The best video games locked on Nintendo DS

The Nintendo DS is one of the most interesting portable consoles ever made. Not only is it the only one to use two screens, but it also uses integrated touch mechanics and a microphone. This opened the door for some special entries in the console line-up that have since only been seen in that era.

Some games would spawn their own standalone franchise for the console, while others offered the definitive way to experience a classic game. However, while some original games would become available later, their remasters would remain trapped on the Nintendo DS system.

8 Pokémon Ranger

Capture!

While the Pokemon Mystery Dungeon spin-off franchise will eventually move over from the Nintendo DS, Pokemon Ranger remains rooted in the system. This game changes the Pokemon rules so you can't catch Pokemon permanently.

Instead, you're simply calming them down and asking for their help in powering up your Capture Styler or eliminating obstacles along the way. The entire game revolves around using the touch screen to draw circles around angry Pokemon without letting them touch the lines you draw. Considering that the Nintendo Switch has both a touch screen and motion controls, it's surprising that Pokemon Rangers remains dormant and trapped on the Nintendo DS.

7 Kirby Superstar Ultra

It's time for a gourmet competition

The Nintendo DS has tons of games for all ages, and Kirby is one of the most fun. The ability to copy abilities and float around the screen has always led Kirby to victory, whether you're trying to take back a piece of the pie or battle the unimaginable cosmic horrors at the end of your journey.

Kirby Superstar Ultra is a remake of Kirby Superstar from the Super Nintendo era. With updated graphics and use of the touch screen interface, this is a game that hasn't been ported to 3D. Race against King Dedede to eat the most snacks or play as Meta Knight to become the galaxy's greatest warrior, with so many modes to choose from, it's a shame that the definitive version of Kirby Superstar is locked away.

6 Mario and Luigi collaborate over time

A Mario and Luigi game without a remake

Mario and Luigi Partners in Time is the sequel to the original Mario and Luigi Superstar Saga. While the game didn't benefit much from having a touch screen, it did benefit from having an overhead screen for larger battles.

This game is unique among the Mario and Luigi series in that it brings together baby versions of the characters who ride on the backs of their adult counterparts. They also have their own unique abilities that help you explore each location more. As the Mushroom Kingdom of the past is threatened by alien invaders, only the heroes of the future can come back and save the day.

5 Super Mario 64 DS

The best way to play Super Mario 64

Super Mario 64 DS is almost a completely new game with all new content added to the original title. There are more rabbits you need to capture to unlock special content, three new characters to play as, each with their own unique abilities, and Yoshi, who can swap all three hats to change his shape.

This game also includes bonus levels not found in the original Nintendo 64 game, as well as a whole host of minigames that highlight the touch screen. Does Yoshi feel loved today? Can you beat Luigi at the casino? How about separating the Bob-ombs? This game is the perfect combination of a long adventure and quick fun for small sessions.

4 Pokémon Conquest

Pokemon in the Feudal Era

Pokemon Conquest is one of the most experimental games in the series. It's also a Pokemon game that you can easily forget exists. In this game you have to move Pokemon around a board to get them into strategic spaces. When you get close enough to an enemy, you can attack them.

Like the mainline games, some types of Pokemon are strong against others, which will affect who you choose to go after each enemy. There's also a whole new region and 17 kingdoms that need to be conquered. Each area provides unique obstacles, partners, and Pokemon. You will have to strategize and respond to your opponent's every move if you want to unite the entire nation.

3 Elite Agents

It's up to the beat

The Elite Beat Agents emerged once during the life of the Nintendo DS, then completely disappeared from existence. The gameplay is as simple as they come. All you have to do is time your taps to the rhythm and icons that appear on the touch screen. This is a great rhythm game with fun scenarios playing in the background.

Is a babysitter overrun with kids she doesn't want to take care of? Is there a child who needs to be reunited with his father's ghost? This is when the Elite Beat agents are called. Each scenario has multiple endings depending on your score.

2 WarioWare: moved!

Tap to win

WarioWare Touched is one of the best titles in the series thanks to the way it manages to use all the game mechanics available on the Nintendo DS. When Wario's Game Boy Advance falls into the sewer, an old man offers to return the console or a newer device to him.

Wario being greedy, decides to steal them both. However, using a console with two screens and no buttons, Wario begins churning out minigames that force the player to draw, cut and tap their way to victory. This game also uses the microphone for unique gameplay that requires the player to blow air to win. This innovative game was designed for the DS, so it makes sense that it can only be played on the handheld.

1 Super Princess Peach

Use the power of emotions

Princess Peach: Showtime isn't the only game where Princess Peach takes center stage. In the Nintendo DS era, she starred in her first portable adventure, Super Princess Peach. This time, Mario and Luigi are both captured while Bowser attempts to create a summer home on Vibe Island.

Now, using the power of emotions, Peach must overcome each level, find the missing Toads, and defeat the bosses that block her progress. Vibrations can be activated from the touch screen. Each allows her to do something different, like float through the air with joy, let a fiery rage sweep over her, or unleash the aqueduct to solve some plumbing puzzles.