We already published the list of best DS games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best DS action games of all time.
With amazing titles available, the DS definitely has a great library of action games.
So, if you’re a fan of both the DS and action games, there’s a chance you’ll like this list.
And some of you may already know some of the games mentioned in this list.
#25. AlphaBounce
- Release Data: Mad Monkey Studio/Motion Twin, 2010
- Genre: Action » General
While game after game of Arkanoid can get a little tiresome, there is enough variety in the power-ups and upgrades you find to keep it fresh
In short, AlphaBounce offers far more content than any other iteration of the game, and will keep you entertained far longer, especially with the customizable envelopes and balls.
#24. Retro Game Challenge
- Release Data: Indies Zero/Bandai Namco Games, 2009
- Genre: Action » General
If you’re a fan of retro gaming and can manage to wade through the filler, Retro Game Challenge provides ample challenge and enjoyment.
However, it only appeals to a niche audience, but that audience will find it to be very rewarding.
#23. Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Mini-Land Mayhem
- Release Data: Nintendo Software Technology/Nintendo, 2010
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
Lots of gameplay, great graphics, a wonderful soundtrack and flawless touchscreen controls make Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Mini-Land Mayhem! a worthy addition to an often-overlooked franchise.
While the game’s real-time puzzle element may not appeal to everybody, those who do take the time to become familiar with it will appreciate its unique and challenging approach.
#22. Sonic Rush Adventure
- Release Data: Dimps Corporation/Sega, 2007
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
Overall, Sonic Rush Adventure is full of fun, fast-paced levels.
The main mode of the game is a little short, and some poor game structure choices dampen the playability a bit, but that doesn’t erase the fact that the game includes some of the best platforming experiences available.
#21. Metroid Prime Pinball
- Release Data: Fuse Games Limited/Nintendo, 2005
- Genre: Action » Pinball
This is a fun, simple game that you can keep coming back to.
It’s a great way to kill a few minutes if you’re playing games on the go, but the tables in Metroid Prime Pinball are also genuinely challenging enough that it’s tempting to want to keep pushing your highest score even higher.
#20. Monster Tale
- Release Data: DreamRift/Majesco, 2011
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
This game mixes the standard side scrolling action genre with the popular virtual pet genre.
You’ll progress through various levels, navigating the obstacles and and fighting enemies.
And by caring for your virtual pet monsters, you can gain new powers and abilities to make the side scrolling levels even more fun.
#19. Bangai-O Spirits
- Release Data: Treasure/ESP Software, 2008
- Genre: Action » Shooter » Shoot-‘Em-Up » Vertical
If blasting apart enemies with giant robots sounds like your cup of tea, then look no further than Bangai-O Spirits.
After completing the short tutorial missions, you’ll have to shoot your way through over 160 levels full of enemies.
In addition to the crazy amount of levels included, this game also has a level editor which was revolutionary for its time.
#18. Bleach: Dark Souls
- Release Data: Treasure/Sega, 2008
- Genre: Action » Fighting » 2D
Bleach: Dark Souls may not completely innovate on its predecessor.
However, more finely-tuned balance, along with a ton of new cards, abilities, and characters make this game a worthy game for veterans, as well as newbies.
Even taking into account other fighters and Game Boy Advance compatibility, this is arguably one of the best DS fighting games.
#17. Yoshi’s Island DS
- Release Data: Artoon/Nintendo, 2006
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
This game is separated into worlds and levels, and while you can progress by simply finishing the level, you’ll want to find all the hidden collectibles!
Although it might seem simple at first, Yoshi’s Island DS allows players to perform very precise movements with Yoshi, making it a fun but challenging game.
#16. N+
- Release Data: SilverBirch Studios/Atari SA, 2008
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
This classic game sees players as a nameless ninja, dashing and jump through incredibly dangerous levels.
The basic artwork style gives the game a very clean look, which makes its brutal difficulty feel fair and rewarding.
Furthermore, the game features a crazy amount of levels, but if that’s not enough, you can even create your own using the level editor.
#15. Henry Hatsworth in the Puzzling Adventure
- Release Data: EA Tiburon/Electronic Arts, 2009
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
It’s not every day a game like Henry Hatsworth in the Puzzling Adventure comes along.
Featuring a very original, robust, and polished experience, gamers of all ages should at least try the game.
It might not be for everyone, but for those who put some effort, they’ll be rewarded with one of the best titles on the Nintendo DS.
#14. Space Invaders Extreme 2
- Release Data: Taito Corporation, 2009
- Genre: Action » Shooter » Shoot-‘Em-Up » Vertical
Sure, it’s a bit of a letdown that Space Invaders Extreme 2 doesn’t do much that’s different from the first game in the series.
However, if you’ve never had the opportunity to experience the first Space Invaders Extreme, this sequel is a good way to kill time.
#13. Sonic Rush
- Release Data: Dimps Corporation/Sega, 2005
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
Sonic Rush really brings Sonic back into the 21st century in style.
Anyone interested in knowing what made the Sonic vs. Mario debates so explosive in the past should also give this a try.
Sonic Rush sums up everything that’s great about Sonic, which is speed.
#12. Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Minis March Again!
- Release Data: Nintendo, 2009
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
All around Minis March Again! is a very competent, fun, and engaging package.
Just think of all the possible ways you can drive your friends up the wall with your devious designs!
In the end, it is full of fun and strategy and has tons of replayability, even without the level editing and sharing.
#11. Rhythm Heaven
- Release Data: Nintendo, 2009
- Genre: Action » Rhythm » Music
Rhythm Heaven is the epitome of simple game design, yet it never feels half-hearted in any regard.
It’s bound to raise some eyebrows due to its strange sense of humor and a bare bones presentation, but it still stands as one of the finest titles to grace the Nintendo DS.
#10. Bleach: The Blade of Fate
- Release Data: Treasure/Sega, 2007
- Genre: Action » Fighting » 2D
The Blade of Fate is not only the best Bleach game but it’s also the best DS fighting game.
The game is loyal to the anime and pays homage to classic 2D fighting games all in one neat portable package.
Even if you’re not a Bleach fan, this is the DS game fighting enthusiasts should not miss at all.
#9. Metroid Prime: Hunters
- Release Data: Nintendo Software Technology/Nintendo, 2006
- Genre: Action » Shooter » First-Person » Arcade
Despite some caveats, Metroid Prime: Hunters is an excellent multiplayer game and easy to recommend to anyone who enjoys FPS action.
The single-player is also well worth a playthrough, despite its limitations, if only to take in the story and unlock all the hunters for multiplayer action.
#8. Contra 4
- Release Data: WayForward/Konami, 2007
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
Contra 4 isn’t for everyone.
The difficulty level, even when set to ‘Easy’, is quite frankly on the insane side.
To those of you that may not have played a Contra game before, by all means pick this up if the concept intrigues you.
#7. Kirby Mass Attack
- Release Data: HAL Labs/Nintendo, 2011
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
Mass Attack doesn’t stray from the colorful, kid-friendly presentation and sweet platforming that the Kirby franchise is known for, but substantial innovation in the way you play it sets the game apart from its predecessors.
The stylus-only controls are a welcome addition, and a terrific balance of familiarity and freshness is what makes this cheerful experience so addictive.
#6. Space Invaders Extreme
- Release Data: Taito Corporation, 2008
- Genre: Action » Shooter » Shoot-‘Em-Up » Vertical
Space Invaders Extreme is a very good example of how to update a classic game.
The gameplay has been improved, and multiplayer adds a whole new dynamic to the experience.
Basically, the game is right for anyone who enjoys fast-paced, arcade-style shooters with a retro twist.
#5. Shantae: Risky’s Revenge
- Release Data: WayForward, 2010
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
The Shantae games are always great for some fun side-scrolling action.
This game focuses on animal transformations, allowing Shantae to access new areas.
Overall, the platforming feels great, and there’s a great balance of difficulty that provides a fun challenge.
#4. Super Mario 64 DS
- Release Data: Nintendo, 2004
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 3D
Widely considered one of the best games ever made, Super Mario 64 needs little introduction.
Instead of just controlling Mario, this DS remake lets you play through the game with a variety of characters.
In addition to new characters, there are also 30 new star objectives as well as bonus mini-games.
#3. Kirby: Canvas Curse
- Release Data: HAL Labs/Nintendo, 2005
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
In this game, instead of using the directional pad to control Kirby, players use the stylus to draw ramps and lines to move Kirby around.
The unique control style and fun painting visuals makes this a refreshing Kirby adventure that is tons of fun to play!
#2. Elite Beat Agents
- Release Data: iNiS/Nintendo, 2006
- Genre: Action » Rhythm » Music
This is one of the quirkiest and wackiest games available on the DS.
You play as a member of the Elite Beat Agents; secret government agents who help people by showing off their dance moves.
Each level features the agents trying to help someone in need by dancing, and you help them by tapping your screen along to the music.
#1. New Super Mario Bros.
- Release Data: Nintendo, 2006
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
Like the original Super Mario Bros., this side-scrolling action game has players traversing eight different worlds to save the Princess.
However, this game updates Mario’s moves and abilities, as well as introducing new power ups and all new levels.
Whether you’re a new fan or an old fan, this is a fun take on the classic formula.
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See also: Best GameCube Games & Best Wii Games
Are your favorite games on the list?
Deciding which DS action game is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!