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Can the 1UP Pi-Boy XL Run Nintendo DS?

Compiled & reviewed by Urs von Gunten, HandheldWiki editorial · How we rate ·

Partly. The 1UP Pi-Boy XL can run Nintendo DS, but expect compromises. Lighter games like New Super Mario Bros. and Pokémon Platinum are playable, while demanding titles such as The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass and Nintendogs will struggle with slowdown. Workable for a patient player, not a flawless experience.

CPartly — playable, but expect compromisesOur Nintendo DS rating for the 1UP Pi-Boy XL: grade C — Playable with frameskip

What to expect

Nintendo DS gameOn this device
New Super Mario Bros.Playable
Pokémon PlatinumPlayable
Mario Kart DSPlayable
The Legend of Zelda: Phantom HourglassSlowdown
NintendogsSlowdown
Kirby Canvas CurseSlowdown

Why Nintendo DS is the test: two screens and a touch panel — the challenge is the dual-screen layout and 3D, not raw power.

Handhelds that run Nintendo DS well

Want flawless Nintendo DS? These are strong, popular picks:

Steam Deck
Valve · $399–$649
A
AMD Aerith / Van Gogh
Steam Deck OLED
Valve · $549–$649
A
AMD Sephiroth
Miyoo Mini Plus
Miyoo / Bittboy · $70
B
SigmaStar SSD202D

Where to buy the 1UP Pi-Boy XL

Typical price: $175

AliExpressAmazoneBayGoogle Shopping

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