Remember the thrill of catching your very first Pokémon? The Nintendo DS era brought us some of the most unforgettable adventures in the franchise. From exploring new regions to battling gym leaders, these games defined a generation of trainers. But with so many fantastic titles available on the DS, how do you choose which one to dive into next?
Picking the perfect Pokémon game can be tough. Do you choose the classic feel of Diamond and Pearl, or the vibrant world of Black and White? Each game offers unique Pokémon, different stories, and distinct mechanics. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the choices and worry about missing out on the “best” experience.
This guide cuts through the noise. We will break down the best Pokémon games for the Nintendo DS, highlighting what makes each one special. You will learn exactly which game fits your play style, whether you love deep stories or competitive battling. Get ready to find your next great Pokémon journey!
Top Ds Pokemon Games Recommendations
- 【Super Game Feast】208 in 1 Game Cartridge is a super game set for game fans. 208 games of different popular genres are available to meet any of your gaming needs. Each game can save the progress of the game. Comes with a beautiful case protector.
- 【Perfect Compatibility】Supports a wide range of game console systems. Compatible with NDS, SNDSL, NDSi, NDSi LL/XL, 3DSS, 3DS LL/XL, New 3DSS, New 3DS LL/XL, 2DS, New 2DS LL/XL, etc.
- 【Plug and Play】Buy and enjoy an endless journey of games. Language is English. Some games are multilingual and can recognize the host language and display the same language as the host.
- 【How to use】Insert the SD card into the game cartridge and install your favorite games into the console. Each game can save the progress of the game.
- This renewed game will not come with the original case or manual; cartridge only. It has been cleaned, tested, and is in nice condition.
- Epic Remake of the Hoenn Adventure – Relive the classic Pokémon Ruby story, rebuilt for Nintendo 3DS with updated 3D visuals, polished animations, and modern quality-of-life improvements in the Hoenn region.
- Harness Mega Evolution & Primal Reversion – Power up your team with dozens of Mega Evolutions and unleash the ancient might of Primal Groudon, exclusive to Omega Ruby.
- Legendary-Packed Journey – Encounter and catch a huge roster of Legendary and Mythical Pokémon, including Rayquaza and Deoxys in the special post-game story.
- All-New Delta Episode Storyline – After becoming Champion, dive into the Delta Episode, a dramatic adventure involving a massive asteroid, the secrets of Mega Evolution, and a mysterious new character, Zinnia.
- Features: Record game card,Have been Tested carefully and found to be Working perfectly !
- Games are new and in English.(US Version)
- Play on NDS , NDS Lite , NDSI ,NDSLL , NDSXL and 3DS
- If you have any questions, please contact us first
- Fully 3D Pokémon world on Nintendo 3DS – Experience mainline Pokémon gameplay with fully 3D characters, battles, and environments for the first time in the series.
- New region & starters – Journey through the Kalos region and begin with one of three new starters: Grass-type Chespin, Fire-type Fennekin, or Water-type Froakie.
- New battle types & training options – Try Sky Battles and Horde Encounters, and improve your team with features like Super Training and other new training tools.
- Powerful new Pokémon & Mega Evolution – Encounter the majestic Legendary Xerneas and discover Mega Evolution, which temporarily powers up certain Pokémon in battle.
- A new light shines on the Alola region!
- Take on the role of a Pokemon Trainer and encounter Pokemon, uncover new tales, and Unravel the mystery behind the two forms reminiscent of the legendary Pokemon.
- These new titles power up the Pokemon Sun and Pokemon moon content with new story additions and features, earning them the name “ultra!” another adventure is about to begin!
- Destructoid: "A hallmark of excellence.";GameSpot: "...a fun-filled and uplifting Pokemon adventure…"
The Ultimate Buying Guide for DS Pokémon Games
Are you ready to catch ’em all on the go? The Nintendo DS (and 3DS) hosts a massive library of fantastic Pokémon adventures. This guide helps you choose the right game for your collection.
1. Key Features to Look For
When selecting a DS Pokémon game, several features make a big difference in your experience. You should check these things first.
- Generation & Region: Pokémon games are grouped into “Generations” (like Gen IV: Diamond/Pearl or Gen V: Black/White). Newer generations often have more Pokémon and better graphics. Decide which region you want to explore!
- Connectivity: Can the game connect to other players? Local wireless play is crucial for trading and battling friends nearby.
- Compatibility: If you own a Nintendo 3DS, check if the game is “DS-compatible.” Most DS games work on the 3DS, but some 3DS games won’t work on older DS models.
- Legendary Pokémon: Every game features unique Legendary Pokémon. If you need a specific one for your collection, check which version (e.g., HeartGold vs. SoulSilver) holds it.
2. Important Materials and Physical Condition
Since most DS Pokémon games are now bought second-hand, the physical condition matters greatly.
- The Cartridge: Look closely at the plastic cartridge itself. Deep scratches can sometimes cause reading errors. The metal contacts on the back must be clean; dirty contacts often stop the game from starting.
- The Label: Is the label crisp and clear? Faded or peeling labels usually mean the game has been handled roughly.
- The Case and Manual: While not essential for gameplay, having the original case and instruction manual significantly increases the game’s value and completeness.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of your Pokémon journey depends on a few key factors.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Save File Status: A game with a fresh, empty save file is usually preferred. If the previous owner played it a lot, you might inherit a confusing mix of Pokémon or items.
- Compatibility with Newer Systems: Games that can transfer Pokémon up to newer generations (like Pokémon Bank compatibility) offer a better long-term experience.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Battery Issues: Older DS games (especially those requiring internal batteries for time-based events, like HeartGold/SoulSilver) might have a dead battery. If the battery dies, you can still play, but in-game clocks stop working.
- Counterfeits: Fake cartridges exist. Genuine cartridges usually have clear, crisp labels and a small, visible stamp number etched into the label or plastic casing. Counterfeits often look blurry or cheap.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use the game should guide your purchase.
For the Collector:
If you want to collect every game, focus on finding complete-in-box (CIB) copies of rare titles like the Pokémon Ranger series or the original Black and White versions.
For the Competitive Battler:
Games that allow easy transfer to later systems are best. Players often highly value Pokémon Platinum for its robust Battle Frontier facility.
For the Casual Explorer:
If you just want a fun adventure, any mainline entry works well. Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver are often recommended because they let your lead Pokémon walk behind you—a very fun feature!
10 FAQs About DS Pokémon Games
Q: Which DS Pokémon games are the best?
A: Many fans consider Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver (remakes of Gold and Silver) the best due to their massive content and the ability to travel two regions.
Q: Are the DS Pokémon games expensive now?
A: Yes, many are. Older, popular titles often cost more than they did when they first came out because they are no longer printed.
Q: Can I play these games on my Switch?
A: No, DS games require a physical Nintendo DS or 3DS system. They cannot be played directly on the Nintendo Switch.
Q: What is the difference between Pokémon Diamond and Pearl?
A: The main difference is the Pokémon you find in the wild. Each version features different exclusive Pokémon, and you usually need the other version to complete the Pokédex.
Q: Do I need two DS systems to trade?
A: Yes, to trade Pokémon between two different games, you need two compatible DS systems (or one 3DS system and two game cartridges).
Q: What is the easiest way to clean the game cartridge contacts?
A: Gently wipe the gold contacts using a cotton swab lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol. Let it dry completely before inserting it into the console.
Q: Which DS games are compatible with Pokémon Bank?
A: Pokémon Bank allows transfers from Pokémon Black, White, Black 2, and White 2. These are the final DS games that can connect to that service.
Q: What does “DS Lite compatible” mean?
A: It means the game works perfectly on the original DS Lite model. All DS games work on the DS Lite.
Q: Should I buy Pokémon Black or White first?
A: Pokémon Black and White are part of the same generation. They offer a great story, but you should play Black before Black 2, and White before White 2, as the sequels continue the story.
Q: How long does the battery usually last in these cartridges?
A: The internal clock batteries can last many years, but once they die, they usually need replacement to restore time-based features.
Hi, I’m Mallory Crusta, the heart and mind behind LovelyPetSpot.com.. As a passionate pet enthusiast, I created this space to share my experiences, expertise, and love for all things pets. Whether it’s helpful tips, heartfelt stories, or advice for pet parents, my mission is to make the journey of caring for your furry, feathery, or scaly friends as joyful and fulfilling as possible. Join me in celebrating the incredible bond we share with our animal companions!