We already published the list of best DS games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best DS RPGs of all time.
With amazing titles available, the DS definitely has a great library of RPGs.
So, if you’re a fan of both the DS and RPGs, 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. Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey
- Release Data: Atlus, 2010
- Genre: Role-Playing » Western-Style
Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey features all the great story and character moments you expect from a game in the franchise.
This version takes advantage of the dual-screen well without being gimmicky or obtrusive.
All in all, it is a satisfying and interesting title.
#24. 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.
#23. Golden Sun: Dark Dawn
- Release Data: Camelot Software Planning/Nintendo, 2010
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
Golden Sun: Dark Dawn is the third title in the franchise, so there are many returning elements to the game.
With the new gameplay element, in addition to the returning mechanics and a brand new story, make this game a must for RPG enthusiasts.
#22. 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.
#21. Etrian Odyssey II: Heroes of Lagaard
- Release Data: Atlus, 2008
- Genre: Role-Playing » Western-Style
Etrian Odyssey II: Heroes of Lagaard is as old school as a modern RPG can get.
While you can only have 5 of your created characters in your party at a time, you can have 30 created characters waiting for you back in town.
In short, it’s a blast from the past, and well worth your time.
#20. Lunar Knights
- Release Data: Kojima Productions/Konami, 2007
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
With so much going on in Lunar Knights, you never get tired of the experience, despite the game’s healthy, 10-hour-plus running time.
Although it may be daunting for those who shy away from a challenge, it’s worth the fight and one of the best games of its kind to appear on the DS.
#19. 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.
#18. Dragon Quest V: Hand of the Heavenly Bride
- Release Data: ArtePiazza/Square Enix, 2009
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
While the gameplay is what you’d expect from a Dragon Quest game, it does add a unique take on the traditional hero’s journey.
The game gives you a chance to pick one of three lucky ladies as your bride and have a family of your own.
In short, if you like Dragon Quest, you have to check it out.
#17. Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin
- Release Data: Konami, 2006
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin is similar to other post Symphony of the Night Castlevania games, but where it stands out is the dual protagonists you control throughout.
Overall, it’s a fun Metroidvania game with plenty of new mechanics that will keep fans of the genre happy.
#16. Final Fantasy IV
- Release Data: Matrix Software/Square Enix, 2008
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
Final Fantasy IV is a classic, and the remake takes that classic and not only improves the graphics but also adds elements that couldn’t be included in the original SNES version.
This is probably the most complete version of Final Fantasy IV available.
#15. 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.
#14. 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.
#13. Radiant Historia
- Release Data: Atlus, 2011
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
The story is compelling, and the timeline changing is a big part of why the game is so fascinating.
The battle system is also an interesting take on grid-based movement, giving you the chance to push enemies into prepared traps among other things.
It’s a wonderfully odd game, and well worth checking out.
#12. Mario & Luigi: Partners in Time
- Release Data: Alphadream Corporation/Nintendo, 2005
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
Mario & Luigi: Partners in Time carry on the wonderful tradition of Mario RPGs.
It’s a blend of traditional RPG elements and puzzle-solving in an isometric overworld.
In conclusion, if you enjoyed any of the Mario RPGs, this one will be just as enjoyable.
#11. Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia
- Release Data: Konami, 2008
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia is set after the end of Symphony of the Night and is directed by the Metroidvania master himself, Koji Igarashi.
This game lives up to the reputation. It has a ton of varied locations, and the character sprite work is gorgeous.
Overall, it’s a great game that is just as strong as the previous entries.
#10. 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.
#9. Might & Magic: Clash of Heroes
- Release Data: Capy Games/Ubisoft, 2009
- Genre: Role-Playing » General
Might & Magic: Clash of Heroes is a hybrid of three distinct gameplay mechanics.
It’s part matching puzzle game, tactical battle, and RPG.
With multiple campaigns and an addictive gameplay loop that is simple to understand but entertaining to master, there is a lot here for RPG fans, strategy fans, and puzzle game fans alike.
#8. 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.
#7. 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.
#6. Dragon Quest IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies
- Release Data: Level 5/Square Enix, 2010
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
Dragon Quest IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies allows an unprecedented amount of character customization than previous entries.
Furthermore, the Dragon Quest franchise always brings a satisfying story and traditional RPG combat so it has something for any RPG fan to enjoy.
#5. The World Ends with You
- Release Data: Jupiter Corporation/Square Enix, 2008
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
Whether you’re a fan of the art style or not, there’s still no denying the game’s impressive ability to create an immersive, alive world on Nintendo’s pocket platform, complete with beautiful and inspired music, matchless art design, and pioneering individuality in gameplay.
Games like this come once in a system’s lifetime, and shouldn’t be ignored.
#4. 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.
#3. Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow
- Release Data: Konami, 2005
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
The tactical soul system adds depth to the Castlevania formula, and you can use the souls you collect from monsters into a level editor that you can compete with your friends for the fastest clear time.
Overall, this is one of the best Castlevania games ever made, so you need to play it.
#2. Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story
- Release Data: Alphadream Corporation/Nintendo, 2009
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
The DS screen is used well, having one screen showing Mario and Luigi’s perspective from inside Bowser, while the other shows the effect of their actions on Bowser himself.
With the unique take on the usual tropes of Mario games, funny dialogue, and interesting gameplay, this is a Mario game that you shouldn’t miss.
#1. Chrono Trigger
- Release Data: TOSE/Square Enix, 2008
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
The DS remake of Chrono Trigger makes its own mark in a few different ways.
One is the touchscreen elements, but what really makes this version stands out is the extra content.
All in all, Chrono Trigger is easily one of the best RPGs of all time, and being able to experience it anywhere is the cherry on top.
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See also: Best GameCube Games & Best Wii Games
Are your favorite games on the list?
Deciding which DS RPG is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!