Nintendo DS Homebrew Applications: The Top Three

The Nintendo DS is the number one handheld gaming system in circulation, and for good reason. It is quite portable, has a swell split-screen feature, rocks a touchpad and built in mic, has a plethora of amazing games available for it, and is wireless internet capable. Throw on top of all that an array of 100% free applications and games from the growing DS homebrew community, and you have quite a useful handheld indeed. However, where is one to start when trying out all these new homebrew programs? Let me point you in the direction of the three 'must have' programs that I recommend.

If you have absolutely no idea what 'homebrew' is, or how anyone could put other, legally free programs onto their Nintendo DS, listen up. It is possible to by chips called 'flash cartridges' for the DS. These accept Micro SD memory card, which can easily be synced with one's computer. The R4 card is one of the most popular cartridges, and is available online for $45. There are other flash models available as well, some easier to use than others. Homebrew programs are created by people online, and released for free download. You can download them, and install them onto the flash cartridges by just cutting and pasting. Now, let's take a look at the previously mentioned top three homebrew programs.

First off Colors is one of the most amazing DS programs available. It is a free drawing program that has a wide range of available functions. There is a zoom tool, complete color palette, wi-fi connectivity straight from DS, multi-save slot, and many other options. Together, they make Colors into a fantastic little DS application that really allows everyone, from advanced artists to kids drawing stick figures, to enjoy creating art on the Nintendo DS. Take a look at the online gallery for Colors (link below) and you'll see some of the wonderful pieces of art that users have created.