We already published the list of best DS games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best DS monster catching games of all time.
With amazing titles available, the DS definitely has a great library of monster catching games.
So, if you’re a fan of both the DS and monster catching 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. Dragon Quest Monsters: Joker 2
- Release Data: TOSE/Square Enix, 2011
- Genre: Role-Playing » Trainer
With an almost limitless number of monster and skill variations, you’ll find plenty to do even after the credits roll.
And while you can’t help but wish the adventure mode was designed with a little more ambition, it’s difficult to fault given the nearly infinite amount of replay value the tournament aspects bring to the table.
#9. Pokemon White Version 2
- Release Data: Game Freak/Nintendo, 2012
- Genre: Role-Playing » Trainer
If you’re seeking a deep, portable RPG, get this game, as it’s one of the crown jewels of the genre on the DS hardware.
And finally, if you’ve played Pokémon before and want to experience the richest experience the series has to offer – look no further than this game.
#8. Pokemon Black Version 2
- Release Data: Game Freak/Nintendo, 2012
- Genre: Role-Playing » Trainer
The gameplay for Pokemon Black Version 2 are the same as the White Version, but the details and certain aesthetics are swapped to reflect the theme of opposites in this entry.
Also, you’ll either need both copies of Black and White Version 2 or have a friend who’s willing to trade one of the most powerful Pokemon in the game.
#7. Pokemon Platinum Version
- Release Data: Game Freak/Nintendo, 2009
- Genre: Role-Playing » Trainer
Platinum doesn’t add anything new to the single-player gameplay which is a shame, however the multiplayer options are quite interesting and really centers on trading, battles and the like.
It’s definitely a step in the right direction for the franchise, shame about the graphics though.
#6. Pokemon Diamond Version
- Release Data: Game Freak/Nintendo, 2007
- Genre: Role-Playing » Trainer
Pokemon Diamond Version for the DS makes a bunch of upgrades to the original Game Boy Advance version.
The second screen works as a calculator, clock, map and other handy things.
The refined gameplay and the ability to move Pokemon from GBA versions to the DS make this one of the most fun iterations of the game.
#5. Pokemon Pearl Version
- Release Data: Game Freak/Nintendo, 2007
- Genre: Role-Playing » Trainer
Pokemon Pearl Version boasts the same improvements as the Diamond Version, including the ability to move pokemon from previous GBA games into your DS world.
And the only way to get both legendary Pokemons is to own both versions or have an incredibly generous friend willing to trade a legendary Pokemon.
However, it’s probably easier to just get both versions though.
#4. Pokemon Black Version
- Release Data: Game Freak/Nintendo, 2011
- Genre: Role-Playing » Trainer
Pokemon Black Version has brought a bunch of improvements to the series and still has the addictive gameplay that made Pokemon a household name.
The wireless capabilities of the DS is also a big design focus, and the way you can interact with other players had been enhanced greatly.
#3. Pokemon White Version
- Release Data: Game Freak/Nintendo, 2011
- Genre: Role-Playing » Trainer
Pokemon White Version gives you access to different pokemon to catch, as well as its own legendaries.
It’s basically just as awesome as Black, with all its animated pokemon sprites, seasonal changes and beefed up multiplayer mode.
It makes it easier than ever to try and fill out your Pokedex through trade, but you know you want both versions.
#2. Pokemon HeartGold Version
- Release Data: Game Freak/Nintendo, 2010
- Genre: Role-Playing » Trainer
The basics are the same, but this time Pokemon HeartGold Version is the bigger, better version of Pokemon Gold.
Your lead Pokemon will follow you around on the map screen so you can show it off, talk to it, and have it pick up free stuff for you.
#1. Pokemon SoulSilver Version
- Release Data: Game Freak/Nintendo, 2010
- Genre: Role-Playing » Trainer
It’s the same Pokemon you know and love.
While there isn’t any great deviation from the other game, Pokemon SoulSilver Version still allows you to catch a different set of Pokemon.
If you want to catch them all, you need to catch this game.
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See also: Best GameCube Games & Best Wii Games
Are your favorite games on the list?
Deciding which DS monster catching game is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!