Famicom Wars DS (ファミコンウォーズDS)

• Publisher: Nintendo

• Developer: Intelligent Systems

• Platform: Nintendo DS™ (NDS™)

• Region: Japan

• Product Code: NTR-P-AWRJ

• Release Version: Japan

• Language: Japanese

• Compatibility: Works on all Nintendo DS family systems worldwide
  (DS / DS Lite / DSi / DSi XL / 3DS / 2DS – runs in DS mode)

---

Overview

Famicom Wars DS is the Nintendo DS entry in the long-running Wars strategy series, known internationally as Advance Wars. Developed by Intelligent Systems, it delivers deep, turn-based tactical gameplay with a clean interface designed specifically for the DS’s dual screens and touchscreen controls.

This Japanese release predates and differs slightly in presentation from its Western counterpart, Advance Wars: Dual Strike.

---

Gameplay Features

🗺️ Classic Turn-Based Strategy

• Grid-based battlefield combat

• Infantry, tanks, aircraft, naval units, and artillery

• Terrain bonuses and unit matchups play a crucial role

👥 Dual CO System

• Command two Commanding Officers (COs) per army

• Switch COs mid-battle to activate different abilities

• Combine strengths for strategic flexibility

✨ CO Powers & Super CO Powers

• Each CO has unique passive bonuses

• Special abilities can turn the tide of battle

• Strategic timing is essential

🖊️ DS Touchscreen Controls

• Intuitive stylus-based unit movement

• Faster command input compared to GBA titles

• Top screen used for battle view, bottom for commands and info

🌐 Multiplayer & Map Sharing

• Local wireless multiplayer

• Map editor with sharing functionality

• Online features were available at launch (now discontinued)

---

Content

• Campaign Mode with multiple factions and story chapters

• War Room for score-based challenge maps

• Versus Mode for local multiplayer

• Map Editor for custom battles

---

Differences vs. Western Release

• Title uses the Famicom Wars branding instead of Advance Wars

• Japanese-language text and menus only

• Character names and UI styling are otherwise largely identical

---

Collector Notes

• NTR-P-AWRJ is the canonical Japanese release

• Not region-locked despite being a Japan-market title

• Popular with:

  • Strategy game collectors

  • Intelligent Systems fans

  • Players seeking original Japanese packaging/art

• Less controversial than later entries, making it easier to find complete-in-box

---

Summary

Famicom Wars DS is a polished and content-rich tactical strategy game that represents the peak of the classic Wars formula. With its DS-specific enhancements, dual CO system, and Intelligent Systems pedigree, it remains one of the finest turn-based strategy titles on Nintendo handhelds.