The Nintendo DS, with its innovative dual-screen setup, offered a unique platform for action games. It wasn’t just about ports of console titles; the DS fostered its own breed of action adventures, often prioritizing clever controls and inventive level design. For those seeking adrenaline-pumping experiences on the go, the DS library presents a treasure trove. Let’s delve into what makes a great action game on the DS and uncover some of the best titles.
What Makes a Great Action Game on the DS?
A truly captivating action game on the Nintendo DS goes beyond just button-mashing and fast reflexes. It embraces the console’s unique features to deliver an experience that’s both engaging and satisfying. Here’s what we often look for:
- Innovative Touch Controls: The DS’s touch screen allowed developers to implement unique mechanics not possible on other platforms. Games that effectively used touch for aiming, movement, or puzzles often stood out.
- Responsive Controls: Precision is crucial in action games. A clunky control scheme can quickly ruin the fun. Titles with tight, responsive controls feel fluid and empowering.
- Varied Gameplay: Repetitive gameplay is a common pitfall. The Best Ds Action Games feature diverse environments, enemy types, and gameplay mechanics to keep players on their toes.
- Engaging Story: While not essential, a compelling narrative often adds an extra layer of enjoyment. A well-told story can elevate even basic gameplay to something special.
- Unique Art Style: The DS wasn’t known for its graphical prowess, but games that embraced a distinct art style often looked fantastic. Whether it was pixel art or stylized 3D, visual flair made a significant impact.
Top DS Action Games: Our Curated Picks
Now, let’s get into the meat of it. Here are some of the best action games on the DS, categorized for clarity:
2D Platforming Powerhouses
The DS was home to some truly excellent 2D platformers, titles that pushed the system to its limits while delivering classic gameplay:
- Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow: This entry in the long-running Castlevania franchise is a must-play. Its Metroidvania-style exploration, coupled with tight action, makes it incredibly addictive. The use of the touch screen for magic seals adds a unique twist, showcasing a great blend of tradition and innovation.
- Mega Man Zero Collection: This collection bundles all four Mega Man Zero titles onto one cartridge. Known for their challenging difficulty and fast-paced action, these games are perfect for those looking for a serious test of their platforming skills. The intricate level design and precise controls are a masterclass in 2D platforming.
- Contra 4: A welcome return to the run-and-gun action of the classic Contra games. Contra 4 boasts intense, over-the-top action that harkens back to the series’ glory days. It’s a challenging and rewarding experience for fans of the genre.
- Metroid: Zero Mission: Although technically a remake, Zero Mission on the GBA (compatible with the DS) is an excellent platforming game with a tight control system. This Metroid game is often included in discussions on the best handheld games. It boasts a tight control scheme and the iconic Metroid atmosphere. If you are looking for a game with a sense of exploration and action, this is definitely one to try.
3D Action Thrills
While the DS wasn’t as powerful as home consoles, developers found ways to create engaging 3D action experiences. This means there are plenty of 3ds games action, which is a great start if you want to extend the search beyond the DS, to the 3DS.
- The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass: This Zelda title utilizes the touch screen in a unique way. The touch controls for Link’s movement and inventory management are intuitive, and the game’s sailing mechanic is a highlight. Phantom Hourglass delivers a memorable Zelda adventure with a unique control scheme.
- Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword: This action title makes great use of the DS’s stylus. The combat feels precise and engaging, and the game boasts a surprisingly deep combat system for a handheld title. The action is fast-paced and visceral, making it a standout title on the DS.
- Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days: This action RPG offers a deep and engaging story with a unique twist on the Kingdom Hearts combat system. It is a great starting point for those wanting to dive into the series. Exploring the Organization XIII through Roxas’s eyes provides a great experience. The best action 3ds games will certainly have some cross over with this title in its own right.
Action RPG Hybrids
For those who enjoy leveling up their character alongside exciting combat, the DS has some compelling action RPG hybrids to offer, and there are also some 3ds action rpg games that are worth exploring.
- Final Fantasy XII: Revenant Wings: A sequel to Final Fantasy XII on the PlayStation 2, Revenant Wings is a real-time strategy RPG that retains the charm and lore of the original title. The game’s story and combat system are engaging, although it does play quite differently.
- Chrono Trigger: A classic JRPG, Chrono Trigger was ported to the DS with new features. The active-time battle system adds a layer of action to the RPG gameplay. The game’s story and the art style are legendary, making it a worthwhile title to explore.
- Children of Mana: This action RPG is quite different from the rest of the Mana series and features four different characters with unique stories and gameplay. Combat is fairly simple and action-oriented. This is a fun game to get into with a friend.
Unique Action Experiences
The DS was a platform that encouraged experimentation, which led to some wonderfully unique action games:
- Elite Beat Agents: A rhythm action game where players tap along to the beat, this is a unique experience on the DS. The energetic soundtrack and quirky visuals create a very fun experience.
- Viewtiful Joe: Double Trouble!: This side-scrolling beat ’em up is known for its stylish action and vibrant visuals. The gameplay is smooth and fun, and the superhero theme is an experience on the DS, making it among the good action adventure games 3ds.
- Okamiden: A sequel to Okami on the PlayStation 2, Okamiden brings the series’ unique brushstroke mechanic to the DS touch screen. The game’s art style and storytelling are compelling.
Finding Your Perfect DS Action Game
With such a wide variety of options, finding the perfect DS action game can be a task, but hopefully the above list has helped. Consider what you value most in an action game. Do you crave fast-paced platforming, or engaging combat? Are you interested in a compelling story, or are you more about the gameplay? Here’s what we’ve learned:
- For 2D platforming fans: Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow and Mega Man Zero Collection are great starting points.
- For 3D action enthusiasts: The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass and Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword are fantastic choices.
- For those wanting action RPGs: Final Fantasy XII: Revenant Wings and Chrono Trigger offer a mix of action and story.
- For unique experiences: Elite Beat Agents and Okamiden deliver something special.
Expert Insight
“The Nintendo DS, while not the most powerful system, gave birth to some of the most unique and creative action games.” – Dr. Eleanor Vance, Video Game Historian
“The touch screen was a real game changer. Many games used it in innovative ways, creating a whole new type of gameplay.” – James “Jimmy” Sterling, Professional Game Designer
Conclusion
The Nintendo DS boasts a fantastic library of action games, often overlooked due to the sheer volume of titles available. From classic platformers to inventive action RPGs, there’s something for everyone. By focusing on titles that make the most of the DS’s unique features, you’ll find that the system is still capable of offering hours of fast-paced, engaging gameplay. So dust off that old DS, or fire up an emulator, and prepare to experience some of the best ds action games ever made!
FAQ
Q: Are these games difficult to find today?
A: Some of the titles might be harder to find physically, but many are available as used cartridges or can be played via emulation.
Q: Do I need a Nintendo DS Lite or can I use a different DS model?
A: Any version of the Nintendo DS or DS Lite will play DS games. 3DS models are also compatible with DS cartridges.
Q: What about the 3DS action games? Are they much better?
A: The 3DS has some fantastic action games, and they may be worth exploring after your DS. The best action 3ds games are a definite step up in terms of graphics and power.
Q: Can I play these games on a modern device?
A: Yes, there are emulators for computers and smartphones that allow you to play DS games on other devices.
Q: What if I am new to the DS, which game would you recommend first?
A: If you are new to the DS then start with The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass. It has a good balance between being a great action game, but also approachable.
Q: Do any of these action games have multiplayer features?
A: Yes, some of the titles such as Children of Mana and Contra 4 offer multiplayer options.
Further Reading
If you are interested in other platforms for action games, you might also enjoy these articles:
- Unveiling the Best Action 3DS Games: A Thrilling Portable Experience
- The Thrill of Action RPGs on the 3DS: A Deep Dive
- Exploring Good Action Adventure Games on the 3DS
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