Is Mario Kart DS the Best DS Game? Subjective, But Top-Tier

"Best" is subjective, but Mario Kart DS is universally regarded as a system-defining masterpiece and a top-3 DS title by critics and players.

Why It's Considered Elite

Perfect Portable Adaptation: 60 fps, smooth online (for 2005), mission mode, VS mode, Grand Prix.
Innovative Touch Controls: Item management via touchscreen; mic blowing (balloon).
Track Design: 16 new + 16 retro (SNES/GBA/GCN) – best track roster in series.
Longevity: Wi-Fi Connection (WFC) ran 2005–2014; community servers (Wiimmfi) keep online alive today.
Accessibility + Depth: Snaking, drift boosting, PRB (Prolonged Rocket Boost) for high skill ceiling.

Game	Why It Competes
The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass	Touch-only control innovation, brilliant dungeon design.
Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon	Modernized classic SRPG, introduced Casual Mode.
Professor Layton and the Curious Village	Puzzle-adventure perfection, charming art/style.
Elite Beat Agents	Rhythm gameplay + absurd story, high replayability.
Pokémon HeartGold/SoulSilver	Definitive Pokémon experience, Pokéwalker support.
Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow	Metroidvania peak on DS, magical seal system.

If you love competitive racing, MKDS is #1. If you prefer narrative/puzzle/RPG, others win. All are essential library pieces.

Nintendo DS