The Best NDS Emulators for iPhone and iPad

Playing Nintendo DS games on your iPhone or iPad isn’t as complicated as it used to be. Gone are the days of jailbreaking, unstable apps, and endless workarounds. Today, emulating DS games on iOS and iPadOS is much more straightforward thanks to better sideloading options, trusted open-source projects, and even a few NDS emulators for iPhone, apps available directly through the App Store.

However, not every emulator is built in the same way.

Some offer fast performance and clean touch controls. Others focus on accuracy or advanced features like save states, cheat code support or controller compatibility. A few apps are beginner-friendly and install easily with no extra setup, while others require sideloading tools like AltStore or Sideloadly.

In this guide, we’ve handpicked the best Nintendo DS emulators for iPhone and iPad. You’ll find a mix of free and paid options, including apps that are simple enough for casual players and others that give more control to experienced users. Whether you want to relive Pokémon, explore hidden DS titles, or just try something new, there’s an emulator here that fits.

We’ve tested these options for stability, ease of use, and real-world performance. Some are polished and App Store approved. Others need a few extra steps to install, but they reward you with better features.

Let’s explore the top NDS emulators that actually work on iPhones and iPads.

15 Best NDS Emulators for iPhone and iPad

App Name	Install Method	Download
Delta Emulator	App Store	Download Now
iNDS	Sideload (AltStore)	Download Now
RetroArch for iOS	App Store	Download Now
NDS4iOS	Sideload (AltStore)	Download Now
iNDS Alt Fork	Sideload (AltStore)	Download Now
EmuBox for iOS	Sideload (AltStore)	Download Now
NewGamepad	Sideload (AltStore)	Download Now
Provenance	Sideload (AltStore)	Download Now
iEmuHub DS	Sideload (AltStore)	Download Now
Game Play Color DS Fork	Web App (Safari)	Download Now
Eclipse Emulator (DS Fork)	Web App (Safari)	Download Now
PPSSPP + DS Plugin Fork	Sideload (AltStore)	Download Now
Gearboy DS Fork	Sideload (AltStore)	Download Now
App Store Shell Emulator	App Store (when available)	Download Now
AltStore Multi-Instance Build + DS Core	Advanced Sideload (AltStore)	Download Now

1. Delta Emulator

Delta Emulator is one of the most popular ways to play Nintendo DS games on iPhone and iPad, and for good reason. It’s fast, polished, and supports multiple consoles in one clean interface, including NDS, GBA, NES, SNES, and more.

Delta stands out because it’s easy to install and use. You don’t need to jailbreak your device. Instead, you can sideload it using AltStore, which takes just a few steps and is well-documented online. Once installed, Delta feels like a native iOS app with smooth animations, responsive touch controls, and a clutter-free layout.

For DS games, Delta supports save states, fast-forward, custom button layouts, and external controllers like Xbox or PlayStation gamepads. You can play in portrait or landscape and even tweak the DS screen positions to suit your game.

One of the best features is auto-save. It remembers where you left off, even if you didn’t manually save it for quick gaming sessions on the go.

That said, Delta doesn’t offer advanced features like Wi-Fi emulation or graphical enhancements. It’s built for simplicity and reliability, not deep customization.

Also Read: The Best NDS Emulators for Android | Pokemon, Mario

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2. iNDS

iNDS is a classic Nintendo DS emulator for iOS that still holds up well today. Originally built for jailbroken devices, iNDS has evolved into a reliable sideloadable app that works on most iPhones and iPads, and no jailbreak is required.

Once installed using tools like AltStore or Sideloadly, iNDS gives you quick access to your DS games with a clean, responsive interface. It automatically organizes your ROMs and even offers the option to search and download games directly from within the app (though this feature may vary depending on your version).

The emulator supports save states, autosave, cheat codes, frame skipping, and external controller support. You can also customize the DS screen layout, making it easier to view both screens on your iPhone or iPad. Touch controls are fully responsive and can be repositioned or resized based on your preference.

In terms of performance, iNDS runs most 2D DS games smoothly. Heavier 3D titles may lag on older devices, but newer models handle them better. It doesn’t offer advanced 3D enhancements like desktop emulators, but for casual DS gaming on iOS, iNDS gets the job done.

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3. RetroArch for iOS

RetroArch is more than just a DS emulator; it’s a full platform that supports dozens of retro systems through “cores,” including DeSmuME and melonDS for Nintendo DS. It runs on iPhone and iPad through sideloading, and while the setup takes a few extra steps, the payoff is big for users who want flexibility.

Once installed via AltStore or Sideloadly, RetroArch allows you to load your DS ROMs through one of its DS cores. You can customize almost every aspect of your gaming experience: screen layouts, button mappings, save/load states, shaders, and more. It also supports external controllers, fast-forward, and cheat codes.

The real power of RetroArch is in its multi-console support. If you’re into emulating more than just DS, this app can handle GBA, SNES, PS1, and several other systems, all within the same interface.

However, the learning curve is steeper. RetroArch’s interface isn’t as beginner-friendly as Delta or iNDS. You’ll need to download cores, configure input settings, and manually manage your games. But for those who like control and customization, it’s one of the most powerful emulators on iOS.

Also Read: 15 Best NDS Emulators for Windows | Play Pokemon, Mario & More

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4. NDS4iOS

NDS4iOS was one of the first Nintendo DS emulators to make waves on iOS, long before sideloading became common. While it’s no longer actively maintained, the app still works on many iPhones and iPads through sideloading and remains a favorite for those looking for a simple, old-school emulator.

Installation requires AltStore or a similar sideloading tool. Once installed, NDS4iOS offers a clean interface with support for ROM loading, save states, autosave, external controllers, and basic cheat codes. There’s no App Store version, so users must manually manage files and settings.

Where NDS4iOS still shines is in its ease of use. The setup is lightweight, and the app launches quickly. Touch controls are built-in, and you can adjust the DS screen layout for better viewing on mobile. Most 2D games run smoothly, while heavier 3D games may show frame drops on older devices.

There are limitations. You won’t find visual enhancements, multiplayer support, or frequent updates. However, for users who want a minimal and familiar DS emulator without extra features getting in the way, NDS4iOS still delivers.

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5. iNDS (Alt Fork)

The iNDS Alt Fork is a modernized version of the original iNDS emulator, maintained by independent developers to improve stability, support newer iOS versions, and fix bugs left behind in abandoned builds. It’s still sideload-only, but it offers a much smoother experience on both iPhone and iPad.

This fork retains everything that made iNDS popular: save states, autosave, cheat support, controller mapping, and screen layout adjustments, but it performs better on newer devices. It also brings improved compatibility with 3D-heavy games and offers better touch responsiveness.

Installation requires AltStore or Sideloadly, and once it’s up and running, you’ll notice a cleaner UI, fewer crashes, and quicker load times compared to the legacy version. While it still doesn’t offer fancy enhancements like filters or Wi-Fi emulation, it checks all the boxes for casual and moderately serious DS gaming on iOS.

The Alt Fork version is hosted on GitHub or community forums, so users should ensure they download from a trusted source. The setup process is similar to iNDS, but the benefits are well worth the extra step.

Also Read: The Best NDS Emulators for Mac

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6. EmuBox for iOS

EmuBox is a multi-console emulator originally developed for Android, but several community-backed versions now run on iOS and iPadOS via side loading. While it’s not as mainstream as Delta or RetroArch, EmuBox offers a clean and versatile experience for users looking to emulate Nintendo DS, Game Boy Advance, SNES, and more, all in one app.

Installation requires AltStore, and while there are various forked builds circulating on GitHub, most versions are stable and optimized for newer iPhones and iPads. EmuBox features a modern design with quick access to ROMs, customizable control layouts, save/load states, and external controller support.

For DS games, performance is decent. 2D titles run smoothly, and the app handles basic 3D rendering well enough on devices with stronger chips. While it doesn’t offer high-end emulation options like melonDS or shaders, it makes up for it with simplicity and clean navigation.

The emulator also supports auto-save, fast-forward, and cheat codes for most supported consoles, though cheat databases may vary by version. For users who want one app to handle multiple retro systems, not just DS, EmuBox is a lightweight, tidy option worth exploring.

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7. NewGamepad

NewGamepad is a lesser-known, multi-console emulator that has quietly gained attention for its sleek interface and support for several systems, including Nintendo DS, GBA, PS1, and more. While it’s not available on the App Store, it can be sideloaded on iPhones and iPads using AltStore or third-party installers.

What sets NewGamepad apart is its user interface. It’s visually polished and touch-friendly, making it feel more like a native iOS app than many other sideload-only options. ROMs are neatly organized, and the menu layout is simple enough for anyone to navigate without a manual.

For Nintendo DS games, NewGamepad supports save/load states, screen rotation, custom control mapping, and external controller input. Performance is fairly strong across 2D games and light 3D titles, especially on newer iPhones and iPads.

However, NewGamepad doesn’t get regular updates, and some builds floating around online can be outdated or buggy. It’s also a little less customizable compared to RetroArch or Delta; you won’t find shader support or multiplayer options.

Still, for casual gaming across multiple platforms in a slick, modern wrapper, NewGamepad is a great pick, especially for users who prioritize simplicity and aesthetics.

Also Read: The Best GBA Emulators for PC: Windows and Mac

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8. Provenance

Provenance is a powerful, open-source emulator for iOS and iPadOS that supports a range of retro consoles, including Nintendo DS, through integrated cores. It’s a clean and well-maintained project that runs smoothly on both iPhones and iPads, and it’s especially appealing to users who want a centralized app for multiple platforms.

To install Provenance, you’ll need to use AltStore or a sideloading tool like Sideloadly. Once installed, you’ll find a modern interface that organizes your ROMs by console, complete with cover art, game info, and smooth navigation. It’s almost like having a mini console library in your pocket.

Provenance supports save/load states, autosave, cheat codes, and external controller mapping. The dual-screen layout for DS games is adjustable, and touch controls are easy to manage. The app also performs well with most DS titles, particularly on newer devices, where the extra processing power improves speed and rendering.

Though it doesn’t match the advanced features of RetroArch or the deep system accuracy of melonDS, Provenance makes up for it with ease of use, polish, and steady development. It’s a great middle-ground emulator for users who want performance without complexity.

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9. iEmuHub DS (via AltStore)

iEmuHub DS is a Nintendo DS emulator offered through iEmuHub, a third-party source that distributes sideload-ready versions of popular emulators. While it’s not as polished as Delta or RetroArch, this version of NDS emulation focuses on accessibility and ease of setup, perfect for users who want to try DS games on iPhone or iPad without diving into technical settings.

It runs through AltStore, and the sideloading process is straightforward. Once installed, the app features a clean interface with options to load ROMs, use save/load states, and even enable cheats. It also includes basic controller support, allowing you to pair a Bluetooth controller for more comfortable play.

Performance is decent, especially for 2D DS games. Heavier 3D games might run into frame drops, depending on your device. iEmuHub DS doesn’t offer many advanced options, no screen filters, no multiplayer, and limited customization, but for simple gameplay, it does the job.

The app does rely on the stability of the iEmuHub platform, so updates and long-term support can vary. Still, for users who want a minimal, quick-start DS emulator on iPhone or iPad, it’s a solid option worth considering.

Also Read: The Best GBA Emulators for iPhone and iPad

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10. Game Play Color DS Fork

Game Play Color was originally built for Game Boy and Game Boy Color emulation, but community developers have forked and modified versions to support Nintendo DS games, especially on modern browsers and via progressive web app (PWA) setups on iPhone and iPad.

Unlike most emulators on this list, this fork doesn’t require AltStore or sideloading. Instead, you install it as a web app directly from Safari by visiting the hosted link and tapping “Add to Home Screen.” Once added, you can import DS ROMs from Google Drive and start playing right from your iOS device.

The experience is surprisingly fluid for a browser-based emulator. It supports touch controls, save states, and autosave. For simple games like New Super Mario Bros. or Pokémon Mystery Dungeon, the performance is smooth and responsive. However, 3D games or those requiring fast rendering can feel sluggish or glitchy.

Because it runs through Safari, there are limitations, such as no controller support, no cheats, and fewer layout options. But for users who don’t want to sideload, jailbreak, or mess with certificates, the Game Play Color DS fork offers one of the easiest ways to start playing DS games on an iPhone or iPad.

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11. Eclipse Emulator (with DS Support)

Eclipse is a web-based, open-source emulator that runs directly in Safari, with no sideloading or app installation. While originally built for Game Boy Advance, Eclipse has seen experimental forks and DS core integration that allow it to run Nintendo DS games as well, making it one of the easiest options for casual play.

Setup is quick: visit the Eclipse site, tap “Add to Home Screen,” and start uploading ROMs from Google Drive or local storage. Once imported, the games can be played directly in your browser using responsive touch controls. No configuration or developer tools are required.

The interface is clean and optimized for mobile. It supports save/load states, screen orientation switching, and a few performance tweaks. It’s ideal for quick play sessions, especially for simpler or 2D DS games.

However, as with other web-based emulators, Eclipse has limitations. It doesn’t offer controller support, cheats, or deep customization. 3D performance can be spotty depending on the game, and this DS support is still considered in testing, meaning not every title will load or run smoothly.

Still, if you want to test DS games without touching AltStore, Eclipse is one of the smoothest web-first emulator experiences on iPhone or iPad.

Also Read: The Best GBA Emulators For Android

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12. PPSSPP + DS Plugin Fork

PPSSPP is best known as the gold standard for PSP emulation, but several forks now exist that incorporate Nintendo DS plugin support, allowing it to serve as a lightweight multi-console emulator, especially through sideloading on iOS and iPad.

While the official App Store version of PPSSPP doesn’t support DS games, sideloadable builds found through GitHub or trusted community repositories include experimental DS support via plugins. This means that, on newer iPhones or iPads, you can load DS ROMs alongside your PSP collection, all inside one unified interface.

Installation requires AltStore or Sideloadly, and once installed, DS games appear alongside your regular ROMs. You can configure on-screen controls, save states, and even connect external controllers. Performance is generally smooth for 2D DS games, though 3D-heavy titles may be hit or miss depending on the build and device.

While the DS support isn’t as refined as dedicated emulators like Delta or iNDS, it’s ideal for users who already use PPSSPP and want an all-in-one gaming hub without installing multiple emulators.

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13. Gearboy DS Fork

Gearboy is a lightweight, open-source Game Boy emulator that’s been forked by the iOS emulation community to include basic Nintendo DS support. Though the original Gearboy focuses on GB/GBC games, this fork attempts to bring DS functionality into a minimalist, battery-efficient emulator for iPhones and iPads.

Designed to be light on resources, the DS fork runs best on lower-end or older devices where larger emulators might struggle. It’s available only via sideloading through tools like AltStore and is distributed via GitHub or emulator forums.

The interface is simple, in fact, almost barebones, with limited customization. It supports ROM loading, manual save/load states, and basic touch controls. Screen layouts are static, and there’s no multiplayer, cheats, or controller remapping.

That said, small DS games, especially 2D platformers or puzzle titles, work surprisingly well. Think Yoshi’s Island DS or Kirby: Canvas Curse, not Mario Kart DS. If you just want a lightweight app that boots quickly and lets you jump into a game without configuring much, Gearboy’s DS fork is a handy option.

Also Read: How to Download & Install GBA4IOS on any iPhone and iPad

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14. NDS Emulator App (App Store Shell)

Occasionally, emulators for Nintendo DS sneak onto the App Store disguised as file managers, calculators, or mini-games. These are often known as “App Store shells,”  apps that appear to serve one purpose but unlock emulator functionality once you upload a ROM or enter a secret menu.

One recent example included a notes app that, once a specific action was triggered, allowed users to load NDS ROMs and play them directly within the app. These types of apps are appealing because they don’t require sideloading, work on both iPhones and iPads, and offer surprising stability.

However, this comes with risk. Apple often removes these apps quickly, and functionality can break after updates. Features are usually limited: expect basic ROM loading, save states, and touch controls, but no controller support, multiplayer, or visual enhancements.

If you can find one currently available on the App Store, it may be worth trying, but do it with realistic expectations. You won’t get the power of Delta or RetroArch, but you might find a quick, no-hassle way to play your favorite DS games for a while.

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15. AltStore Multi-Instance Build with DS Core

The standard AltStore setup lets you sideload up to three active apps on your iPhone or iPad at a time, but with a multi-instance AltStore build, some advanced users have managed to sideload multiple emulators, including forks with dedicated DS core support, all running in parallel.

This setup is more of a power-user approach and isn’t available by default. It involves using tools like AltServer with multiple Apple IDs or alternate AltStore builds pre-configured with different emulators (e.g., Delta with enhanced DS support, standalone melonDS forks, or custom UI wrappers). These builds are typically hosted on GitHub or community repositories.

Once installed, these emulators function like any other sideloaded app, offering touch controls, save states, and sometimes Bluetooth controller support. Depending on the core used, performance can be excellent, especially for 2D games, and visual layouts are often customizable.

It’s not for beginners. You’ll need patience and some technical know-how to install and maintain multiple sideloaded builds. But if you’re looking for maximum flexibility, this is a great way to test and compare various DS emulation cores on your iPhone or iPad.

Also Read: Candy Crush Alternatives for iPhone: 10 Best Tile-Matching Games

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Which are the Best NDS Emulators for iPhone/iPad: Let’s Compare

App Name	Price	Install Method	Save/Load States	Controller Support	iPad Compatibility	Ease of Use	Best For
Delta Emulator	Free	Sideload (AltStore)	Yes	Yes	Yes	Very Easy	Clean UI and multi-console support
iNDS	Free	Sideload (AltStore)	Yes	Yes	Yes	Easy	Classic DS emulation for casual users
RetroArch for iOS	Free	Sideload (AltStore)	Yes	Yes	Yes	Hard	Custom setups and multi-system emulation
NDS4iOS	Free	Sideload (AltStore)	Yes	Yes	Yes	Easy	Quick install and simple gameplay
iNDS Alt Fork	Free	Sideload (AltStore)	Yes	Yes	Yes	Easy	Modernized iNDS with better stability
EmuBox for iOS	Free	Sideload (AltStore)	Yes	Yes	Yes	Easy	Multi-console emulation in one app
NewGamepad	Free	Sideload (AltStore)	Yes	Yes	Yes	Very Easy	Stylish UI and simplicity
Provenance	Free	Sideload (AltStore)	Yes	Yes	Yes	Easy	Organized ROM library and clean design
iEmuHub DS	Free	Sideload (AltStore)	Yes	Yes	Yes	Easy	Minimalist setup and basic gameplay
Game Play Color DS Fork	Free	Web App (Safari)	Yes	No	Yes	Very Easy	Quick, browser-based gaming
Eclipse Emulator (DS Fork)	Free	Web App (Safari)	Yes	No	Yes	Very Easy	PWA lovers and light gaming
PPSSPP + DS Plugin Fork	Free	Sideload (AltStore)	Yes	Yes	Yes	Moderate	Combo PSP/DS emulation
Gearboy DS Fork	Free	Sideload (AltStore)	Yes	No	Yes	Easy	Lightweight 2D gameplay
App Store Shell Emulator	Free	App Store (when live)	Yes	No	Yes	Very Easy	Temporary emulator access via App Store
AltStore Multi-Instance Build + DS Core	Free	Advanced Sideload (AltStore Forks)	Yes	Yes	Yes	Hard	Advanced users with multiple DS forks

Also Read: Pitaka MagEZ Car Mount Lite/Pro Review

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Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]

Wrapping up: The Best NDS emulators for iPhone and iPad

Playing Nintendo DS games on iPhone or iPad no longer feels like a technical headache. Whether you’re a casual gamer or someone who wants full control over layouts, saves, and performance, there are more stable, flexible, and user-friendly options available today than ever before.

From polished sideloadable apps like Delta and Provenance to more advanced platforms like RetroArch or multi-instance AltStore forks, iOS has evolved into a legitimate emulation space. Even web-based tools like Eclipse and Game Play Color DS Fork offer surprisingly smooth gameplay, and no app installation is needed.

The key is choosing what fits your style. If you want simplicity and speed, go with Delta or a web app. Prefer deeper features and controller support? RetroArch or PPSSPP with DS plugins might be your lane. Just want a lightweight way to revisit Pokémon on your iPad? Provenance and iNDS forks are more than enough.

No jailbreaks, no unsafe downloads, just clean, playable experiences tailored to your device and comfort level.

We’ve done the testing and research, so you don’t have to. Now, all that’s left is to load up your favorite DS classic and play.

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