Nintendo DS
Nintendo DS (ニンテンドーDSNintendō DS) is Nintendo's seventh-generation handheld game console, released on November 21, 2004. Marking an experimental era for Nintendo, the DS was distinct in not carrying the "Game Boy" name, likely to avoid potential brand damage in case of poor sales, as experienced with the Virtual Boy. Marketed as a "third pillar" in Nintendo's console lineup, it was initially claimed not to replace the Game Boy Advance but to complement it. However, with its secondary Game Boy Advance slot, the DS effectively succeeded the Game Boy Advance, marking the end of the Game Boy line.
The DS captivated both developers and gamers with its innovative features, notably the dual screens that expanded the display area for menus and gameplay. The secondary touch-sensitive screen allowed for intuitive item selection without the need for buttons. The console also included standard upgrades such as a second speaker for stereo sound and a built-in microphone.
Furthermore, the DS introduced wireless and Wi-Fi capabilities, facilitating local multiplayer gaming without the need for a Game Link Cable and enabling global competition via the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. By the end of January 2010, over 125 million units had been sold worldwide, making it Nintendo's best-selling console of all time.
Medarot games
The Nintendo DS marked the return of the Medarot franchise after a half-decade hiatus. Despite the console's massive popularity, the DS only received a single Medarot game, tying it with the WonderSwan and GameCube for the fewest Medarot game releases. However, the DS's GBA slot allows players to enjoy past Medarot games on the console.