Nintendo DS with Detached Top Screen: Won't Work—Critical Hardware Severed

No. A Nintendo DS will not function with the top screen ripped off.

Why

• Top screen houses main CPU, battery, critical components—not just a display.
• Ribbon cable between halves carries data, power, signals. Severing it kills the system.
• DS is a single integrated unit; removing a major subsystem breaks everything.

Better Options

• Professional repair: Cracked screen? Fix it properly.
• DIY screen swap: Possible but risky—requires microsoldering skills.
• Sell for parts: Low return, but honest.

Don’t improvise hardware surgery. Consult a pro or replace.