NDS File Extension

What is NDS file?

NDS (short for Nintendo Dual Screen) extension is used by Nintendo DS game ROM files. Single NDS file stores ROM Flash Data image obtained from original Nintendo DS game ROM cartridge.

Uses of NDS files

NDS files allow user to play Nintendo game on a desktop computer using a Nintendo DS emulator. NDS files are sometimes used for storing homebrew games which can be played using flashcarts.

Programs which support NDS file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open NDS files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. NDS files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 02/21/2020

How to open file with NDS extension?

Problems with accessing NDS may be due to various reasons. Fortunately, most common problems with NDS files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Install DSemu software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening NDS files is that no program that can handle NDS files is installed on user’s system. The most obvious solution is to download and install DSemu or one to the listed programs: DeSmuME, Dualis, OpenEmu. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit DSemu website and download the installer.

Step 2. Update DSemu to the latest version

If the problems with opening NDS files still occur even after installing DSemu, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of DSemu is available. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. This can be one of the causes why NDS files are not compatible with DSemu. The most recent version of DSemu is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Nintendo DS Game ROM files with DSemu

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate NDS files with latest version of DSemu you have installed on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Change the default application in Windows

• Right-click the NDS file and choose Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where DSemu is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open NDS files and clicking OK.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• Right-click the NDS file and select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with NDS extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Verify that the NDS is not faulty

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the NDS file is valid. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Verify that the NDS in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the NDS file hinders attempts to open it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. NDS file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Verify that the NDS file’s structure is intact

Did you receive the NDS file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. It could happen the the download process of file with NDS extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Nintendo DS Game ROM file.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open DSemu

If the systems has insufficient resources to open NDS files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with Nintendo DS Game ROM file. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle NDS files.

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