Most Nintendo DS and DSi game cards work on Nintendo 3DS-family systems, including 3DS and 2DS models. Insert the card, select its icon on the HOME Menu, then choose OPEN. A few games that require the Game Boy Advance (AGB)/Slot 2 are exceptions, and 3DS-family systems do not support Slot 2 accessories.
How to start a DS game on a 3DS or 2DS
- Insert the Nintendo DS or DSi game card into the system’s game-card slot.
- On the HOME Menu, select the game-card icon.
- Choose OPEN to start the game.
These are the steps in Nintendo’s New Nintendo 2DS XL manual. For button placement or any model-specific difference, check the manual for your exact system.
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How to display the game at its original resolution
DS and DSi games normally appear expanded to fill more of the screen, which makes the image lower resolution than the original display. To launch a game at its original resolution, hold START or SELECT while choosing OPEN, and keep holding the button until the game starts. Nintendo documents this launch method in its New Nintendo 2DS XL manual.
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What works differently from playing on a DS
- No 3D: DS and DSi titles do not display in 3D. The 2DS displays all software in 2D.
- No HOME Menu during play: You cannot open the HOME Menu while a DS or DSi game is running.
- No StreetPass or SpotPass for DS/DSi software: Nintendo lists these services as incompatible with DS/DSi software on 3DS-family systems.
- Slot 2 features are unsupported: 3DS-family systems cannot use accessories or features that depend on the DS Game Boy Advance/Slot 2. A few DS games require Slot 2; check the individual game’s manual before buying or trying to play it.
Nintendo summarizes compatibility with this qualification: “With the exception of a few games which require the use of the AGB slot, all Nintendo DS games are compatible with Nintendo 3DS family systems.” See Nintendo Support’s compatibility guidance.
#1 Best Overall
- Item Package Dimension- 8.49999999133L x 6.099999993778W x 2.399999997552H inches
- Item Package Weight - 0.9499999992033387 Pounds
- Item Package Quantity - 1
- Product Type - VIDEO GAME CONSOLE
Check the card type and region before buying
DS/DSi game cards and Nintendo 3DS game cards are different formats. A Nintendo 3DS game card does not play on DS-family hardware. For a 3DS-family system, check that a listing is for a DS or DSi card if that is what you want to play.
Region rules also differ by card and system. Nintendo says 3DS systems are region-locked, with 3DS software limited to hardware for the corresponding region. Its international-compatibility guidance addresses DSi systems specifically: DSi-exclusive cards are region-locked, while older DS/DS Lite software is region-free in most cases on DSi/DSi XL. That guidance is not a blanket guarantee for every DS card and every system combination. Check the card packaging or listing and Nintendo’s 3DS-family region-lock information, game-region identification guidance, and international-compatibility guidance before purchasing an imported game.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Will online features still work?
Do not assume that online features in a DS or DSi game are still available. Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, which provided online functionality for many DS and DSi titles, has been discontinued. What remains available depends on the individual game; consult its manual and current Nintendo support information about game-card wireless compatibility rather than relying on an old description of its online features.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- The set includes ● - Nintendo 3DS body -Nintendo 3DS-only charging base - Nintendo 3DS AC adapter for - Nintendo 3DS stylus-only · SD Memory Card 2GB · AR Cards (6 pieces) Easy-Start Guide Instruction manual - Warranty ---! Regard to 3D video --- · There is individual difference in the Visibility of 3D video. That it may not be seen in 3D video content physical condition and constitution, of the video, such as by the surrounding circumstances, Please note. - For children 6 years old and below, because there may adversely affect the growth of the eye and continue to see 3D images for a long time, please use the 2D display. The 3D video of Nintendo 3DS, not only can see the body
Rank #3
- Features: 3D Depth Slider, Wi-Fi Capability, Nintendo 3DS Sound, Mii Maker, 3D Camera, Front & Rear Camera, Touch Screen
- Includes: AC Power Adapter, Stylus
- Wired Connectivity: Wireless
- Model Compatibility: Nintendo 3DS
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