Best Nintendo DS sports games

The Matrix has 77 sports games on file for the Nintendo DS, released between 2005–2010. 64 of them support multiplayer. They're ranked below by legacy score, so the games that shaped the genre on the DS come first, with lesser-known picks further down.

Sports games bring football, baseball, hockey, golf, tennis, wrestling and more to the console, from simulation-style management to over-the-top arcade action.

Typical commitment: quick session (under an hour, or endless arcade fun). Tip: Arcade-style sports games are the easiest to enjoy today; simulation titles may have outdated rosters but still offer satisfying gameplay.