We already published the list of best DS games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best DS turn-based strategy games of all time.
With amazing titles available, the DS definitely has a great library of turn-based strategy games.
So, if you’re a fan of both the DS and turn-based strategy 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. Marvel Trading Card Game
- Release Data: 1st Playable Productions/Konami, 2007
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Card Battle
With its good implementation of the well-known Vs. System, Marvel Trading Card Game will make those who’ve already got a taste for trading card games quite happy, and it makes pretty good use of the Marvel license on top of that.
#24. Worms: Open Warfare
- Release Data: Team 17/THQ, 2006
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Artillery
In the end, while Worms: Open Warfare maintains the humor and addictive gameplay of the series, it really is only worthwhile for multiplayer on the road.
In the end, only those who have never played a Worms game may very likely succumb to the charm of the series.
#23. Battles of Prince of Persia
- Release Data: Ubisoft Montreal/Ubisoft, 2005
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Card Battle
Battles of Prince of Persia is actually worth a look if you’re familiar with turn-based strategy games.
The modest presentation and steep learning curve in the game may be a turnoff for some people, but if you can get past those flaws, there’s a worthwhile game underneath the sometimes ugly and intimidating exterior.
#22. Yu-Gi-Oh! GX: Spirit Caller
- Release Data: Konami, 2007
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Card Battle
If you’re a Yu-Gi-Oh fan, you’re probably going to get Yu-Gi-Oh! GX Spirit Caller no matter what.
However, be prepared for a massive amount of grinding in order to unlock all of those cards, as well as a confusing interface and poor game manual.
#21. Panzer Tactics DS
- Release Data: Sproing/Conspiracy Entertainment, 2007
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Tactics
In conclusion, Panzer Tactics DS is a sturdy turn-based game for the Nintendo DS that uses real-world history in this deadly war.
With a variety of different units and ways of completing the title, this title is definitely for the strategy fans but just be warned that the graphics are a little mediocre.
#20. Luminous Arc
- Release Data: Imageepoch/Marvelous Entertainment, 2007
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Tactics
Luminous Arc isn’t revolutionary and the tale lacks a bit of depth, but the great pacing and enjoyable gameplay cover up some of those faults.
If you like turn-based strategy games and don’t mind going through the usual Japanese fantasy storyline, certainly give Luminous Arc a look.
#19. Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D’s Stardust Accelerator: World Championship 2009
- Release Data: Konami, 2009
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Card Battle
Stardust Accelerator is one of those games that, in the hands of the right player, will last them an incredibly long time.
There are around 3,000 different cards to collect, dozens of opponents to challenge, a lengthy story that pulls no punches in length or difficulty, and an in-depth deck creation mode.
#18. Rondo of Swords
- Release Data: Success, 2008
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » General
In short, it’s simple, visually basic, but very difficult and rewarding as well.
It isn’t Fire Emblem, and it isn’t Final Fantasy Tactics.
It’s Rondo of Swords: A simple, challenging, entertaining turn-based strategy that dares to be different, and succeeds despite its flaws.
#17. Luminous Arc 2
- Release Data: Imageepoch/Marvelous Entertainment, 2008
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Tactics
In this game, the combat feel compact and streamlined, there is no complication whatsoever.
The soundtrack in this game is composed by Yasunori Mitsuda, a quality guaranteed when combined with excellent voice acting.
Luminous Arc 2 is an example of golden age RPG game with its anime-style graphic, beautiful characters and interesting gameplay.
#16. Yu-Gi-Oh! Nightmare Troubadour
- Release Data: Konami, 2005
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Card Battle
The monster summoning animation looks gorgeous, thanks to the dual screen.
The adventure mode is pretty challenging as you fight against a wide type of deck and need you to tinker your deck every battle.
Yu-Gi-Oh! Nightmare Troubadour hands down is the best handheld Yu-Gi-Oh experience, perfect for the original series fans to relish some old memory.
#15. Atelier Annie: Alchemists of Sera Island
- Release Data: Gust, 2009
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » General
The quirky dialogues between characters will accompany you along with the story.
And there are seven different endings to the game, which add replayability.
Basically, Atelier Annie: Alchemists of Sera Island is a pleasant surprise in the sea of monotone JRPG games, with its charming lazy girl as the main character.
#14. Drone Tactics
- Release Data: Success, 2008
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » General
The graphic is quite impressive as you can watches as your insectoid mech battle it out in the battleground.
To summarize, Drone Tactics is the dumbed down version of Advanced Wars.
The cartoonish theme of insect battle with the light and fun tactical mechanic approach, making this game perfect for casual or kids gamer.
#13. Front Mission
- Release Data: Square Enix, 2007
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Tactics
The mission is challenging as you need to cater your mech to the missions ahead, a mech with bad loadout meaning you lose the battle.
Front Mission is an alternative if you like strategy games and robot fighting, and awesome customizable robots with diverse weapon choices is a big yes for a mech RPG strategy game.
#12. Valkyrie Profile: Covenant of the Plume
- Release Data: Tri-Ace/Square Enix, 2009
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Tactics
In this game, there is no correct way to take on a mission, you can do anything your brain can think off.
Overall, Valkyrie Profile: Covenant of the Plume is a real strategy game with levels that are difficult but always doable, and definitely a worthy addition to your DS library.
#11. Age of Empires: The Age of Kings
- Release Data: Backbone Entertainment/Majesco, 2006
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » General
The campaign is lengthy and there are tons of replayability value as you try every civilization and playstyle available.
All in all, Age of Empires: The Age of Kings is a brilliant strategy game, although a bit different from the PC version, the DS version still prove to be a solid choice for a DS strategy game.
#10. Worms: Open Warfare 2
- Release Data: Team 17/THQ, 2007
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Artillery
Take some time to learn the ropes of all weapons and watch as you blow your opponents in the face.
And with the humorous antiques and jabbers thrown between worms also make this game feels lighthearted.
Worms: Open Warfare 2 is what Worms game should’ve been all along, addictive and perfectly paced gameplay with tons of customization options.
#9. Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor 2
- Release Data: Atlus, 2012
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Tactics
One of the game strongest points is the relatable story and struggle of the protagonist.
And the branching storyline ensures you got different experience every time you replay the game.
Overall, with more content, more demons and more skils, Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor 2 is an excellent game if you like the predecessor.
#8. Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon
- Release Data: Intelligent Systems/Nintendo, 2009
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Tactics
Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon doesn’t offer a revolutionary experience, but it is a highly polished and well-balanced example of strategy gaming.
The series fans may be disappointed at the lack of new features, but this is still one of the strongest turn-based strategy experiences on the DS.
#7. Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift
- Release Data: Square Enix, 2008
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Tactics
Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift offers a surprising amount of depth, as highlighted by its impressive number of quests and skills, real-time area auctions, clan management, and unlockables.
All in all, those enamored with Tactics Advance will likely enjoy it.
#6. Sid Meier’s Civilization Revolution
- Release Data: Firaxis Games/2K Games, 2008
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » General
Played against human or AI opponents, Civilization Revolution is a great game that will let you plumb different strategic depths each time you play.
It’s incredibly easy to get engrossed in the rhythm of expansion and evolution, and to find yourself happily losing hours and hours at a time.
#5. Pokemon Conquest
- Release Data: Koei/The Pokemon Company, 2012
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Tactics
Pokémon fans should not hesitate to give Conquest a try because it offers a new and different way to enjoy the Pokémon universe.
The same goes for strategy fans, or those looking to get into the genre.
All in all, it easily stands as one of the greatest, most fully realized Pokémon spinoffs in existence.
#4. Disgaea DS
- Release Data: Nippon Ichi Software/NIS Europe, 2008
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Tactics
There is very little to recommend this game to one who has already drawn full pleasure from Disgaea: Afternoon of Darkness. It’s the same game, plus four bonus characters.
Newcomers and those who’ve only scratched the surface of the original Disgaea are advised to check this one out.
#3. Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor
- Release Data: Atlus, 2009
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Tactics
Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor is a thoroughly enjoyable role-playing game with a ton of atmosphere and style.
If you’re looking for a riveting portable adventure, then look no further: Devil Survivor will take over your life and leave you begging for more.
#2. Advance Wars: Days of Ruin
- Release Data: Intelligent Systems/Nintendo, 2008
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Tactics
It may have undergone a slight facelift, but this is the same old Advance Wars you know and love.
Fans of the series will find Days of Ruin to be the perfect sequel, but those who don’t enjoy the slow pace and steep difficulty curve won’t find anything new to tempt them.
#1. Advance Wars: Dual Strike
- Release Data: Intelligent Systems/Nintendo, 2005
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Tactics
In short, Dual Strike somehow succeeds at making a well-worn formula as fresh and exciting as ever.
Those who haven’t yet played an Advance Wars game shouldn’t hesitate to start with this one, while the series’ dedicated fans will find that there’s lots of great, new stuff here to play around with.
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See also: Best GameCube Games & Best Wii Games
Are your favorite games on the list?
Deciding which DS turn-based strategy game is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!