Introduction: The Beginning of Nintendo's Dual-Screen Era
On November 21, 2004, Nintendo introduced the original Nintendo DS in North America, marking the beginning of a revolutionary era in handheld gaming.
The console, officially designated NTR-001, featured two screens, a touchscreen, a built-in microphone, wireless multiplayer capabilities, and compatibility with Game Boy Advance cartridges.
Unlike earlier Nintendo handhelds, the DS encouraged developers to experiment with touch controls, dual-screen gameplay, and entirely new gaming experiences.
The original DS arrived in Japan on December 2, 2004, with a different selection of launch games.
So which Nintendo DS games were available when the console first appeared?
Original Nintendo DS Launch Games in North America
Nintendo's November 2004 launch included several major games, alongside additional titles arriving during the first few weeks.
1. Super Mario 64 DS
November 21, 2004 • 3D platformer
The flagship Nintendo DS launch game reimagined the Nintendo 64 classic with additional playable characters, new stars, and touchscreen minigames.
Players could control Mario, Luigi, Yoshi, and Wario while exploring Princess Peach's castle.
2. Spider-Man 2
November 2004 • Action platformer
Based on the Spider-Man film, this game featured side-scrolling combat and superhero missions.
It demonstrated how traditional action gameplay could be adapted to Nintendo's dual-screen hardware.
3. Feel the Magic: XY/XX
November 2004 • Touchscreen minigames
Developed by Sonic Team, Feel the Magic featured unusual minigames that used the touchscreen and microphone.
Its distinctive visual style made it an early showcase for the Nintendo DS's unconventional controls.
4. Madden NFL 2005
November 2004 • American football
Madden NFL 2005 brought American football to Nintendo's new handheld, offering a familiar sports experience for players exploring the DS.
5. The Urbz: Sims in the City
November 2004 • Life simulation
The Urbz offered character customization, social interactions, and urban adventures, providing a different experience from the DS's action-focused launch titles.
Other games in Nintendo's North American launch-window lineup included Asphalt: Urban GT, Mr. Driller: Drill Spirits, Ridge Racer DS, Rayman DS, Ping Pals, and Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2005.
Some of these arrived after November 21 rather than on the exact console launch date.
What Games Launched With the Nintendo DS in Japan?
When the original DS arrived in Japan on December 2, 2004, its launch lineup included 12 games.
|
Japanese launch game |
Genre |
|---|---|
|
Super Mario 64 DS |
3D platformer |
|
Pokémon Dash |
Racing |
|
WarioWare: Touched! |
Minigames |
|
Daigasso! Band Brothers |
Music / rhythm |
|
Polarium |
Puzzle |
|
Feel the Magic: XY/XX |
Touchscreen minigames |
|
Mr. Driller: Drill Spirits |
Puzzle action |
|
Zoo Keeper |
Match-three puzzle |
|
The Urbz: Sims in the City |
Life simulation |
|
Kenshuui Tendo Dokuta |
Medical adventure |
|
Mahjong Taikai |
Mahjong |
|
Cool 104 Joker & Setline |
Card / puzzle |
This selection demonstrated Nintendo's intention to reach audiences beyond traditional action-game fans.
Five Japanese DS Launch Games Every Collector Should Know
1. Pokémon Dash
A Pokémon-themed racing game featuring Pikachu and touchscreen movement. It was one of Japan's original DS launch titles but did not arrive in North America until 2005.
A collection of rapid-fire minigames that showcased touchscreen interaction and the DS microphone.
A music game that used the DS buttons and dual screens for instrument-based rhythm gameplay. Its original Japanese release is an interesting part of the console's history.
4. Polarium
A touchscreen puzzle game requiring players to draw continuous lines to change tile colors and clear patterns.
5. Zoo Keeper
A colorful match-three puzzle game that demonstrated how naturally touchscreen controls could work with familiar arcade mechanics.
What Was Included With the Original Nintendo DS?
The original Nintendo DS included built-in PictoChat software, which allowed nearby users to exchange handwritten messages and drawings over local wireless communication.
North American systems also came with Metroid Prime Hunters: First Hunt, a playable demonstration of the upcoming first-person action game.
The full Metroid Prime Hunters game was released later, in 2006, and should not be confused with the 2004 demo.
PictoChat was built into the system rather than sold as a separate retail game.
Which Original Nintendo DS Launch Game Is Best to Play in 2026?
For most players, Super Mario 64 DS is the strongest recommendation. Its expanded adventure, playable characters, and minigames provide substantial entertainment.
WarioWare: Touched! is excellent for quick gaming sessions, while Pokémon Dash is an interesting historical title for Pokémon collectors.
Feel the Magic: XY/XX is especially noteworthy because it captures Nintendo's early experimentation with touchscreen gameplay.
Why Are Original DS Launch Games Collectible?
The first Nintendo DS games represent the beginning of Nintendo's dual-screen handheld generation.
Collectors may seek original 2004 Japanese releases, first-print packaging, complete cases, instruction manuals, and promotional editions.
Japanese launch games such as Daigasso! Band Brothers and Polarium are particularly interesting for enthusiasts documenting the console's earliest software library.
However, launch status does not automatically make a game rare. Condition, region, edition, and completeness all affect collector interest.
Are Japanese Nintendo DS Games Region-Locked?
Most original Nintendo DS game cartridges are region-free and can be played on standard Nintendo DS and DS Lite consoles from other regions.
However, language support varies by game, and some Japan-exclusive releases may be difficult to navigate without Japanese-language knowledge.
The later Nintendo DSi introduced additional region restrictions for certain DSi-specific software, so collectors should distinguish original DS cartridges from DSi-enhanced or DSi-exclusive titles.
Common Mistakes When Collecting Early DS Games
One common mistake is confusing the original Nintendo DS with the later DS Lite, released in 2006.
Another is assuming that all 2004 launch-window titles were available on the exact launch date.
Collectors should also check cartridge labels, product codes, case artwork, manuals, and contact pins.
For complete collections, original packaging and documentation can be especially important.
Where to Buy Original Nintendo DS Games in the UAE
For gamers searching for original Nintendo DS games in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and across the UAE,
Located in Al Karama, Dubai, Retros focuses on classic Nintendo handhelds, original physical games, accessories, and collectible editions.
Customers can explore available Nintendo DS consoles and cartridges online or visit the physical store.
Individual titles and regional editions are subject to availability.
Final Verdict: Which Games Were Released With the Original Nintendo DS?
When Nintendo launched the original DS in North America on November 21, 2004, Super Mario 64 DS was its flagship title, accompanied by a selection of action, sports, and experimental games.
Japan's December 2 launch introduced 12 games, including Pokémon Dash, WarioWare: Touched!, and Daigasso! Band Brothers.
Together, these early titles demonstrated the possibilities of dual-screen gaming and helped establish one of Nintendo's most successful handheld generations.
Rediscover the original Nintendo DS at Retros.ae — Relive Your Best Memories.
