21 Years Ago, Nintendo DS Released An Iconic Shooter Fans Still Love

June 13, 2026 - 18:59

Twenty-one years ago, the Nintendo DS received a first-person shooter that still holds a special place in the hearts of handheld gamers. While the console was known for its touch-screen puzzles and quirky titles, "GoldenEye: Rogue Agent" proved that a gritty, fast-paced shooter could thrive on the small dual screens. Released in 2004 as a spin-off from the James Bond franchise, the game took a darker turn by casting players as a disgraced MI6 agent seeking revenge against the villain Auric Goldfinger.

What made "Rogue Agent" stand out on the DS was its clever use of the hardware. The bottom screen served as a radar and weapon selector, while the top screen displayed the action. This setup allowed for quick weapon swaps without pausing the game, a feature that felt ahead of its time for portable shooters. The game also included a robust multiplayer mode via local wireless, letting up to four players battle it out in classic deathmatch arenas.

Despite mixed reviews from critics who compared it to console shooters, fans remember it fondly for its ambitious design and the sheer novelty of playing a Bond-themed shooter on a bus or in a schoolyard. The game's soundtrack, composed by veteran video game musicians, added to the tense atmosphere. Today, collectors seek out the cartridge, and discussions on retro gaming forums often highlight how "Rogue Agent" pushed the DS hardware to its limits. It remains a testament to the era when developers took risks on portable systems, creating experiences that felt both familiar and entirely new.