20 years ago, Nintendo changed how I thought about games forever with just two screens

Are games consoles lacking excitement these days? Many feel that way. They seem to lack the whimsy and eccentricity that they once had, with the exception of the Nintendo Switch. However, even with the Switch’s unique hybrid format, it doesn’t fundamentally change how games work. It’s more about the versatility of where you can play games. While this is typical of Nintendo – quirky yet influential – some of us are craving something more.

Interestingly, Nintendo already created what many are yearning for 20 years ago: the DS. This handheld console captured the hearts of many, becoming the second best-selling console of all time by the end of its lifespan. The DS was a revolutionary device that offered a dual-screen experience, a concept that Nintendo had explored previously with the Game & Watch. However, the DS took it to a whole new level, showcasing Nintendo’s innovation and foresight. The dual screens, along with the touchscreen functionality, opened up a world of new gameplay possibilities.

The DS offered unique gaming experiences that utilized its dual screens in innovative ways. Games like Mario & Luigi: Partners in Time and The World Ends With You showcased the creative potential of the DS. By synchronizing gameplay across both screens, players were engaged in a whole new level of interaction. The device’s versatility was further demonstrated in games like Hotel Dusk, where the DS was used in portrait mode, resembling a book for immersive storytelling. The DS truly changed the way we looked at handheld gaming.

The DS encouraged players to see games as dedicated spaces for playfulness and creativity. It challenged traditional gaming norms by offering a more immersive and engaging experience. In a gaming landscape where consoles have become homogenized, the DS stands out as a beacon of innovation and uniqueness. It made games feel larger and more expansive, opening up new possibilities for exploration and interaction.

While newer consoles may have their strengths, the DS continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many gamers. Its legacy lives on, inspiring a generation of players to think differently about gaming. Even after two decades, the DS remains a symbol of handheld gaming excellence, showcasing the enduring impact of innovative design and gameplay.