For the gamers: five great Nintendo DS games for kids

We know not everyone’s into video games, but now that the weather is shifting to colder temperatures in many parts of the world, we figured those who are may be interested in getting their kiddos involved. — Stephanie

As an avid gamer I often find myself wandering the video game section and observing the myriad of parents attempting to choose a video game for their child. More often than not the parents choose a totally age inappropriate game (Resident Evil for a six year old?) or a game that is just plain bad. I understand that not everyone enjoys video games and that the sheer number of available games can be overwhelming so here is a list of five amazing, fun and educational (!!!) Nintendo DS games for kids that their parents might enjoy as well.

Mario Kart DS

(ESRB Rating: Everyone)

This fun racing game is sure to be a hit with kids. With its easy to learn controls even the most inexperienced gamer will be racing against the computer or their friends in minutes. Mario Kart DS offers one of the best multiplayer experiences on the Nintendo DS system. Unlike many multiplayer DS games that require each person to have their own copy of the game, Mario Kart DS allows up to eight people to play using only one copy of the game — this feature can be a big money saver if you have more than one child. Another benefit to this game is that it is a satisfying experience whether your child plays for five minutes at a time or several hours.

Pokémon Diamond/Pearl

(ESRB Rating: Everyone)
This game extends a popular franchise that some parents may remember from their own childhoods. The Pokémon formula still stands the test of time. Pokemon Diamond/Pearl has a fun story in which the main character (your child can choose to play as a boy or a girl) is sent on a mission by a Professor to collect data on the Pokémon that live in the game world. Pokémon are cute creatures that your child can capture and use to battle opponents. While the game involves competitive battling, nothing is killed (a Pokémon faints when it has been defeated and can be revived at a nearby Pokecenter) and the graphics are charming instead of violent. This game has a gripping story that is fun to complete, plus there is the added challenge of catching all the various kinds of Pokémon. This game also allows children to trade and battle Pokémon with other children who also own the game. Lastly, Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl are essentially the same game. The only difference is that each game has a unique collection of Pokémon — in order to “catch them all” your child will need to trade Pokemon with a friend who owns the other version.

The Legend of Zelda: The Phantom Hourglass

(ESRB Rating: Everyone)
Using the Nintendo DS touch screen, in The Legend of Zelda: The Phantom Hour Glass, your child will guide the famous Nintendo hero, Link, on a quest to save the Princess Zelda. On this quest Link solves puzzles, fights monsters (who vanish in a puff of smoke when vanquished) and meets lots of interesting characters. If your child is stuck on how to solve a puzzle or defeat a monster, then Link’s faithful fairy companion will chime in with a helpful hint. In addition to using the touch screen to guide Link, your child will also have to speak or blow in to the microphone on the Nintendo DS in order to solve a puzzle. It is a quirky and fun way to interact with the game. This game has a lengthy but very entertaining story and would be perfect for a long car or plane trip.

Professor Layton and the Curious Village

(ESRB Rating: Everyone)
You might find yourself sneaking off to play this game when your kids are not watching — it is that engaging! This game follows Professor Layton during his investigation of a crime that has been committed in the curious village of St. Mystere. In order to solve the crime your child must help him solve various brain-teaser style puzzles. The game’s 120 puzzles range in difficulty from very easy to quite challenging. However, there is no time limit and a good hint system to keep you (or your child) from becoming frustrated. This game is best for the older child who has a good grasp of simple problem solving and basic math (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division).

Animal Crossing: Wild World

(ESRB Rating: Everyone)

This quirky game is loved by adults and children alike. In Animal Crossing: Wild World, you create a character and move into a town full of idiosyncratic animal neighbours. The game begins with a few fun tasks to help your child learn the mechanics of the game which include planting flowers and trees; collecting shells, bugs and fossils; making friends with the neighbours; and purchasing items from the local store. After the tasks are complete, your child is free to explore and play as they wish. There is no right or wrong way to play Animal Crossing: Wild World — you can decorate your house with all the best pieces of furniture or spend all your money on planting flowers in the town.