The Nintendo DS has had its fair share of amazing games, but when it comes to the iconic Zelda series, some titles truly stand out. The DS brought a new dimension to the Zelda games, with innovative touchscreen controls and dual-screen gameplay. In this article, we'll delve into the top 5 best DS Zelda games that have captured the hearts of gamers worldwide.
5. The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks
Released in 2009, Spirit Tracks is an action-adventure game that takes place in a new land, where Link must explore the world, solve puzzles, and battle enemies to save the kingdom. The game's unique feature is the use of the DS's touchscreen to control the train, which serves as Link's primary mode of transportation. While it may not be as highly praised as other Zelda games, Spirit Tracks still offers an engaging experience with its charming characters and innovative gameplay mechanics.
Key Features:
- Innovative train controls using the DS's touchscreen
- A new land to explore, complete with its own history and lore
- Charming characters, including a new partner for Link
4. The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass
Phantom Hourglass, released in 2007, was a launch title for the Nintendo DS and set the bar high for future Zelda games on the console. The game takes place in a new land, where Link must explore the ocean, fight enemies, and solve puzzles to save the world. The game's innovative use of the DS's touchscreen and microphone added a new layer of depth to the gameplay. While some critics found the game's pacing to be a bit slow, Phantom Hourglass remains a beloved title in the Zelda series.
Key Features:
- Innovative use of the DS's touchscreen and microphone
- A new land to explore, complete with its own history and lore
- Engaging characters, including a new partner for Link
3. The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords - Anniversary Edition
Released in 2011, Four Swords - Anniversary Edition is an enhanced version of the classic Game Boy Advance game. The game takes place in a land where four Links must work together to defeat the evil Shadow Link. The game's multiplayer mode, which allows up to four players to play together using local wireless connectivity, is a standout feature. While the game's single-player experience may be a bit lacking, the multiplayer mode makes up for it.
Key Features:
- Enhanced graphics and sound
- Multiplayer mode allows up to four players to play together
- A new challenge, the "Hero's Trial," adds replay value
2. The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons and Oracle of Ages
Released in 2001 for the Game Boy Color, Oracle of Seasons and Oracle of Ages were later re-released on the Nintendo DS in 2010. These games take place in a new land, where Link must explore the world, solve puzzles, and battle enemies to save the kingdom. The games' unique feature is the ability to link the two games together, allowing players to access new content and play through the games in a new way.
Key Features:
- Two games in one, with a unique linking system
- Innovative gameplay mechanics, including a new season-changing system
- Charming characters and a new land to explore
1. The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past - Virtual Console
Released in 2011, A Link to the Past is a Virtual Console re-release of the classic Super Nintendo Entertainment System game. The game takes place in a dark world, where Link must explore the land, solve puzzles, and battle enemies to save the kingdom. The game's innovative gameplay mechanics, including the use of parallel worlds, make it a standout title in the Zelda series.
Key Features:
- A classic Zelda game, re-released on the Nintendo DS
- Innovative gameplay mechanics, including parallel worlds
- Charming characters and a dark, gothic atmosphere
What's your favorite DS Zelda game? Do you agree with our ranking, or do you think another game deserves the top spot? Let us know in the comments!
Which DS Zelda game is the most innovative?
+Phantom Hourglass is often considered the most innovative DS Zelda game, thanks to its use of the DS's touchscreen and microphone.
What is the best multiplayer DS Zelda game?
+Four Swords - Anniversary Edition is the best multiplayer DS Zelda game, thanks to its local wireless connectivity and up to four-player multiplayer mode.
Which DS Zelda game is the most challenging?
+A Link to the Past is often considered the most challenging DS Zelda game, thanks to its complex gameplay mechanics and dark atmosphere.