The Nintendo DS is home to some of the most iconic games ever created. Still, beneath the surface of classics like Pokémon and Mario Kart, there exists a hidden collection of titles that didn’t receive the attention they truly deserve. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the DS or just diving into its expansive library, this list will introduce you to some truly remarkable titles you might have missed.
From thrilling puzzle adventures to time-bending RPGs, these games offer something for every type of player. So, if you’ve played the big-name titles and are looking to explore deeper into the world of Nintendo DS, this guide will highlight 17 games that deserve a second look. Get ready to discover some of the best-kept secrets of the DS library.
17 Underrated DS Games
These underrated DS games have fascinating stories, unique gameplay mechanics, and unforgettable experiences that often go unnoticed by mainstream audiences.
Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective
In Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective, you assume the role of a ghost named Sissel, tasked with solving the mystery of your own death. The game blends clever puzzles with an intriguing narrative. The game’s unique concept and stylish animation make it a standout, even among other underrated DS games.
9 Hours, 9 Persons, 9 Doors (999)
A gripping visual novel that combines psychological horror with mind-bending puzzles, 999 traps players in a deadly escape room scenario. With multiple endings and a story full of twists and turns, 999 stands out as one of the most complex and thought-provoking underrated DS games.
Avalon Code
In Avalon Code, you are given a magical book that lets you manipulate the world around you. Whether it’s changing the attributes of characters, items, or enemies, this RPG offers a deep and immersive experience that stands out for its originality and creativity, yet it remains largely underappreciated.
Radiant Historia
Radiant Historia takes players on a journey through time, where the decisions you make can reshape the future. With a deep and layered narrative, unique turn-based combat, and the ability to travel between alternate timelines, this time-travelling RPG stands as one of the best RPGs the DS has to offer, but it never reached the popularity it truly deserves.
The World Ends with You
Set in an alternate version of Tokyo, The World Ends with You offers a unique blend of RPG elements and dual-screen combat. The game’s stylish art direction and innovative gameplay mechanics make it a prime example of how the DS pushed boundaries in terms of gameplay. Unfortunately, it remains relatively underappreciated.
Soma Bringer
This action RPG, only officially released in Japan, features a compelling storyline and a customizable combat system. Through fan translations, players outside Japan have been able to enjoy its thrilling battles and stunning graphics. Soma Bringer may not have garnered mainstream attention, but it stands out as an underrated gem.
Henry Hatsworth in the Puzzling Adventure
Henry Hatsworth in the Puzzling Adventure mixes platforming with match-3 puzzle gameplay. The quirky mechanic, where success in solving puzzles influences progress in the platformer levels, creates a fun and challenging experience. The game’s unique concept and charm make it one of the most inventive, underrated DS games.
Hotel Dusk: Room 215
Set in a noir-inspired hotel, Hotel Dusk: Room 215 offers an interactive detective experience that immerses players in a world full of mystery and intrigue. With its distinctive art style and gripping story, this game offers an unforgettable experience for fans of detective stories, but remains a hidden treasure on the DS.
Aliens: Infestation
It takes the action-platformer genre to new heights with its tense gameplay set in the Aliens universe. Fighting Xenomorphs and managing a squad of marines, the game combines horror and action to create a thrilling experience. While it flew under the radar for many, it’s one of the most intense and underrated DS games for fans of sci-fi action.
Lock’s Quest
Lock’s Quest is a unique strategy game that combines fortress-building with real-time combat. Players are tasked with defending their fortresses against waves of enemies, creating a unique blend of strategy and action. Though not widely recognized, it’s one of the most innovative strategy games on the DS.
Infinite Space
This space RPG offers deep customization and a vast universe to explore. Players can engage in space battles, manage their fleet, and make decisions that shape the galaxy. Infinite Space is a complex and highly detailed RPG that’s often overlooked, but it provides a rich experience for those who seek it out.
Bowser’s Inside Story
In Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story, players control both Mario and Bowser as they explore inside Bowser’s body. This unique setup, along with its humorous writing and solid RPG mechanics, makes it a standout entry in the Mario & Luigi series. Unfortunately, it hasn’t received as much love as some other titles in the franchise.
Lunar Knights
From the creators of Boktai, Lunar Knights blends action RPG gameplay with a day/night cycle that influences combat. Players must strategically manage their resources and time to defeat enemies, making it one of the more innovative and underrated games on the DS.
Dragon Quest Heroes: Rocket Slime
In Dragon Quest Heroes: Rocket Slime, players control a slime and build tanks for battle. With its simple yet engaging gameplay and unique take on the Dragon Quest series, this game provides hours of fun. It’s a charming, underrated DS title that has flown under the radar for many players. A quirky spin-off blending puzzle-solving and tank combat, perfect for Dragon Quest fans.
Monster Tale
It combines platforming with pet-raising mechanics, allowing players to train monsters to fight by their side. With its original gameplay and charming characters, this underrated DS game offers a fresh twist on the platformer genre. An enjoyable mix of pet care and platforming that stands out for its unique mechanics and fun story.
Okamiden
The sequel to Okami, Okamiden, uses the DS’s touch screen in innovative ways to draw symbols for spells and combat. With its stunning art style and engaging story, Okamiden stands as an underrated classic that deserves more attention, especially for fans of the original Okami. An artistic gem that improves on the original formula, offering a captivating narrative.
Ghostbusters: The Video Game
This Video Game offers a fun and immersive experience in the iconic Ghostbusters universe. With original characters and an engaging story, it’s one of the best adaptations of the franchise, but it remains underappreciated on the DS. A fun action-adventure that lets you live out your Ghostbusters dreams, complete with the original cast and ghost-busting action.
Conclusion
The Nintendo DS is a goldmine for underrated titles that provide unforgettable experiences but often go unnoticed. Whether you’re looking for deep RPGs, unique platformers, or interactive stories, the DS has something to offer every type of gamer.
These 17 games may not have received the attention they deserve, but they’re sure to provide hours of entertainment and excitement. If you’re a DS fan or simply looking for something new, these underrated gems are well worth your time.
