A free Nintendo DS emulator for Android known for strong compatibility and speed (paid until 2025, now free).
DraStic is a Nintendo DS emulator for Android that built a reputation for strong game compatibility and solid performance, including on hardware that struggles with some other DS emulators. It was originally a paid app sold through the Google Play Store, but its developer, Exophase, removed it from the Play Store in early 2025 and made it free, with plans to eventually open-source the code.
Because it's no longer store-listed, getting DraStic today means downloading the APK from a backup or archive source rather than a live storefront — worth being extra careful about which source you trust. It still handles the DS's dual-screen setup with configurable layouts — side by side, top and bottom, or single-screen with a quick-swap button — and supports save states, fast-forward, and both touch and physical controller input.
DraStic was a paid app, but its developer removed it from the Play Store in 2025 and made it free to use.
Save your progress at almost any point and pick up exactly where you left off.
Use touch controls, or connect a Bluetooth or USB controller.
DraStic runs on a standard, non-rooted Android device.
Launch the Play Store on your Android device.
Type the app name into the search bar.
Complete the purchase (if paid) and let it install normally.
Launch it from your app drawer.
Browse to your ROM file and open it from the emulator's file menu.
No. DraStic was originally paid, but its developer removed it from the Google Play Store in 2025 and made it free to use.
It's known for strong game compatibility and performance, including on hardware that struggles with some other DS emulators.
It offers configurable layouts — side by side, top and bottom, or single-screen with a quick-swap button.
Yes. DraStic is an emulator only — you'll need your own legally owned or backed-up DS ROM files.