Nintendo DS 2024: A Retro Review

Hot Trend

You need 3 min read

·

Post on Nov 23, 2024

32 visitor like this post

Share

Nintendo DS 2024: A Retro Review - Revisiting a Handheld Legend

Hey everyone! So, I recently dusted off my old Nintendo DS. Yeah, I know, I'm totally showing my age. But seriously, getting my hands on that little clamshell again got me thinking… how did this thing totally dominate the handheld market for so long? And is it still worth playing in 2024? Let's dive into a little retro review, shall we?

My DS Disaster (and Triumph!)

I remember getting my first DS like it was yesterday. It was a launch day purchase, a shiny new pearl white model. I was so hyped. I’d saved up my allowance for months. My first game? Super Mario 64 DS. Classic! But let me tell you, that first week was a disaster. I dropped it. Like, seriously dropped it. Cracked the screen. I cried. It was heartbreaking, let me tell you. But my parents, bless their hearts, got it fixed. That's dedication.

That repair taught me something HUGE though: Always invest in a good case! Seriously, a simple case can save your bacon—and hundreds of dollars in repairs. Think of it as an insurance policy for your nostalgia.

The Genius of Dual Screens

The DS's dual screens were revolutionary! I mean, who’d thought two screens on a handheld was a good idea? It wasn’t just gimmicky either. Games like Metroid Prime Hunters used the second screen for maps and aiming, adding a whole new layer of gameplay. Professor Layton and the Curious Village made it a puzzle masterclass. Even simple games like Elite Beat Agents utilized it brilliantly for rhythm game inputs.

This dual-screen design really influenced later handhelds like the Nintendo 3DS and even the Switch. It was a masterstroke, pure and simple.

And thinking back, the touchscreen? Mindblowing back then! I could interact with the game in ways I never thought possible. It felt so intuitive.

Beyond the Games: The Community

But the DS wasn't just about the games; it was about the community. Remember the DSiWare downloads and the endless trading of games at school? The sharing of cheat codes? That sense of community was really something special. You'd constantly meet new people, and the trading aspect became a really fun way to experience different titles and build connections. I spent hours trading games with friends, each hoping to add another title to our ever-growing libraries.

Even now, online communities for the DS are thriving. It's a testament to the system's enduring popularity and how many people still look back upon this system fondly. I've even found a few online forums with some pretty handy guides for keeping the system running smoothly.

Is it Worth Playing in 2024?

So, the big question: is the Nintendo DS worth playing in 2024? Absolutely! The game library is massive, the games are still fun, and it's a great way to experience gaming history. Plus, it's portable—perfect for those long commutes or lazy afternoons. Of course, the graphics aren't going to blow you away (nostalgia goggles aside), but the gameplay more than makes up for it. There are tons of hidden gems waiting to be rediscovered!

Here's my advice:

• Find a good-condition console: Don't be afraid of buying used. Just inspect it carefully before purchasing.
• Explore the vast library: Don't just stick to the big hitters. Dig deep and find those hidden indie gems.
• Protect your investment: Get a good case and screen protector. You'll thank me later.
• Join the community: Connect with fellow DS fans online for tips, tricks, and game recommendations.

It may be older than most of the new phones, but there's a certain charm to revisiting the Nintendo DS in 2024. So go dig out your old system (or grab a new one), and prepare for a serious blast from the past. It’s more than worth it. Trust me. I know from experience.