particularly hilarious, and the game’s writing is consistently witty and engaging.
2.5.2. Innovative Combat Mechanics
The combat mechanics in Bowser’s Inside Story are innovative and engaging. Players must use timed button presses to perform special attacks and defend against enemy attacks. Bowser’s unique abilities, such as his fire breath and his ability to inhale enemies, add another layer of strategy to the combat.
3. Other Notable Amazing DS Games
While the top five amazing DS games offer a great starting point, the DS library is full of other amazing titles that are worth exploring. Here are a few more notable games that deserve recognition:
| Game | Genre | Why It’s Notable |
|---|---|---|
| The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass | Action-Adventure | Innovative use of the touch screen for sailing and combat, continuing the story of The Wind Waker. |
| Chrono Trigger | RPG | A classic JRPG with a timeless story and engaging gameplay, enhanced for the DS with new features. |
| Animal Crossing: Wild World | Simulation | Brought the charming life simulation to the handheld, with online multiplayer and endless customization options. |
| Professor Layton and the Unwound Future | Puzzle | The best game in the series to date, with over 160 puzzles and a compelling story. |
| Pokémon Black & White | RPG | Introduced new battle mechanics and a fresh storyline, pushing the boundaries of the Pokémon series. |
3.1. The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass
Link and a man holding a map during one of the best DS games, The Legend Of Zelda: The Phantom Hourglass.
The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass is a notable DS game because it innovatively used the touch screen for sailing and combat. Players controlled Link by drawing paths on the touch screen, and they used the stylus to attack enemies and solve puzzles. The game continued the story of The Wind Waker, and it featured a similar cel-shaded art style. According to Nintendo, Phantom Hourglass was designed to offer a unique Zelda experience that took advantage of the DS’s capabilities. The game’s dungeons were also praised for their clever design and challenging puzzles.
3.2. Chrono Trigger
A party travelling the map during one of the best DS games, Chrono Trigger.
Chrono Trigger is a notable DS game because it brought a classic JRPG to a new audience with enhanced features. The DS version of Chrono Trigger included all of the content from the original SNES game, as well as new dungeons, items, and a multiplayer mode. The game’s timeless story, engaging gameplay, and memorable characters made it a must-have title for RPG fans. According to Square Enix, the DS version of Chrono Trigger was designed to be the definitive version of the game.
3.3. Animal Crossing: Wild World
Two villagers during one of the best DS games, Animal Crossing: Wild World.
Animal Crossing: Wild World is a notable DS game because it brought the charming life simulation to the handheld with online multiplayer and endless customization options. Players could create their own character, build a house, and interact with villagers in a virtual town. The game’s online multiplayer allowed players to visit each other’s towns and trade items. According to Nintendo, Wild World was designed to be a social and relaxing game that players could enjoy for hours on end.
3.4. Professor Layton and the Unwound Future
Professor Layton being pointed at during one of the best DS games, Professor Layton and the Unwound Future.
Professor Layton and the Unwound Future is a notable DS game because it is widely considered to be the best game in the Professor Layton series. The game features over 160 puzzles, a compelling story, and charming characters. Players must solve puzzles to progress through the story, and the puzzles range from simple logic problems to complex brainteasers. According to Level-5, the developers of the game, Unwound Future was designed to be the most challenging and rewarding game in the series.
3.5. Pokémon Black & White
A large Pokemon during one of the best DS games, Pokemon Black & White.
Pokémon Black & White are notable DS games because they introduced new battle mechanics and a fresh storyline, pushing the boundaries of the Pokémon series. The games featured a new region to explore, new Pokémon to catch, and a new story that challenged the traditional Pokémon formula. According to Game Freak, the developers of the games, Black & White were designed to be a fresh start for the Pokémon series.
4. Why are These Games Still Relevant in 2024?
These amazing DS games continue to be relevant in 2024 for several reasons:
- Nostalgia: Many players have fond memories of playing these games when they were first released, and they continue to enjoy them for nostalgic reasons.
- Unique Gameplay: The innovative use of the dual screen and stylus offered gameplay experiences that are still unique and engaging today.
- Timeless Quality: The best DS games feature well-written stories, charming characters, and engaging gameplay that has stood the test of time.
- Accessibility: The DS is still a relatively affordable console, and many of its games are available for purchase online or in used game stores.
4.1. Nostalgia Factor
For many gamers, the Nintendo DS era represents a golden age of handheld gaming. Replaying amazing DS games can bring back fond memories of childhood, friendships, and simpler times. The nostalgia factor is a powerful draw for many players.
4.2. Unique Gameplay Experiences
The DS’s unique hardware features allowed for gameplay experiences that are still fresh and innovative today. The touch screen, dual screen, and microphone were used in creative ways that are not replicated on other platforms.
4.3. Timeless Quality
The best DS games feature well-written stories, charming characters, and engaging gameplay that has stood the test of time. These games are still enjoyable to play today, even compared to more modern titles.
4.4. Affordability and Accessibility
The DS is still a relatively affordable console, and many of its games are available for purchase online or in used game stores. This makes it easy for players to revisit these classic titles without breaking the bank.
5. How to Play Amazing DS Games Today
There are several ways to play amazing DS games today:
- Original Hardware: The most authentic way to play DS games is on the original hardware. You can purchase a used DS or DS Lite online or in used game stores.
- Emulation: DS emulators are available for PC, Mac, and Android devices. These emulators allow you to play DS games on your computer or mobile device.
- Nintendo 3DS: The Nintendo 3DS is backward compatible with DS games, so you can play your old DS games on a 3DS.
- Wii U Virtual Console: Some DS games are available for purchase on the Wii U Virtual Console.
5.1. Playing on Original Hardware
Playing on the original hardware provides the most authentic experience. You’ll need a DS or DS Lite console and the physical game cartridges.
5.2. Using Emulators
Emulators allow you to play DS games on your computer or mobile device. Some popular DS emulators include DeSmuME, NO$GBA, and DraStic.
5.3. Playing on Nintendo 3DS
The Nintendo 3DS is backward compatible with DS games, so you can play your old DS games on a 3DS console. Simply insert the DS game cartridge into the 3DS and start playing.
5.4. Wii U Virtual Console
Some DS games are available for purchase on the Wii U Virtual Console. These games can be downloaded and played directly on your Wii U console.
6. Tips for Finding Rare and Valuable Amazing DS Games
Finding rare and valuable amazing DS games can be a challenge, but here are some tips to help you in your search:
- Check Local Game Stores: Visit local game stores and used game stores to see if they have any rare DS games in stock.
- Online Marketplaces: Check online marketplaces like eBay and Amazon for rare DS games.
- Game Conventions: Attend game conventions and retro gaming events to find rare DS games for sale.
- Price Charting Websites: Use price charting websites to track the value of rare DS games and identify good deals.
6.1. Checking Local Game Stores
Local game stores and used game stores are a great place to start your search for rare DS games. These stores often have a selection of used games, and you may be able to find some hidden gems.
6.2. Using Online Marketplaces
Online marketplaces like eBay and Amazon are another good source for rare DS games. Be sure to check the seller’s feedback rating and read the product description carefully before making a purchase.
6.3. Attending Game Conventions
Game conventions and retro gaming events are a great place to find rare DS games for sale. These events often feature vendors who specialize in retro games, and you may be able to find some hard-to-find titles.
6.4. Using Price Charting Websites
Price charting websites like PriceCharting.com can help you track the value of rare DS games and identify good deals. These websites track the prices of games sold on eBay and other online marketplaces, giving you a good sense of what a game is worth.
7. How the DS Shaped Handheld Gaming
The Nintendo DS revolutionized handheld gaming in several ways:
- Dual Screen Innovation: The dual screen design allowed for new gameplay possibilities and a unique visual experience.
- Touch Screen Revolution: The touch screen made gaming more intuitive and accessible, opening up new possibilities for gameplay mechanics.
- Affordable Price Point: The DS was relatively affordable compared to other consoles, making it accessible to a wider audience.
- Diverse Game Library: The DS had a diverse game library that catered to a wide range of tastes, from hardcore gamers to casual players.
7.1. Dual Screen Innovation
The dual screen design was a game-changer for handheld gaming. It allowed for new gameplay possibilities, such as displaying maps, inventories, or other information on the bottom screen while the action took place on the top screen.
7.2. Touch Screen Revolution
The touch screen made gaming more intuitive and accessible. Players could use the stylus to interact with the game world in new and creative ways, such as drawing paths for characters, solving puzzles, or controlling the action in real-time strategy games.
7.3. Affordable Price Point
The DS was relatively affordable compared to other consoles, making it accessible to a wider audience. This helped to popularize handheld gaming and bring it to a new generation of players.
7.4. Diverse Game Library
The DS had a diverse game library that catered to a wide range of tastes. From action-adventure games to RPGs to puzzle games, there was something for everyone on the DS.
8. The Legacy of the Nintendo DS
The Nintendo DS left a lasting legacy on the gaming industry:
- Popularized Handheld Gaming: The DS helped to popularize handheld gaming and bring it to a new generation of players.
- Inspired Innovation: The DS’s innovative hardware features inspired other developers to experiment with new gameplay mechanics.
- Created Lasting Franchises: The DS was home to many lasting franchises, such as Professor Layton, Mario & Luigi, and Pokémon.
- Demonstrated the Power of Innovation: The DS demonstrated the power of innovation in the gaming industry, showing that new hardware features and gameplay mechanics can attract a wide audience.
8.1. Popularized Handheld Gaming
The DS helped to popularize handheld gaming and bring it to a new generation of players. Its affordable price point and diverse game library made it accessible to a wider audience than ever before.
8.2. Inspired Innovation
The DS’s innovative hardware features inspired other developers to experiment with new gameplay mechanics. The touch screen, dual screen, and microphone were all used in creative ways that influenced the design of future handheld consoles.
8.3. Created Lasting Franchises
The DS was home to many lasting franchises, such as Professor Layton, Mario & Luigi, and Pokémon. These franchises continue to be popular today, and they owe their success in part to their roots on the Nintendo DS.
8.4. Demonstrated the Power of Innovation
The DS demonstrated the power of innovation in the gaming industry, showing that new hardware features and gameplay mechanics can attract a wide audience. The DS’s success proved that gamers are willing to embrace new ideas and that innovation can lead to commercial success.
9. What Makes a Great Amazing DS Game Today?
Today, a great amazing DS game is defined by several key factors:
- Originality: The game should offer something new and unique that sets it apart from other games.
- Gameplay: The game should be fun and engaging to play, with mechanics that are easy to learn but difficult to master.
- Story: The game should have a well-written story with memorable characters that resonate with players.
- Presentation: The game should look and sound good, with graphics and audio that enhance the gameplay experience.
- Replayability: The game should offer plenty of replay value, whether through multiple endings, unlockable content, or online multiplayer.
9.1. Originality and Innovation
A great amazing DS game should offer something new and unique that sets it apart from other games. This could be a new gameplay mechanic, a unique art style, or a compelling story.
9.2. Engaging Gameplay
The gameplay should be fun and engaging, with mechanics that are easy to learn but difficult to master. The game should also offer a good balance of challenge and reward, keeping players motivated to continue playing.
9.3. Compelling Story and Characters
The story should be well-written with memorable characters that resonate with players. The game should also have a clear narrative structure that keeps players engaged and invested in the story.
9.4. High-Quality Presentation
The game should look and sound good, with graphics and audio that enhance the gameplay experience. The game should also be well-polished, with few or no bugs or glitches.
9.5. Replay Value
The game should offer plenty of replay value, whether through multiple endings, unlockable content, or online multiplayer. This will keep players coming back for more and extend the lifespan of the game.
10. How to Care for Your DS and Game Cartridges
To ensure that your DS and game cartridges last for years to come, follow these care tips:
- Store Properly: Store your DS and game cartridges in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Clean Regularly: Clean your DS and game cartridges regularly with a soft, dry cloth.
- Handle with Care: Handle your DS and game cartridges with care to avoid damage.
- Protect the Screen: Protect your DS screen with a screen protector to prevent scratches.
10.1. Proper Storage Techniques
Store your DS and game cartridges in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help to prevent damage from heat, humidity, and UV rays.
10.2. Cleaning Guidelines
Clean your DS and game cartridges regularly with a soft, dry cloth. This will help to remove dust, dirt, and fingerprints. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the console and cartridges.
10.3. Handling Precautions
Handle your DS and game cartridges with care to avoid damage. Avoid dropping the console or cartridges, and do not insert or remove cartridges forcefully.
10.4. Screen Protection
Protect your DS screen with a screen protector to prevent scratches. Screen protectors are inexpensive and easy to apply, and they can help to keep your screen looking like new.
FAQ About Amazing DS Games
Here are some frequently asked questions about amazing DS games:
- What is the best amazing DS game of all time? Mario Kart DS
- What makes a DS game “amazing”? Innovative gameplay, compelling story, and unique use of the dual screen and stylus.
- Where can I buy amazing DS games? Local game stores, online marketplaces, and retro gaming events.
- How can I play amazing DS games today? Original hardware, emulators, Nintendo 3DS, and Wii U Virtual Console.
- Are amazing DS games still worth playing in 2024? Yes, for their nostalgia, unique gameplay, and timeless quality.
- What are some rare and valuable amazing DS games? Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver, Chrono Trigger, and Dragon Quest IX.
- How did the DS shape handheld gaming? Through its dual screen innovation, touch screen revolution, and affordable price point.
- What is the legacy of the Nintendo DS? Popularized handheld gaming, inspired innovation, and created lasting franchises.
- What makes a great amazing DS game today? Originality, engaging gameplay, compelling story, high-quality presentation, and replay value.
- How do I care for my DS and game cartridges? Store properly, clean regularly, handle with care, and protect the screen.
Conclusion
The world of amazing DS games is full of nostalgic, innovative, and entertaining titles that continue to captivate players in 2024. Whether you’re seeking a unique gaming experience, a trip down memory lane, or simply a fun and engaging way to pass the time, the DS library has something for everyone.
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