How to run Nintendo DS games

the Nintendo DS is a wonderful handheld console that has become home to some of the most creative and entertaining games of a generation. Unfortunately, many of the best console games aren't available on modern systems, and even if you have the games, if the console breaks, there are few options available on modern machines.




EmuDeck on Steam Deck is like a retro gaming portal, allowing you to play titles from many different generations, including the DS. This guide will outline the steps to install EmuDeck and allow you to enjoy your favorite DS games on Steam Deck.

Enable Developer Mode on Steam Deck

Steam Deck enables Developer mode

Before installing EmuDeck on Steam Deck you should enable Developer Mode and CEF Remote Debugging to make sure your Steam Deck is compatible with the EmuDeck update.

  • Open Steam Deck.
  • Click on the Steam button to access the Steam Menu.
  • Open the System menu and run Developer mode.
  • Open Developer menu.
  • In the Developer menu, Enable CEF Remote Debugging.
  • Press the Steam Button, and select the Power menu.
  • Change to Desktop mode.


Before installing EmuDeck on Steam Deck…

Steam Deck SD card slot to increase storage

  • You need a high-speed A2 micro SD card to install EmuDeck and games. Format the SD card in Steam Deck.
  • DS ROMs for games – DS files end with .nds.
  • You can use keyboard and mouse to make it easy to install and transfer files.

Switch back to Desktop mode in Steam Deck

Download EmuDeck


  • Press the Steam button, select Power, and go to it Desktop mode.
  • Open your browser and download EmuDeck.
  • Select downloads, then select your Steam OS version.
  • Run the installer and select custom.
  • Click on the SD card image.
  • Then select Steam Deck.
  • Select RetroArch, MelonDS, Steam R OM Manager, and Station Emulation. Or install all emulators for later use.
  • Go through the next few screens and select Finalize to start the installation.

Transfer DS files & add them to your Steam Deck library

Steam Rom manager for DS

Now, it's time to move your DS files to the correct folder so that the EmuDeck program will recognize them in the Steam Rom Manager.

  • Click on the Dolphin File Manager.
  • Click on the SD card labeled PRIMARY.
  • Click on the split option.
  • In a square, choose imitated SY ROMS.
  • Click on the folder named NDS.
  • Copy your DS files into an empty folder.


Add the game with Steam ROM Manager

Select DS emulators from Steam Deck

  • In Desktop mode, open EmuDeck again.
  • Open the Steam ROM Manager from the left panel and click yes.
  • Then click Next.
  • Click on two Nintendo DS windows.
  • Click on it Add game and then click Parse.
  • The Steam ROM Manager will prepare the game and its cover.

Fix missing covers for DS games on Steam Deck

Customize the image in the Steam Rom Manager for DS

Most of the time, the Steam ROM Manager will find and find all your covers and add them to Steam Deck's Gaming Mode and library. However, obscure or imported titles may not appear. Use the following steps to fix the missing cover:


  • If you have a missing cover, select Fix.
  • Type the title of the game in the Fix Artwork and Title search bar.
  • Select one of the game covers on the sidebar and scroll around until you find the right cover.
  • Click on the cover and that's it highlighted in white.
  • Then click Save and close at the top right of the Steam Rom Manager.

Add your own cover

You may be required to add your own packages if SRM does not detect them. Use Google image search to find your game cover and follow the steps below.

  • Instead of Fix, click Upload.
  • Search and add your photos.
  • Then select Save and Close.
  • Close SRM and switch return to Gaming Mode.

Play the way your DS games are played

Suikodne Tierkris on Steam Deck with DS emulator


  • Click the Steam button to access the Library choice.
  • Select the Collections.
  • Select the Nintendo DS folder and select the game you want to play.

Performance tips

  • Press the QAM button when your DS game starts – the three-dot button below the right trackpad.
  • Open the Display menu from QAM.
  • Send it Use the profile for each game.
  • Then, increase the frame rate to 60 FPS to solve potential problems.

That's all you need to play Nintendo DS on Steam Deck and enjoy your games on other systems.


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