DS vs. DSi Game Compatibility: Differences and Backward Compatibility

The DS and DSi do not take the exact same games. While they share many titles, the DSi has a wider library including games designed specifically for it.

Here's why:

• DSi has different hardware: More powerful hardware allows it to run more advanced games.
• DSiWare: The DSi introduced a digital distribution platform for games and apps exclusive to DSi.
• Backward compatibility: The DSi plays most DS games, but some DS games are not compatible with DSi.

Summary:

• Original DS games: Most work on DSi.
• DSiWare games: Exclusive to DSi; won't work on original DS.
• Exceptions: A small number of DS games are not DSi-compatible.

If you want the largest game library, choose DSi. For a budget option, the original DS may be more affordable.