We already published the list of best DS games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best DS arcade racing games of all time.
With amazing titles available, the DS definitely has a great library of arcade racing games.
So, if you’re a fan of both the DS and arcade racing 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.
#10. Micro Machines V4
- Release Data: Supersonic Software/Codemasters, 2007
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
The sheer number of cars and tracks in Micro Machines V4 is impressive and some of the tracks are cleverly designed and are genuinely interesting.
All in all, there’s some fun in this game, but if you want to see what made Micro Machines such a strong franchise, look into its past renditions.
#9. Asphalt: Urban GT
- Release Data: Gameloft, 2004
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
It doesn’t really take great advantage of many of the features that make the DS unique, but Asphalt: Urban GT is still fundamentally an enjoyable arcade-style racer, regardless of the platform.
The gameplay is fast and accessible, and there’s enough variety in both the single and multiplayer modes that you could spend a lot of time with the game.
#8. Cartoon Network Racing
- Release Data: Firebrand Games/The Game Factory, 2006
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
With four difficulty levels, plenty of courses, two mini-games, a time trial mode and a versus mode so that you can play with a friend, Cartoon Network Racing is a surprisingly solid investment for any racing fan looking for a great arcade racer on the DS.
#7. Ridge Racer DS
- Release Data: Nintendo Software Technology/Namco, 2004
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
Ridge Racer DS is a straight port of Ridge Racer 64.
The same tracks and cars from the N64 game are here, with a few changes in the names and paint schemes of some cars.
If you can ignore the flaws, you’ll get some fun out of this game, especially if you can take advantage of the multiplayer.
#6. MySims Racing
- Release Data: EA Games, 2009
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
Overall, MySims Racing is a surprisingly tight game with great production values and a lot of heart, and it can’t be recommended highly enough for the younger gamers.
There may not be enough content to fulfill older gamers, but it’s certainly a fun multiplayer game.
If Mario Kart DS isn’t your thing, you might want to try MySims Racing.
#5. Diddy Kong Racing DS
- Release Data: Rare Ltd./Nintendo, 2007
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Other
Despite all of the negative points to the game, the charm that made the original a favorite to many still shines through.
As long as you don’t start up the game expecting Mario Kart DS, you’ll get lots of fun out of Diddy Kong Racing DS.
#4. Speed Racer
- Release Data: Virtuos/Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, 2008
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Futuristic
Speed Racer is surprisingly good.
It blends fun gameplay with superb graphics.
Its biggest problem is that there isn’t more to play; the single player can be conquered in a fairly short period of time, and the lack of a story means there isn’t a whole lot of pay-off for doing so.
#3. TrackMania DS
- Release Data: Firebrand Games/Focus Home Interactive, 2009
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
TrackMania DS succeeds on certain levels, retaining the pick-up-and-play charm of the PC version and providing a ton of tracks and challenges for players to tackle.
Trackmania fans will find a fair amount to like here, as long as they realize that the package comes with some notable limitations.
#2. Sonic & Sega All-Stars Racing
- Release Data: Sumo Digital/Sega, 2010
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
Sonic & Sega All-Stars Racing is a fun, entertaining, and enjoyable title that’s likely to be overlooked by Mario Kart DS, but for those looking for a game that plays similarly to Nintendo’s own creation, Sonic & Sega All-Stars Racing is the way to go.
#1. Mario Kart DS
- Release Data: Nintendo, 2005
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Automobile
The fun and addictive gameplay of Mario Kart makes its debut on the Nintendo DS in style.
Players can pick from a wide variety of modes, including Grand Prix mode, which features eight different cups to compete for.
You can even race against other players across the globe using the DS’ online multiplayer connectivity.
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See also: Best GameCube Games & Best Wii Games
Are your favorite games on the list?
Deciding which DS arcade racing game is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!