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Can I Download Games onto My DS? A Comprehensive Guide

Yes, you can download games onto certain versions of the Nintendo DS family of systems, but with some important caveats. The original Nintendo DS and DS Lite do not directly support downloading games in the way that later systems do. However, the Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo 2DS lines offer digital downloads through the now-closed Nintendo eShop. This article delves deep into the intricacies of downloading games on various DS systems, exploring the nuances, limitations, and alternatives.

Understanding DS Download Capabilities

The initial Nintendo DS models, released in 2004 and 2006, respectively, were primarily designed to play physical game cartridges. They were not built with the capability to download games directly over the internet. These systems focused on local multiplayer through Download Play, which allowed players with only one copy of a game to play with others wirelessly. This feature is a cornerstone of DS gaming, but it’s not the same as downloading a full game.

The situation is quite different with the Nintendo 3DS family, released starting in 2011. These systems introduced a digital marketplace called the Nintendo eShop, allowing users to purchase and download games directly to their console. This functionality includes titles exclusive to the eShop, such as Virtual Console games (classic titles from older consoles), as well as other downloadable software.

How Download Play Works

Before discussing the eShop, it’s important to clarify Download Play. This feature, found across most DS models, allows for limited, temporary sharing of game content. Specifically:

Multiplayer Gaming: If one player has a compatible game, they can share a small portion of the game’s data with other DS systems nearby, allowing for multiplayer sessions without each player owning a copy of the game.
Demos: Some games offered downloadable demos via Download Play, providing a sample of the full game experience.

It’s crucial to note that these downloaded components are not permanent. They are stored in the DS system’s RAM and are cleared when the system is turned off. It is not a method of permanently adding games to your device.

The Nintendo eShop and Digital Downloads

The Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo 2DS systems feature the ability to download games directly from the Nintendo eShop. This service allowed users to purchase digital titles using funds added to their account via credit cards, prepaid cards, or other methods. Key features of the eShop included:

Digital Games: Access to a wide library of digital-only games, including titles that were never released physically.
Virtual Console: Re-releases of classic games from the NES, Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and other vintage Nintendo platforms.
Downloadable Content (DLC): Add-ons and expansions for some retail games, sold as additional downloads.

The eShop Closure and Its Implications

Unfortunately, the Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U closed on March 27, 2023. This means you can no longer purchase or download new games from the eShop, redeem codes, or add funds. However, there are still a few things you can do:

Redownload Previously Purchased Games: If you purchased games before the eShop closure, you can still redownload them at no cost. This is a crucial aspect for users with a backlog of eShop games.
System Transfers: You can still transfer your eShop purchases to a new or different 3DS/2DS console through the system transfer process. This is how you would move your games if you upgraded your system or replaced it.

Where Are Downloaded Games Stored?

Downloaded software on the Nintendo 3DS/2DS is stored on the system’s SD card. The SD card is essential for saving digital games and other software and is a critical component for those who own digital game libraries.

SD Card Capacity: The Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo 3DS XL, and Nintendo 2DS systems are compatible with SD cards up to 2 GB in size, and SDHC cards of 4 GB and larger up to 32 GB.
Nintendo DSiWare: Downloadable titles for the Nintendo DSi (not 3DS) are stored directly on the system memory and cannot be played from the SD card. This creates a distinction in how games are stored based on their system of origin.

Alternative Methods and Considerations

Since the eShop is now closed, the process of obtaining new games for your Nintendo 3DS/2DS has changed. Here are a few considerations:

Physical Game Cartridges: The primary way to acquire new games is by purchasing physical game cartridges. These are readily available both new and used through various retailers and online markets.
Modded Systems: Some users explore using a modded system to install and play games. This process is not supported by Nintendo, and it comes with inherent risks.
Used Games and Bundles: Many vendors offer used DS systems with pre-installed games in bundles. This can be a great way to build your DS game library.

Key Takeaways

The original Nintendo DS and DS Lite cannot download full games over the internet, relying instead on physical cartridges and Download Play.
The Nintendo 3DS and 2DS introduced the eShop, allowing for digital game downloads but now closed to new purchases.
Redownloading purchased games is still possible on the 3DS/2DS.
System transfer can move purchased games to other devices in the same family.
Physical game cartridges are the current primary source for new DS games.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about downloading games on your DS system, providing clarity on various issues:

Can I download games on my original Nintendo DS or DS Lite? No. The original Nintendo DS and DS Lite cannot download games in the same way as the 3DS/2DS. They are designed to use physical game cartridges and rely on Download Play for temporary multiplayer sessions.
Is the Nintendo eShop still available on the 3DS? No, the Nintendo eShop for the 3DS and Wii U closed permanently on March 27, 2023. You can no longer buy or download new games, demos, or redeem codes.
Can I still redownload games I previously purchased from the eShop? Yes, you can still redownload games you purchased from the eShop at no cost on your Nintendo 3DS or 2DS console.
What happens if I delete a game purchased from the eShop? Once deleted, Nintendo eShop purchases can be redownloaded at no cost. You will need to visit the eShop to initiate the download.
How do I transfer my digital eShop games to a new 3DS/2DS? You can transfer your games through a system transfer process. Locate the “System Transfer” option under System Settings and follow the on-screen prompts.
Can I put 3DS ROMs on my SD card? While technically possible through modifications, this process is not supported by Nintendo, and may require third-party software like GodMode9.
What SD card size does the 3DS support? The Nintendo 3DS, 3DS XL, and 2DS systems are compatible with SD cards up to 2 GB in size, and SDHC cards of 4 GB and larger up to 32 GB in size.
Can I use a Switch game on my DS? No. Nintendo Switch games are not compatible with the DS family of consoles, as they are completely different systems.
Can I use a DS game in a 3DS? Yes, the 3DS is backwards compatible and can play most DS games.
Are DS games region-locked? All Nintendo handhelds except both Nintendo DSi models and the Nintendo 3DS are fully region-free. In the case of the former, only the physical and digital games that cannot be played on earlier DS models are region-locked.
What is Download Play? Download Play is a feature that allows multiple DS systems to connect wirelessly for multiplayer gameplay, even if only one person owns a copy of the game.
Can I play Game Boy games on my DS? The Nintendo DS and DS Lite cannot directly play Game Boy games due to missing hardware components.
How long do DS cartridges last? DS game cartridges can last for 20-50 years with proper care, making them highly durable.
What happens if I put a 3DS game into a DS? 3DS game cartridges have a tab that physically prevents them from being inserted into a standard DS or DS Lite.
What is Nintendo’s justification for shutting down the eShop? Nintendo stated that the closure was a “natural life cycle” for a product line that was becoming less used by consumers.

By understanding the nuances of the DS and 3DS family of systems, users can navigate the options for game ownership and play, even after the eShop closure. Physical games, used bundles, and system transfers remain key methods of enjoying the extensive DS library.

Can I download games onto my DS?