DS games were originally designed for the Nintendo DS, the Switch’s early predecessor. Playing these games on the Switch is a great way to experience classic titles without purchasing the original console.
But do DS games actually work on the Switch? Well, the answer is complicated.
While the Switch is compatible with various game titles, there are limitations to what can be played on the console. If you are looking for answers to this question, this article is for you.
We will explore the compatibility of DS games with Switch, its legality, and the pros and cons. Let’s get started!
Do DS Games Work on Switch?
Yes, DS games work on Switch, but not directly. Switch has more powerful hardware specifications than the DS. So, you may need a third-party app like Homebrew and an emulator like NeonDS.
Homebrew is software that allows you to bypass restrictions on the Nintendo Switch and perform various tasks. Emulators, on the other hand, allow you to play DS games on the Switch by mimicking the hardware and software of the DS.
You will also need an SD card with a storage capacity of at least 4GB, preferably 64GB or more. Ensure that your console is not patched, as a patched console will not be vulnerable to exploits.
Finally, you will need a USB-C or USB-A cable to connect your Nintendo Switch to your computer or phone.
Note: Nintendo does not officially support playing DS games on the Switch, so there are no guarantees that your game will work as expected.
If you’re looking for more games to play on your Switch, we’ve got a list of the best Nintendo Switch zombie games you’ll absolutely enjoy!
Is It Illegal to Play DS Games On Switch?
No, it’s not illegal to play DS games on Switch. However, it requires you to jailbreak your console, bypassing its built-in security features. This violates Nintendo’s Terms of use, leading to a ban or warranty void. It can also expose your device to security risks like malware or privacy breaches.
Looking to buy games for your console? Find out if Nintendo Switch games are region-locked.
Depending on the laws in your country, you could face legal consequences for jailbreaking your device. For example, the US Digital Millennium Copyright Act makes bypassing digital locks that protect copyrighted materials illegal.
Check your country’s laws before jailbreaking your Switch to play DS games.
Learn more about the legality of playing DS games on Switch from Nintendo.
How to Play DS Games On Switch
Here’s how to play Nintendo DS games on Switch:
Step 1: Install the “Homebrew App” on Your Switch Console
To install the Homebrew app, plug the SD card into a computer, download Homebrew, and copy it into the SD card. Then, plug the SD card into the Switch.
Step 2: Download and Install a “DS Emulator”
You can download the RetroArch emulator for free online. RetroArch provides an in-depth guide on how to install it.
Here’s a video guide about installing Retroarch on your Nintendo Switch:
Step 3: Install the DS ROM for the Game You Want to Play on Your Switch
Read-only memory (ROMs) are digital copies of original game cartridges that emulators need to run the game. Without the ROM, the game would be unplayable on the emulator.
Step 4: Open the Emulator & Select a DS Game
Can a 3DS and Switch Play Together?
No, a 3DS and Switch can’t play together. They use different hardware and software, making their games incompatible. The consoles also do not offer cross-platform multiplayer.
While some games offer cross-progression support, it is not the same as playing with others in real-time. This means you can start playing the game on one console and continue on another.
One such game is Monster Hunters Generation. It is available on both the Switch and 3DS and allows cross-progression support.
Pros and Cons of Playing DS Games On Switch
These are the pros and cons of playing Nintendo DS games on Switch:
Pros of Playing DS Games on the Switch
- Enhanced Graphics.
The Switch’s hardware is more advanced than the DS’s, resulting in better gameplay and smoother performance. This can make the game more immersive and enjoyable to play. - Bigger Screen.
Another benefit of playing old games on the Switch is its larger screen. With a screen size of over 6.2 inches, gamers can enjoy their favorite titles on a bigger display and take in more of the game world. - More Power.
The Switch offers more computing power than the DS, resulting in smoother and faster gameplay. This can be useful for games with complex graphics or requiring much processing power. - Convenience.
Players can now enjoy their favorite DS games on the go using the portable Switch console instead of carrying a separate DS device.
Did you know you can use PSP emulators on your iOS device to enjoy the best PSP games?
Cons of Playing DS Games On the Switch
- Expensive.
Gamers may need to purchase updated versions of DS titles to play on Switch, which can be costly. Some games are rare and hard to find, increasing costs. - Limited Features.
DS games use features like dual screen and touch screen adaptation, which may not be available on Switch. This may make the gameplay experience less enjoyable. - Performance.
The Switch is not optimized for DS games and may experience performance issues. So, you may experience lags and other performance issues.
Can You Play DS Games on Your Phone?
Yes, you can play DS games on your phone by downloading a ROM and an emulator. Once downloaded, open the emulator and select the ROM to play the game. Nintendo DS ROMs have countless games that you can emulate on your phone.
The best emulators for Nintendo DS are DraStic DS, NDS Emulator, and nds4droid. To protect your computer from potential cyber threats, be sure to download an antivirus before downloading any files from the web.
DS Games Work on Switch
Although it may not be straightforward, you can still play DS games on the Switch using third-party apps. You can use Homebrew and DS Emulators to bypass the Switch’s restrictions.
Remember that these actions may violate Nintendo’s terms of service, which could result in bans and voiding of your console’s warranty. Additionally, you may experience lags, as the Switch is not specifically designed for DS games.
Playing Nintendo DS games on the Switch can improve your gaming experience with better graphics and a larger screen. So, it’s up to you to decide whether it’s worth it.
