It was recently announced that Nintendo would be bringing DS games to the Wii U Virtual Console.  Here are 10 DS games from the handheld’s huge library that we felt would make a great addition to the Virtual Console service on Wii U.

Chrono Trigger

 

Even though the SNES version is already available in Wii mode, more Chrono Trigger is never a bad thing.  The DS version brings with it new cinematics, and a cleaner interface among other things.  As one of the best RPG’s of all time, Chrono Trigger deserves as much exposure as possible!

Advance Wars

A tactical game with engaging characters and story, Advance Wars suited the DS so well that the transition to the Wii U and it’s GamePad would be practically seamless. If the TV replaces the DS top screen, tanks would fire upon each other on the big screen while you maneuver your battalion on the touch screen. The Wii U needs a game like this and this could tide us over until something new comes along.

Brain Age

Brain Age Training was a huge success on the DS. The concept is simple – daily exercises to stimulate your mind and increase your memory and concentration. The games are short and fun, and utilise the touch screen perfectly, from simple math problems to drawing. The competitive factor keeps you coming back to challenge yourself and your family – what 21-year old wants to retain the embarrassing result of a brain-age of 50?

Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars

 

It is no secret that Nintendo consoles have been left out when it comes to the Grand Theft Auto franchise.  Nintendo home consoles have not seen one release from the franchise and only 4 handheld versions of the popular and controversial game franchise were released.  Out of all the versions of Grand Theft Auto that were released on Nintendo handhelds, Chinatown Wars is by far the best iteration of GTA on Nintendo systems.  Releasing Chinatown Wars on Wii U’s Virtual Console would not only breath new life into such a popular series that has seemingly forgotten Nintendo but also be the series debut on a Nintendo home console.

The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass

 

Either Zelda game would make an obvious choice, but this one makes particular sense seeing as it directly follows The Wind Waker.  The HD version is selling well on Wii U, and it’s follow-up would probably have similar success.  Even though it would need a few control tweaks, imagine how much fun it would be controlling Link with a stylus on the GamePad’s large screen!

Professor Layton

The Professor Layton series has featured 7 main games across two gaming handhelds and even spawned two spin offs.  With the wide range of puzzles and wild popularity of the Layton games, any of the Professor Layton games would be a no-brainer for Wii U’s Virtual Console service.  The Professor Layton franchise could translate very well over to the Wii U, even with the gyroscopic controls of the most recent 3DS game, thanks to the Wii U GamePad’s motion control capabilities.

Dementium II

 

Dementium II is a sequel to the classic horror game Dementium: The Ward. Created by Renegade for the Nintendo DS, Dementium II could fit perfectly on the Wii U GamePad. Over the years the Nintendo VC had its share of games but one genre that hasn’t been properly represented is survival horror. Dementium II could become the first survival horror and FPS games to release on the Nintendo

Metroid Prime: Hunters

 

With fans repeated calls for more Metroid seemingly going unanswered, this seems like an easy choice.  Not only could we play it with rumble restored as originally intended, but the second analog stick could also fix the stylus cramping complaints directed at the original.  The improved online structure of Wii U would also benefit the multiplayer, including enhanced voice chat.

The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks

 

Just like Sprit Tracks follows Phantom Hour Glass in the Zelda timeline, so should Spirit Tracks follow Phantom Hour Glass on this list.  Critically, the games margin of difference falls into that category of being too close to matter. Both feel the same but offer two different experiences. Any Zelda fan would be excited to have this game on their Wii U.

Wario Ware: Touched

 

This game is funny, colorful and VERY addictive. Its full of fast paced micro mini games, all based on touch screen controls. That alone makes it perfect for the Wii U’s gamepad. Gamers who’ve played Game & Wario for the Wii U will appreciate all of the differences and may even prefer this classic over the newer Game & Wario.