The Nintendo DS, a revolutionary dual-screen handheld console loved by millions, offered a vast library of delightful games.
Yet, not all titles on this portable gaming platform were destined for greatness. Among the gems, a handful of unfortunate games emerged that left players feeling unsatisfied and dismayed.
From lackluster gameplay to questionable design choices, these games represent the darker side of the DS’s extensive collection.
As we delve into gaming’s murkier waters, join us in uncovering the worst DS games of all time, forever etched in the annals of gaming missteps.
#10. Rhythm ‘n Notes: Improve Your Music Skills
- Release Data: Beyond Interactive/Success, 2007
- Genre: Action » Rhythm » Music
Rhythm ‘n Notes is not worth considering.
If you’re interested in learning piano chords and notes, investing in actual piano lessons would be a much better option, as this game won’t be of any help.
Similarly, for those looking for rhythm games, Elite Beat Agents offers a superior selection.
#9. Monster Trucks DS
- Release Data: Skyworks Technologies/Majesco, 2005
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
Monster Trucks DS is undeniably a poor game.
It lacks fun, size, creativity, and overall value, making it unworthy of spending money on. Even the effort put into reviewing it seems hardly worth it.
Overall, this game is so unimpressive that it might as well be avoided entirely, as it offers little to no enjoyment or positive experiences.
#8. Dino Master
- Release Data: Creative Office/Taito Corporation, 2006
- Genre: Strategy » General
Dino Master had a promising concept, but unfortunately, the development team couldn’t execute it in a fun or playable manner.
Despite having numerous puzzles and around 100 dinosaurs to collect, and even a two-player battle mode, these aspects don’t salvage the game.
As a result, the overall experience is underdeveloped, broken, and visually unappealing.
#7. AniMates
- Release Data: Dreamcatcher, 2007
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Pet
AniMates is a truly awful game that should be avoided at all costs.
It fails to deliver what virtual pet games are meant to provide—interaction, connection, and the establishment of bonds with virtual creatures.
Even worse, the game contains programming glitches that can cause your creature to clip through parts of the environment, adding to its list of shortcomings.
#6. ATV Quad Frenzy
- Release Data: Skyworks Technologies/Majesco, 2005
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
This game disappointingly lacks almost everything you would expect from a dirt racer.
It’s missing any sense of speed, challenging AI, and the excitement of danger that makes these games enjoyable.
Instead, players are left frustrated with sloppy game design, unappealing physics, and a user interface that appears to be unfinished and poorly executed.
#5. Homie Rollerz
- Release Data: Webfoot Technologies/Destineer, 2008
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Other
Homie Rollerz is not a recommended game for anyone, including fans of the toy line or kart racers in general.
The controls are overly sensitive, leading to frustrating racing experiences.
And although there is a story, it’s quite limited compared to the rich backstory crafted for these characters by the toy line.
#4. Wiffle Ball
- Release Data: Skyworks Technologies/DSI Games, 2007
- Genre: Sports » Team » Baseball » Arcade
Wiffle Ball is an undeniably awful game.
It’s a complete failure in every aspect of its execution, even in the most basic elements like button responsiveness. Moreover, the poor design decisions, ugly art, and bad coding contribute to its offensive quality.
Overall, this game is a prime example of how not to develop a handheld game.
#3. Peter Jackson’s King Kong: The Official Game of the Movie
- Release Data: Ubisoft Casablanca/Ubisoft, 2005
- Genre: Action Adventure » General
King Kong might initially seem promising, with a screenshot on the box showing Kong battling planes on the Empire State Building.
In reality, players don’t get the chance to rampage in the city, climb the building, or fight off planes.
Instead, they’re left disappointed after playing through 17 short levels that all look very similar.
#2. Sudoku Mania
- Release Data: FrontLine Studios/UFO Interactive, 2006
- Genre: Puzzle » Logic
Unlike other Sudoku games with preloaded puzzles, Sudoku Mania uses a random puzzle generator, resulting in basic number patterns that make some puzzles too easy.
The interface is basic, lacking touch screen controls for number notes, and the two-player mode is unimpressive.
Overall, it pales in comparison to other Sudoku games and is not worth the investment.
#1. Deal or No Deal
- Release Data: Artefacts Studio/Destination Software, 2007
- Genre: Casual » Trivia / Game Show
Deal or No Deal should have never been made into a video game in the first place.
The game show’s format doesn’t translate well to this medium, and the attempt at bringing it to life falls flat.
Overall, it’s a game that should be avoided at all costs, as it fails to capture the excitement of the TV show.
While the DS delivered countless unforgettable experiences, these titles serve as cautionary reminders of the industry’s occasional missteps.
Let us remember them as important lessons in the ever-evolving world of gaming.