Nintendo DS Homebrew Jam (DS Revival Jam)

Step into the world of dual screens, stylus interaction, and experimental handheld creativity.

The DS Revival Jam is a community game jam dedicated to creating original games for the Nintendo DS format — playable on emulator or real hardware via homebrew tools.

There are no limits on genre, style, or tone. Anything is welcome as long as it runs as a .nds file.

This jam is about exploring what the DS can still become in the hands of creators today.

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What you can make

• Any genre: horror, puzzle, rhythm, adventure, simulator, visual novel, experimental art
• Dual-screen or single-screen gameplay
• Stylus / touch input optional
• Experimental ideas are welcome

Allowed tools

• devkitPro / devkitARM + libnds
• PAlib
• DS GameMaker or similar tools
• Any tool that outputs a .nds file

Requirements

• Must run on melonDS / DeSmuME or real DS hardware
• Submit .nds file or source project (zip or GitHub)
• Include controls and setup instructions

Submission format

• .nds file OR source project (zip or GitHub link)
• Short description of your game
• Controls explanation

Awards

• Best Overall DS Game
• Best Visual Style
• Most Creative Idea
• Best Use of Dual Screens
• Best Audio / Atmosphere
• Most Chaotic DS Experience

Rewards (non-monetary)

• Featured on jam page
• Gameplay showcase / highlight
• Hall of DS Legends
• Winner badges for profiles
• Community spotlight posts

Philosophy

This jam is about experimentation, nostalgia, and pushing the Nintendo DS format in unexpected directions.

Small or weird projects are just as important as polished ones.