We already published the list of best DS games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best DS racing games of all time.
With amazing titles available, the DS definitely has a great library of racing games.
So, if you’re a fan of both the DS and 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. 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.
#9. Need for Speed Underground 2
- Release Data: EA Canada/EA Games, 2005
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
Overall, Need for Speed Underground 2 gets the job done.
There’s enough variety here to keep you busy; it delivers a strong sense of speed; and the control, while not perfect, is good enough to keep you coming back.
If you’re a DS owner in need of a good driving game, NFS Underground 2 most definitely fits the bill.
#8. 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.
#7. 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.
#6. 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.
#5. 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.
#4. 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.
#3. Race Driver: Create & Race
- Release Data: Firebrand Games/Codemasters, 2007
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
As long as you don’t expect a shrunken-down console-racing simulation, you’ll find a lot to like in Race Driver: Create & Race.
It’s obvious that a lot of care went into the game; it’s not some quick way to cash in on an established franchise.
There’s no shortage of ways to stay occupied and, most importantly, the racing is exciting and fun.
#2. GRID
- Release Data: Firebrand Games/Codemasters, 2008
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
The single-player game takes six to eight hours to complete, depending on how hard you chase after the medals.
Not only that, the track creator also extends the replay value exponentially.
Overall, with tons of variety, great multiplayer, and hours of replay value, Grid is a handheld port worthy of any racing fan’s time.
#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 racing game is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!
