Play Nintendogs - Best Friends Online

Game Overview

Nintendogs - Best Friends is one of those Nintendo DS games that somehow makes you forget you're just tapping a screen. You start by picking out a puppy—I always went for the Dachshund—and suddenly you're brushing its fur, teaching it tricks with the microphone, and taking it for walks like it's a real dog. The way they tilt their heads when you talk to them? Ridiculously cute.

It's not just about playing fetch (though that's fun). You actually have to remember to feed them, bathe them when they get muddy, and earn money from competitions to buy new toys. I may or may not have felt guilty when I ignored my virtual pup for a few days and it gave me those sad puppy eyes. The touchscreen controls make everything feel weirdly hands-on, like you're really scratching behind their ears.

If you ever wanted a pet but couldn't have one, this game will either satisfy that urge or make it worse. Either way, you'll probably start talking to your DS like it's an actual dog.