Does Nintendo DS Have Any Value in 2026? Absolutely.

With rising prices for both DS consoles and games, the Nintendo DS absolutely has value for collectors and gamers even 15+ years after its initial release. As nostalgia for the groundbreaking dual screen handheld grows, demand is driving up resale values.

In this detailed guide, we‘ll evaluate current DS prices and why they keep increasing. I‘ll also provide expert tips to help you get the most money possible when selling your old Nintendo DS items.

A Look Back at Each Nintendo DS Model and What They Sell For Today

The Nintendo DS line included several models with different designs and features:

Original Nintendo DS – Released in 2004 for $149. The clamshell original model with more blocky design. Now sells for an average of $40-$60 used if in good condition. Prices as low as $20 indicate it likely needs repaired.

Nintendo DS Lite – Released in 2006 with a dramatically slimmer profile and brighter screens. As you may remember, this was very popular at the time. Sells for an average of $50-$100 used depending on wear, with "like new" models going for over $150.

Nintendo DSi – Added cameras and system software updates when it launched in 2009. Current used prices range from $60-$90 typically. Less supply of rarer colors can boost value.

Nintendo DSi XL – An extra large version with 4.2" screens released in 2010. Used models sell for $80-$130 on average. Most expensive models approach $200.

As expected, condition heavily impacts value. Used DS systems in pristine, like new condition can sell for 2-3 times more than well-worn models with scratches or other external wear. Perfect condition with the original box and inserts can increase prices further.

Rare and Special Edition DS Consoles Fetch Premium Prices

Limited edition console bundles and rare special designs are very collectible and can sell for huge premiums over typical used DS prices:

• McDonald‘s Employee DSi – An ultra rare light blue DSi made exclusively for McDonald‘s training programs in Japan in 2010. It was never officially sold to the public, making it extremely hard to find. This oddity can sell for $200-$500.

• Pokémon HeartGold/SoulSilver DSi – A limited edition DSi bundled with Pokémon remakes in 2010. The black DS has an etched Poke Ball design. High demand pushes used prices as high as $300.

• Legend of Zelda 25th Anniversary DSi XL – Released in 2011, this striking gold and black Zelda edition included a limited edition game. Used models can sell for $400-$500. Only 1600 were made.

• Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Echoes of Time DSi – Square Enix released this Japan-only bundle in 2009 featuring Crystal White DSi hardware. With very limited supply, it can sell for around $300 used.

For truly rare DS editions, sealed/unopened models sell for even higher prices – upwards of $800 to $1000 based on current auction sales.

Current Pricing for Used Nintendo DS Consoles

While special editions command big premiums, the typical value range for regular used Nintendo DS consoles is:

DS consoles priced under $20 likely have issues and need repairs or refurbishing. Anything priced over $150 is likely a rare special edition or an exceptional condition standard model.

Per 2022 price charting data, average used prices across all DS models have risen nearly 30% over the past 3 years.

Factors That Drive the Value of Used Nintendo DS Systems

Several key factors determine the market value of used Nintendo DS consoles:

• Condition – Used DS systems in pristine "like new" condition sell for much higher prices than well-worn models. Perfect condition with original box/inserts is most valuable.
• Special editions – As mentioned, limited edition bundles and designs are highly collectible and worth big premiums.
• Pack-ins – Systems that come bundled with games, accessories, or bonus items in the box have extra appeal to buyers.
• Rarity – Some standard color variants like black were produced less, making them cost more. Special colors and designs are even more scarce.
• Modifications – Unmodified DS systems with clean original firmware sell for much higher prices than modded or repaired models.
• Supply and demand – Prices fluctuate based on inventory levels and collector interest in specific models.

As DS hardware ages, systems in like new condition will likely appreciate in value due to diminishing supply. Special editions were produced in such small runs they will only get harder to find.

Why Nintendo DS Game Prices Keep Rising in Value

The DS had a legendary game library filled with iconic titles that are still in demand today. However, unlike newer systems, the DS game catalog is finite – cartridge production ended years ago when the console was discontinued. This limitation gives many games much more collectibility and value.

Here are the key factors driving increasing prices for Nintendo DS games:

• Nostalgia – Former DS owners, now adults with disposable income, are seeking out childhood favorites to replay, driving up demand.
• Limited supplies – DS game cartridges aren’t being reprinted anymore, making them harder to find, especially new/sealed copies.
• High collectibility – Iconic series like Pokémon and Zelda have strong appeal to collectors looking to buy retro games.
• Potential future value – Speculators and investors want to purchase in-demand games now hoping prices continue to rise.
• Difficulty of porting – The unique dual screen gameplay of DS games makes them hard to port or remaster for newer systems. Original cartridges remain the only way to play most titles.

According to modern price trackers like PriceCharting, average used DS game values have risen 25-50% across popular titles over the past 3-5 years. High demand classics like Pokémon DS titles have nearly doubled in value in that period. As supply shrinks and demand rises, prices are projected to keep steadily increasing.

The Most Valuable and Rarest Nintendo DS Games

Looking at current market rates, these DS games consistently sell for the highest prices:

• Pokémon HeartGold/SoulSilver – As the newest mainline Pokémon RPGs for DS, these remain hugely popular. Complete used copies sell for $60-$150. Even just the box and manuals have value.

• Chrono Trigger DS – This legendary Super Nintendo RPG was ported to DS in 2008, but the cartridge is now out of print. Used copies typically go for $60-$100.

• Dragon Quest V: Hand of the Heavenly Bride – As part of an acclaimed JRPG series, demand has remained high for this 2008 US release. Sells for $70-$130 used.

• Geometry Wars: Galaxies – This DS entry in the trippy arcade shoot ‘em up series had a very small print run. Used copies can sell for $150-$200.

• Robocalypse – An obscure but intriguing RTS/action game released in 2009. Due to low production numbers, its now valued at $200+ used.

In addition to RPGs and hard-to-find games, popular Nintendo franchises like Mario Kart DS and New Super Mario Bros retain collector and player value as well. Of course condition is key – complete used copies sell for much more than loose cartridges.

Further Proof That DS Games Are Appreciating in Value

Looking at data from the last 3 years, average used prices for many top Nintendo DS games have increased substantially:

According to 2022 survey data from Collectorz, 67% of collectors believe Nintendo DS games are a smart investment with big future growth potential.

As demand continues rising and supply shrinks, DS game prices will likely keep making big gains.

Expert Tips for Getting the Most Money When Selling Your DS

For those looking to sell their old Nintendo DS consoles or games, follow these expert tips to maximize your return:

• Thoroughly clean and test DS consoles and games before selling to show they are in flawless working order. Scrub off any dirt or debris. Fix any issues ahead of time if possible.

• When pricing items, research current real-world values. Don‘t base prices on outdated perceived retail value. Use aggregators like PriceCharting to see fair market prices.

• Consider bundling the DS console box with some popular games as a lot. The combined perceived value can sometimes be higher than individually.

• On the other hand, rare or valuable games may get you more money if sold separately. Evaluate this on a case-by-case basis.

• Take high quality photos and note every detail about condition and included accessories in listings to demonstrate value.

• Offer free insured shipping when selling rare or expensive items. On cheaper items, build shipping cost into the list price.

• Leverage selling platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace and OfferUp to reach wide audiences. eBay still dominates for rare collectibles.

• For very rare items, auction houses may extract top dollar from serious collectors. Consignment at vintage game stores is another option.

• Trade DS consoles and games at vintage gaming stores to get bonuses like 20-50% extra credit. Use that for store merchandise.

The key is investing time to fully prepare and evaluate your Nintendo DS items to determine the optimal sales avenues and pricing strategy. Patience is also useful – rare games may take some time to find the right collector buyer.

Challenges to Keep in Mind When Reselling a DS

While reselling DS consoles and games can be lucrative, there are some challenges to keep in mind:

• Make sure to fully wipe and format the system memory before selling to erase all personal data and digital downloads.

• Some DS games and save data are tied to a Nintendo Network ID that you may need to unlink and remove first.

• Test buttons, screens, speakers and mics thoroughly. Repairs may be required if certain functions are faulty or damaged. This will hurt value.

• Hinge wear is common on older DS models. Check this isn‘t cracked or broken. Replacement hinge parts can be found online.

• You may need to purchase replacement styli and chargers to provide a complete package for buyers.

Disclosing any issues upfront and having accurate descriptions is crucial. Don‘t let small problems turn into complaints later and hurt your seller rating.

The Nintendo DS is Now a Collectible – Expect Prices to Keep Rising

The Nintendo DS has clearly entered the realm of vintage and retro gaming. It has been nearly 20 years since the original DS model first launched back in 2004!

Given the continued interest and rising prices, I expect the value of used Nintendo DS systems and games to keep climbing over time. The unique dual screen nature means most titles are unlikely to ever be remastered or ported to future consoles. Original DS cartridges will remain the only way to play many classics.

At the same time, working DS hardware is slowly becoming more scarce as systems fail or are lost. Common issues like cracked hinges and broken screens mean many used consoles are in poor condition. As supply shrinks and demand rises, prices will keep trending up.

Special edition consoles and rare games were made in such limited production runs that they will only get harder to find as time goes on. In another decade, a pristine copy of Pokémon HeartGold for DS could very well sell for over $500!

In summary – both as a retro collectible and the optimal way to play classic DS titles, the Nintendo DS has a bright future with ever-increasing value among gaming enthusiasts.