DS Anywhere vs SkyEmu

DS Anywhere is a free, open-source Nintendo DS emulator that runs in a web browser. To launch software, select or drag an .nds ROM file onto the site; the maker says those files remain on your computer rather than being uploaded. BIOS files can be added in Settings for a firmware boot into the Nintendo DS main menu. Available settings cover controls, personalization, controller input, firmware, and save data. The project uses a melonDS fork compiled to WebAssembly, with a TypeScript bridge and Preact/Vite frontend. Its maker describes the project as a work in progress with unstable or incomplete features and warns about unintended behavior or lost saved data. Browser storage may evict saves, and backup or restoration is not implemented. Controller input works, but changing bindings in the interface is still planned. Cheat codes and multiplayer are future goals; reliable multiplayer may be affected by latency.

SkyEmu is a free emulator for Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, and Nintendo DS systems. It runs on Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, web, and Windows, and can load ROMs compressed in ZIP archives. Graphics options include upscaling shaders, color correction, and screen ghosting. Controls include game controllers, rumble, configurable keybinds, and mobile on-screen controls. Four persistent save-state slots include screenshot previews. A REST-like API supports asynchronous scripting and automation, and listed integrations include Retro Achievements, a RetroArch/libretro core, and Google Drive save-state sync. The web app runs locally using WebAssembly and JavaScript, keeping files on the user's machine; its service worker enables offline use on more platforms. The project describes its focus as preserving these systems for future generations while providing a good user experience. It says Game Boy Advance emulation is significantly more accurate than its Game Boy and Game Boy Color emulation. Many Nintendo DS games still have mild graphics and audio issues, and DS emulation is beta quality.