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Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Pokémon HeartGold and Pokémon SoulSilver are Nintendo DS games. Both work on DS-family systems and, according to Nintendo, almost all DS and DSi games also work on Nintendo 3DS-family systems. Choose a DS Lite if you want access to the games’ GBA Dual Slot feature; choose a 3DS-family system if you also want to play 3DS game cards. A DSi or DSi XL plays the games too, but does not provide the DS Lite’s GBA slot.
Which handheld should you choose?
| System | HeartGold and SoulSilver DS cards | GBA Dual Slot feature | Can play 3DS game cards? |
|---|---|---|---|
| DS or DS Lite | Yes | Yes, on DS and DS Lite | No |
| DSi or DSi XL | Yes | No | No |
| 3DS or 2DS family system | Yes; DS games display in 2D at lower resolution than native 3DS games | No | Yes |
Nintendo’s guidance says almost all DS and DSi games work on 3DS-family systems. Its compatibility information and the games’ manuals distinguish the GBA-slot feature: it is available only on Nintendo DS and DS Lite. That makes the DS Lite the most direct pick if that feature matters; it is not required just to play either game. Nintendo Support: DS and DSi game compatibility on 3DS; Nintendo UK Support: playing DS games on 3DS.
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Nintendo 3DS - Cosmo Black (Renewed) [video game] | $212.00 | Buy on Amazon |
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Nintendo 3DS Handheld System - Cosmo Black (Renewed) | $209.99 | Buy on Amazon |
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What each option is best for
DS Lite: choose it for the GBA slot
The DS Lite plays HeartGold and SoulSilver and has a Game Boy Advance Game Pak slot. The games’ documented Dual Slot feature is available only when using a Nintendo DS or DS Lite. If you specifically want that feature, confirm the handheld is a DS Lite (or original DS), not a DSi-family model. The manuals identify the feature’s hardware limitation; they do not make it a requirement for the main game. HeartGold manual; SoulSilver manual.
DSi or DSi XL: choose it for DS play without Dual Slot
Both systems play these DS cartridges, but neither has the DS Lite’s GBA slot, so the games’ GBA Dual Slot feature is unavailable. Nintendo’s 2010 brochure described the DSi XL’s screens as 93 percent larger than those of the Nintendo DS Lite. That is Nintendo’s contemporaneous promotional comparison, not a current measurement or a statement about every DS or 3DS model. Nintendo DSi XL brochure (2010).
#1 Best Overall
- Features: 3D Depth Slider, Wi-Fi Capability, Nintendo 3DS Sound, Mii Maker, 3D Camera, Front & Rear Camera, Touch Screen
- Includes: AC Power Adapter, Stylus
- Wired Connectivity: Wireless
- Model Compatibility: Nintendo 3DS
3DS or 2DS family: choose it if you also want 3DS games
A 3DS-family system plays HeartGold and SoulSilver DS cards and can also run 3DS game cards. The DS games do not become 3D: Nintendo says DS software appears in 2D at lower resolution than native 3DS software. To show a DS game at its original resolution, hold START or SELECT while launching it. This changes the display mode, not the game’s compatibility. Nintendo Support: DS game display and compatibility.
Compatibility details to check before buying
DS and 3DS cards work in opposite directions
HeartGold and SoulSilver are DS cartridges, so they can run on compatible DS-family and 3DS-family hardware. A 3DS game card, by contrast, cannot run on a DS, DS Lite, DSi, or DSi XL; it requires a 3DS-family system. The 3DS-card limitation does not affect playing these DS games on a 3DS. Nintendo Support: 3DS game card compatibility.
Check the exact system and game region
Compatibility guidance covers the general case, not every title-specific exception. Nintendo UK notes that some DSi software can have regional restrictions. When buying used, check the exact console and cartridge listing and consult Nintendo’s guidance for the region and model involved rather than assuming every regional combination behaves identically.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to check on a used copy
Used listings can vary in condition and included items; the cited official compatibility material does not establish current stock, resale prices, or the condition of a particular copy. Verify the specific listing before paying.
Rank #3
- Nintendo 3DS offers a new way to play, 3D without the need for special glasses. The 3D Depth Slider lets your determine how much 3D you want to see.
- Play 3D games and take 3D pictures with Nintendo 3DS. One inner camera and two outer cameras. Resolutions are 640 x 480 for each camera. Lens are single focus and uses the CMOS capture element.
- Connect to a deeper wireless experience with SpotPass and StreetPass, giving you more exclusive content and connecting you with other Nintendo 3DS users.
- Complete with an adjustable stylus, 6 AR cards, and fun built-in software such as Face Raiders, Nintendo 3DS Sound, and the Mii Maker application.
- Use Parental Controls to restrict 3D mode for children 6 and under.
- Cartridge: Confirm the listing is for the authentic HeartGold or SoulSilver game cartridge, not just a case, manual, or accessory. Check the seller’s photos and return terms.
- Console: Confirm the exact model. A DSi or 3DS may play the game, but only the DS and DS Lite provide the documented GBA Dual Slot feature.
- Condition and included essentials: Check the console’s condition and whether a charger and stylus are included if you need them.
- Pokéwalker: Treat this as an optional accessory, not a requirement to play. Nintendo’s brochure says each game originally came with one, but a used copy may not include it. Check its condition and whether it is present if you want the original accessory experience.
The Pokéwalker connects only with HeartGold and SoulSilver, according to their official manuals. HeartGold manual; SoulSilver manual; Nintendo brochure (2010).
Quick Recap
Best Value
- This Certified Refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The resulting product includes all relevant accessories, comes
- 3D Entertainment Without Glasses- Nintendo 3DS games have incredible graphics, and you can turn down the 3D effect to any level, or turn it off completely at any time with the build-in 3D depth slider to play games in crisp, clear 2D
- Two Screens- A widescreen display on the top screen shows 800x240 pixel resolution, allocating 400*pixles for each eye to create the 3D effect. The bottom LCD touch screen operates at a resolution of 320*240
- 3D Photos, Plus More- Nintendo 3DS comes built-in with the ability to take photos in 3D. Capture eye popping images of your friends and family, have fun with filters like the Merge lens, or even use the system's AR technology and included AR Cards
Rank #4
- Item Package Dimension- 8.49999999133L x 6.099999993778W x 2.399999997552H inches
- Item Package Weight - 0.9499999992033387 Pounds
- Item Package Quantity - 1
- Product Type - VIDEO GAME CONSOLE
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
