For many of us, the Nintendo DS is a nostalgic console that brings back memories of playing Pokémon games on the go. The DS was a phenomenal handheld console that was home to some of the most iconic Pokémon games of all time, including Pokémon Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum. But as technology advances and new Pokémon games are released, it’s natural to wonder: can you still buy old Pokémon games on DS?
The Short Answer: Yes, You Can Still Buy Old Pokémon Games on DS!
The good news is that you can still purchase old Pokémon games on DS, but it might require some digging and flexibility. While the Nintendo DS is no longer in production, and newer consoles have taken its place, there are still ways to get your hands on those classic games.
Where to Find Old Pokémon Games on DS?
If you’re looking to buy old Pokémon games on DS, here are some options to consider:
Online Marketplaces
Online marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and Rakuten are great places to start your search. You can find new and used copies of Pokémon games on DS, including rare and hard-to-find titles. Be cautious when purchasing from third-party sellers, and make sure to check the seller’s ratings and reviews before making a purchase.
Game Stores
Believe it or not, some game stores still carry a limited selection of old Pokémon games on DS. You might need to visit a few stores or call ahead to check their inventory, but it’s worth a try. GameStop, for example, often has a retro gaming section where you can find classic games, including Pokémon titles.
Garage Sales and Thrift Stores
You can also try your luck at garage sales, thrift stores, or second-hand game shops. You might stumble upon a rare find or score a great deal on a gently used copy of your favorite Pokémon game. Just be sure to inspect the game and its packaging before purchasing.
Friends and Family
Ask your friends and family members if they have any old Pokémon games on DS that they’re willing to sell or trade. You might be surprised at what they’re willing to part with, and you can negotiate a good deal.
The Long Answer: The Challenges of Buying Old Pokémon Games on DS
While it’s still possible to buy old Pokémon games on DS, there are some challenges to consider:
The Rarity of Certain Titles
Some Pokémon games on DS, like Pokémon Platinum or Pokémon HeartGold, are harder to find than others. If you’re looking for a specific title, you might need to search longer or be willing to pay a premium price.
The Condition of Used Games
When buying used games, you need to consider the condition of the game and its packaging. Check the game cartridge for scratches, the label for wear, and the packaging for damage. A scratched or damaged game might not work properly or might be difficult to resell.
The Authenticity of Games
When purchasing from third-party sellers, there’s a risk of buying a counterfeit game. Make sure to purchase from reputable sellers and check the game’s packaging and labeling for any signs of tampering or duplication.
The Cost of Rare Games
Some Pokémon games on DS, like Pokémon Diamond or Pokémon SoulSilver, can be quite rare and expensive. Be prepared to pay a premium price for these titles, especially if they’re in good condition and still sealed.
The Compatibility with Modern Consoles
The Nintendo DS is an older console, and the games might not be compatible with modern consoles like the Nintendo Switch. If you’re looking to play Pokémon games on a newer console, you might need to consider alternative options, like downloading classic games from the Nintendo eShop or purchasing newer titles.
Alternative Options for Playing Old Pokémon Games
If you’re unable to find a physical copy of an old Pokémon game on DS or prefer not to buy a used game, there are alternative options to consider:
Download Classic Games from the Nintendo eShop
The Nintendo eShop offers a range of classic Pokémon games, including some DS titles, that you can download directly to your Nintendo 3DS or Wii U console. This is a convenient option that eliminates the need to search for physical copies.
Purchase Remakes or Remasters
Some Pokémon games on DS have been remade or remastered for newer consoles, like the Nintendo Switch. For example, Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl are remakes of the classic DS games. These remakes often feature updated graphics, new gameplay mechanics, and additional features.
Use Emulation or Virtual Consoles
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try using emulation or virtual consoles to play old Pokémon games on your PC or newer console. However, be aware that emulation can be complex, and not all emulators are legal or safe to use.
Conclusion
While it might take some effort to find old Pokémon games on DS, it’s still possible to purchase them from online marketplaces, game stores, garage sales, and thrift stores. Be cautious when buying used games, and consider alternative options like downloading classic games from the Nintendo eShop or purchasing remakes or remasters. With a little patience and persistence, you can relive the nostalgia of playing Pokémon games on the go with your trusty Nintendo DS.
| Where to Find Old Pokémon Games on DS | Description |
|---|---|
| Online Marketplaces | Amazon, eBay, Rakuten, and other online marketplaces where you can find new and used copies of Pokémon games on DS. |
| Game Stores | Visiting game stores like GameStop or local retro gaming shops that might carry a limited selection of old Pokémon games on DS. |
| Garage Sales and Thrift Stores | Second-hand game shops, garage sales, or thrift stores where you can find gently used copies of Pokémon games on DS. |
| Friends and Family | Asking friends and family members if they have any old Pokémon games on DS that they’re willing to sell or trade. |
Can I still buy old Pokémon games on DS new from retailers?
You can still find new, unopened copies of old Pokémon games on DS at some retailers, although the availability is limited. Online marketplaces like Amazon or eBay may have sellers offering new copies, but be cautious of the prices and the seller’s ratings. You might also be able to find them at specialty video game stores or retro gaming shops that carry older titles.
It’s essential to note that Nintendo has discontinued the production of DS games, so any new copies you find will likely be leftover stock from when the games were initially released. As a result, the prices may be higher than what you’d expect to pay for a new game. Additionally, be wary of counterfeit products, especially when purchasing from third-party sellers.
Are used Pokémon DS games still available for purchase?
Yes, used Pokémon DS games are still widely available for purchase from various sources. Online marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, or specialized video game resellers like GameStop often have a large selection of used DS games. You can also try local game stores, thrift shops, or garage sales, where you might stumble upon a hidden gem.
When buying used, make sure to check the game’s condition, including the cartridge, label, and packaging. Look for any signs of wear, scratches, or damage that could affect gameplay. Additionally, ensure that the game comes with any necessary accessories, like the instruction manual or a working battery. Be prepared to negotiate the price, especially if you’re buying in person.
Can I download old Pokémon games on my DS from the Nintendo eShop?
Unfortunately, the Nintendo eShop for the DS is no longer available, and you cannot download old Pokémon games directly to your DS console. The eShop was discontinued in 2017, and any DS games that were available for download are no longer accessible.
However, if you have a Nintendo 3DS or a Wii U, you can still purchase and download Virtual Console titles, which include some classic Pokémon games. These games are not compatible with the original DS, though.
Will I be able to play my old Pokémon DS games on a new Nintendo console?
The Nintendo 3DS and Wii U are backwards compatible with some DS games, but not all of them. If you have a 3DS, you can play most DS games, including Pokémon titles, using the 3DS’s built-in backwards compatibility feature. However, the Wii U is only compatible with a limited selection of DS games, and Pokémon titles are not among them.
Keep in mind that the DS games will not take advantage of the new console’s features, such as 3D graphics or improved processing power. They will play in their original format, just like they did on the DS.
Are there any alternatives to buying old Pokémon DS games?
If you’re having trouble finding or affording old Pokémon DS games, consider alternative options. You can try playing Pokémon games on other platforms, such as the mobile Pokémon games or the latest titles on the Nintendo Switch. These games might not be exactly the same as the classic DS games, but they offer similar gameplay experiences.
Another option is to look into Pokémon fan games or romhacks, which are created by enthusiasts and can offer new storylines or gameplay mechanics. However, be cautious when downloading and playing these games, as they may not be officially sanctioned by Nintendo or Game Freak.
Can I sell my old Pokémon DS games?
Yes, you can sell your old Pokémon DS games, and they might be worth more than you think. The demand for retro games and consoles has increased in recent years, driving up prices for rare or hard-to-find titles. You can sell your games online through marketplaces like eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace, or trade them in at local game stores.
Before selling, research your game’s value by checking online price guides or recent sales data. Make sure to provide detailed descriptions and high-quality photos of the game’s condition to attract potential buyers.
Will Nintendo re-release old Pokémon games on new consoles?
Nintendo has re-released several classic Pokémon games on newer consoles, such as the Pokémon Virtual Console titles on the 3DS and Wii U. However, there has been no official announcement about re-releasing old Pokémon DS games on newer consoles like the Nintendo Switch.
That being said, Nintendo has shown interest in bringing back classic games through its Nintendo Switch Online service, which offers a growing library of NES and SNES titles. It’s possible that we might see Pokémon DS games come to the Switch in the future, but for now, there’s no concrete evidence to support this.