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Android DS Emulator Released

Authore: GabriellaUpdate:Jan 25,2025

Unlocking the Power of Nintendo DS Emulation on Android: A Comprehensive Guide

Android offers some of the most efficient Nintendo DS emulation available. With numerous emulators to choose from, selecting the best one can be challenging. This guide highlights top contenders, catering to various needs and device capabilities.

Remember, the ideal Android DS emulator is specifically designed for DS games. If you also plan to play Nintendo 3DS games, you'll need a separate 3DS emulator (we've got recommendations for those too!).

Top Android DS Emulators:

melonDS: The Leading DS Emulator

Currently, melonDS reigns supreme. It's free, open-source, and boasts frequent updates packed with new features and performance improvements.

This emulator provides extensive customization options. Enjoy robust controller support, adaptable to your preferences, and choose between light and dark themes. Adjust resolution settings to strike the perfect balance between performance and visual quality. Built-in Action Replay support simplifies the use of cheats.

Note: The Google Play version is an unofficial port; the most current version is found on GitHub.

DraStic: Optimized for Older Devices

DraStic stands out as an excellent DS emulator for Android. While it's a paid app ($4.99), its value is undeniable. Despite its 2013 release, it remains highly effective.

DraStic revolutionized Android emulation. Most Nintendo DS games run flawlessly, with only a few exceptions. Its compatibility extends to lower-powered devices, a testament to its longevity.

Customization options abound: enhance 3D rendering resolution, utilize save states, adjust speed, reposition the screen, configure controller support, and employ Game Shark codes. However, it lacks multiplayer support (though most DS multiplayer servers are now offline).

EmuBox: The Versatile All-rounder

EmuBox is a free, ad-supported emulator. The presence of ads might be a drawback for some users, and it requires an online connection to function.

Despite these limitations, EmuBox shines with its versatility. It supports ROMs from various consoles beyond the Nintendo DS, including the original PlayStation and Game Boy Advance.