Pilas-melonDS is a free browser frontend for the melonDS Nintendo DS emulator, built with HTML5 and WebAssembly. It opens .nds, .dsi and .srl files and boots in DS mode by default, with experimental DSi mode also available. Controls include keyboard, gamepad and touch input, and rendering options include Canvas 2D, WebGL 2 and WebGPU, with WebAudio output. Cartridge saves and browser save states use IndexedDB, with up to six state slots for each ROM. The frontend can install DSiWare .cia files into DSi NAND or virtual SD storage. DSi camera and microphone input require browser media permissions and a localhost or HTTPS origin. Browser internet mode supplies a limited networking shim, not arbitrary raw UDP/TCP access or HTTPS decryption. Starting the DSi menu requires legally dumped DSi BIOS files and a writable NAND dump; normal DS direct boot can use the built-in FreeBIOS fallback. The project says it does not include Nintendo keys, and encrypted CIA installation requires the user’s legally obtained common key. The repository identifies its license as MPL-2.0.
Who it is for
It suits people looking for a browser-based Nintendo DS emulator frontend, including those who want to try its experimental DSi mode. DSi menu use requires the specified BIOS files and NAND dump.
What is good
- Runs in web browsers on desktop and mobile.
- Offers keyboard, gamepad and touch controls.
- Supports three rendering choices.
- Provides up to six save-state slots per ROM.
- Can install DSiWare .cia files.
What to know first
- DSi mode is experimental.
- Browser networking cannot provide arbitrary raw UDP/TCP internet.
- DSi menu boot needs BIOS files and a writable NAND dump.
- Encrypted CIA installation requires the user's common key.
Verdict
Pilas-melonDS provides a browser frontend with multiple controls, rendering options and save-state slots. Its DSi and networking requirements are important limits to consider before choosing it.
Get started with Pilas-melonDS
- Visit https://github.com/josepilas/pilas-melonds.
- Build the app with Emscripten as described in the project README.
- Serve the generated app locally over HTTP.
- Open the app in a desktop or mobile web browser.
- Load a supported .nds, .dsi, or .srl ROM file.
Questions about Pilas-melonDS
How much does Pilas-melonDS cost?
The Free plan is priced at 0.00 USD per free. No paid plans or usage limits are stated on the project page.
Which devices can run it?
It runs in web browsers on desktop and mobile devices.
Does it support Nintendo DSi?
It offers experimental DSi mode. Booting the DSi menu requires legally dumped DSi BIOS files and a writable NAND dump.
Can I save my progress?
Cartridge saves and browser save states use IndexedDB. There are up to six save-state slots per ROM.
What is the project’s license?
The repository identifies its license as MPL-2.0.
Who makes Pilas-melonDS?
The GitHub profile identifies the maker as José Pilas, a video game developer and influencer.
Pilas-melonDS plans and pricing
All plansCompared on Nintendo DS emulators
- Free plan
- Yes
- Supported platforms
- Web browsers on desktop and mobile devices
- Save states
- Yes
- Local multiplayer
- Yes
- Nintendo DSi support
- Yes
