System Overview
Released in 2004/2005, the Nintendo DS is another pioneering handheld console from Nintendo. Adopting a clamshell design with two screens, the bottom screen being touchscreen), built-in microphone and wireless connectivity. The Nintendo DS is very much a handheld that had moved with the times.
It’s abilities extended to being capable of delivering solid 3D gaming experiences, which resulted in a number of N64 games finding their way to the system. More significantly, the Nintendo DS can account for the increase in popularity of handheld gaming across a much wider audience in terms of age and gender.
Impressively, the Nintendo DS in all of its variations has sold over 154 million units. Making it by far the best selling handheld of all time.
The DS retailed until 2014, where it was replaced by the Nintendo 3DS.
How to Emulate this system?
Nintendo DS emulation is reasonably well catered for, we recommend taking a look at RetroArch if you are seeking an all in one solution. RetroArch emulates a large number of systems including the Nintendo DS. RetroArch is a front end that utilises emulator 'cores', it is reasonably easy to use and has lots of good supporting documentation on how to use it. RetroArch is available across a number of platforms including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Raspberry Pi and many consoles.
Also, check out the other Nintendo DS emulators we enjoy using:
| Emulator | Description | Platform |
|---|---|---|
| DeSmuME | DeSmeME is a Nintendo DS emulator for Windows & Mac | Windows / Mac |
| DraStic | DraStic is the best way to play Nintendo DS games on your Android device | Android |
Emulating the Nintendo DS using a Raspberry Pi
The Raspberry Pi is a compact single board computer which has become very popular for emulating retro computers and consoles. You can buy the Pi very cheaply and has a whole community supporting and building accessories and applications that are compatible with.
Significantly, for Retro Gaming enthusiasts, the Raspberry Pi offers fantastic all round emulation of many systems. It offers the ability to output games on HDTVs via HDMI or older CRT TVs via composite outputs. Combining the Raspberry Pi with Retropie, you have a device capable of emulating anything from the Atari 2600 to the Sony PlayStation.
Check out the different Raspberry Pi packages you can pick up on Amazon using the button below.
Check Amazon for Availability