The Nintendo DS, with its innovative dual-screen setup, left an indelible mark on the gaming world. Its extensive library of games, ranging from the strategic depths of "Advance Wars" to the immersive worlds of "The Legend of Zelda," has a timeless appeal.
Thankfully, technology has evolved to allow these classics to be enjoyed on modern smartphones through emulators. In this article, we dive into the 10 best Nintendo DS emulators for Android and iOS, ensuring that nostalgia is just a download away.
Whether you're an Android user or an iOS aficionado, there's something for everyone in this comprehensive guide.
Best Nintendo DS Emulators for Android and iOS
1. DraStic DS Emulator (Android)
DraStic stands out for its performance and customization options. It offers enhanced graphics, save state support, and even supports physical controllers. The emulator is known for its speed and compatibility with a vast array of DS games.
- Download Link: Google Play Store
2. nds4ios (iOS)
nds4ios is one of the pioneers for Nintendo DS emulation on iOS. It provides a smooth gaming experience without the need for jailbreaking your device. Features include Dropbox integration for easy game saves and external controller support.
- Download Instructions: Due to Apple's restrictions, downloading nds4ios requires a bit of a workaround. Visit iEmulators.com for detailed instructions.
3. RetroArch (Android & iOS)
RetroArch is a versatile emulator that supports multiple systems, including the Nintendo DS. Its all-in-one approach makes it a popular choice for gamers looking to emulate various consoles. RetroArch prides itself on offering cross-platform compatibility and a wealth of customization features.
- Download Links: Google Play Store | App Store
4. NDS Boy! (Android)
NDS Boy! is a robust option for Android users with high-end devices. It supports a wide range of DS games and includes basic features like save states and customizable controls. However, it’s more suited for newer smartphones due to its resource demands.
- Download Link: Google Play Store
5. iNDS (iOS)
iNDS is another iOS emulator that doesn’t require jailbreaking. It offers features like auto-save and integration with Dropbox. The emulator is updated regularly, ensuring compatibility with newer iOS versions.
- Download Instructions: iNDS is available through services like BuildStore. Visit BuildStore for more information.
6. EmuBox (Android)
EmuBox is a relatively new entrant that combines emulation for several consoles, including the Nintendo DS. It’s a free option that includes ads, but offers features like save/load states, fast forward, and controller support.
- Download Link: Google Play Store
7. SuperNDS (Android)
SuperNDS is known for its simplicity and ease of use. While it may not have the deep customization of DraStic, it supports a wide array of ROM formats and is a solid choice for casual gamers.
- Download Link: Google Play Store
8. NDS4Droid (Android)
NDS4Droid is an open-source emulator that has been around for a while. It’s completely free and supports save states, sound, and OUYA game console. Being open-source, it’s regularly updated by the community.
- Download Link: Google Play Store
9. MelonDS (Android & iOS)
MelonDS aims for accuracy and performance. While primarily known for its desktop version, there are unofficial ports available for mobile devices that offer a good balance of compatibility and performance.
- Download Instructions: For Android, an APK can be found on GitHub. iOS users will need to look for a jailbreak version or use AltStore.
10. DeSmuME (iOS)
DeSmuME is widely recognized in the emulation community for its desktop version. An iOS port offers a decent option for emulation, though it requires a bit of technical know-how to install.
- Download Instructions: Like MelonDS for iOS, installation methods vary and may require AltStore or a jailbreak.
Wrapping Up
Emulating Nintendo DS games on Android and iOS devices breathes new life into classic games, making them accessible anywhere you go. While some options require a bit of extra effort to install, the payoff is the vast library of DS games at your fingertips. Remember, it's important to own the games you emulate to respect copyright laws.
