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On a Nintendo DS or DS Lite, open the system settings, choose the globe icon, select English, and confirm. This changes the console’s menus and other non-game functions; it does not guarantee that every game will display in English.
Change the language on a Nintendo DS or DS Lite
- Remove any game card from the console.
- Turn on the DS with the POWER button and tap the touch screen when prompted.
- On the main menu, tap the Settings Menu Panel at the bottom middle of the screen.
- Tap the wrench icon, then tap the globe icon.
- Select English and tap Confirm in the lower-right corner.
- When the confirmation message disappears, tap Go Back, then Quit, then Yes. The console will shut down automatically to save the setting.
- Turn the DS back on. The new language takes effect after restarting, as described in Nintendo’s DS Operations Manual.
These are Nintendo’s documented steps for DS and DS Lite systems: How to Change the System Language on Nintendo DS/DS Lite System.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Nintendo DS Lite Console Handheld System Black (Renewed) | $129.95 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
![Nintendo DSi Metallic Blue Japanese version [video game]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41H9t-x6TvL._SL160_.jpg)
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Nintendo DSi Metallic Blue Japanese version [video game] | $90.30 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
![Nintendo DS Lite Polar White (Renewed) [video game]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31j3rrzt2tL._SL160_.jpg)
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Nintendo DS Lite Polar White (Renewed) [video game] | $115.16 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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Nintendo 3DS - Flame Red (Renewed) | $220.10 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
![Nintendo DS Lite Cobalt/Black (Renewed) [video game]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41YXfQ3-DeL._SL160_.jpg)
|
Nintendo DS Lite Cobalt/Black (Renewed) [video game] | $125.00 | Buy on Amazon |
What if English is not listed?
Nintendo’s DS/DS Lite instructions direct users to choose a desired language but do not list every language available on hardware sold in every region. They therefore do not establish that English is available on every Japanese-market unit. If English does not appear among the options, the cited instructions do not provide a supported method to add it.
Will changing the system language make games English?
No. The language setting affects non-game functions such as menus, according to Nintendo’s operations manual. A game’s language depends on that specific title; changing the console setting is not a translation patch. Check the game’s packaging or manual for its language information.
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- The DS Lite system is a region free device, it can plays all Nintendo DS Lite games and Gameboy Advance Games
Some games use the console language in a title-specific way. For example, Nintendo’s Nintendo Presents: Style Boutique instruction booklet says the game follows the system setting when it is English, German, French, Spanish, or Italian; with another system language, that game defaults to English. That behavior should not be assumed for other games.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.If your console is a DSi or DSi XL
The menu procedure above is for DS and DS Lite. A DSi or DSi XL has a distinct first-time setup flow with a language choice; Nintendo lists English, French, and Spanish among its options in How to Set Up the Nintendo DSi or Nintendo DSi XL for the First Time. Nintendo’s DS/DS Lite instructions are not the guide for those models.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- DS Lite doesn't just play DS games it also features an additional port for Game Boy Advance Game Paks
- Get up to 19 hours continuous gameplay on one charge
- Ready to take on the world? With Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, you can connect wirelessly, chat with friends while you play and compete with Nintendo DS owners across the globe. All you need to play is a Nintendo DS and a Wi-Fi-ready game
- Twin ultra bright LCD screens that combine crisp, punchy colors, along with touch-screen technology on the lower screen
- Powerful dual processors bring 3D graphics to life with lightning-fast rendering
Rank #4
- 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
Rank #3
- DS Lite doesn't just play DS games – it also features an additional port for Game Boy Advance Game Paks
- Get up to 19 hours continuous gameplay on one charge
- Ready to take on the world? With Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, you can connect wirelessly, chat with friends while you play and compete with Nintendo DS owners across the globe. All you need to play is a Nintendo DS and a Wi-Fi-ready game
- Twin ultra bright LCD screens that combine crisp, punchy colors, along with touch-screen technology on the lower screen
- Powerful dual processors bring 3D graphics to life with lightning-fast rendering
Rank #2
- Enjoy the largest screen size, best audio quality and thinnest design of any system in the Nintendo DS family
- Download exclusive games, clocks and calendars via the Nintendo DSi Shop
- Take pictures using either an inward or outward facing camera and chose from 11 different lenses to customize your shots
- Connect wirelessly to browse the internet, share photos and play with others
- Access your music in the AAC format off any standard SD Card
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.
