Expanding your playtime with R4 DS Downloads

  

Not without controversy, the R4 for Nintendo DS was released as a means of building the usage of the DS. Unlike its rival the PSP, the DS cannot play MP3s, movies, or anything like that out of the box. With this lack of features, the R4 tapped into a market that craved more from their DS. Now, with a simple internet search for “R4 DS downloads,” anyone can find back-up copies of DS games. These copies will actually be illegal to possess without a hard copy; ROMs are meant only for back-up purposes.

R4 DS downloads are easy to find, but when searching, one should search for communities dedicated to DS homebrew. Homebrew is simply a term used to describe games created by the community. Through the R4 cartridge, the community can install a wide-range of programs, games, and files. The R4 also supports MicroSD cards to make transportation even easier. Also, when downloading these roms and homebrew files, one should take great care and ensure that their virus scanner is up-to-date. Too often the online file sharing community is seen as a breeding ground to online pranksters, who sneak viruses and worms into files. With a little care, this issue can be avoided.

The process to acquire an R4 cartridge isn’t getting easier as Nintendo has begun process to ban the piece of hardware from Japanese stores, where a huge percentage of the R4 DS market lies. The problem with the R4 is that it voids officially-installed DRM, and this hurts the game companies that try to sell their product. Through an open piece of software or hardware, the piracy community is able to distribute formerly locked down software all over the internet in a quick manner. Another issue with the R4 is the ability to play Roms, which Nintendo has recently begun utilizing on WiiWare through the Virtual Console. With the ability to play Roms of past games on the DS, this trend can hurt the market share that Nintendo was hoping to tap into.

Regardless of legal ramifications, R4s are still sole and are still acquirable by anyone wanting it. R4 DS download sites have managed to spring up quickly and tap into a secret, growing market that is able to continue through these online communities. With the internet, devices like the R4, are able to be discussed publicly and openly but behind the veil of anonymity.