Nintendo DS SDK Virtual Machine Setup

The Nintendo DS Software Development Kit (SDK) has been archived for several years, with versions spanning most of the 2000s now available online, particularly on platforms like the Internet Archive. These archives include a fairly comprehensive set of tools, but despite their public availability, there is currently no proper documentation detailing how to configure a development environment using these resources. This project aims to bridge that gap by producing detailed, step-by-step documentation for setting up a virtual machine (VM) tailored for Nintendo DS development. The setup will incorporate all necessary tools, compilers, and environment configurations, ensuring compatibility with the SDK's requirements. Given the age of the software, the VM will likely need to run on legacy operating systems like Windows XP or Windows 7 to maintain compatibility. Key Goals: - SDK Version Targeting: The primary focus will be on the most recent salvaged version of the SDK, TWL-SDK 5.5. This version, which includes support for DSi development, is effectively an updated iteration of the earlier NITRO SDK, originally only intended for standard DS development. - Proof of Setup: As proof of a successful environment configuration, a sample program will be compiled and executed within the VM. This sample program will be written in C, the primary programming language for the SDK, and its sole focus will be on demonstrating a functional build-and-run process. - Documentation Format: The main deliverable for this project will be a professionally written PDF guide, maintaining consistency with the SDK's official documentation format. The guide will cover all necessary steps for setting up the VM, configuring tools, and testing the environment with the sample program. - Active Collaboration: While the archival files are publicly available, I will actively assist in the documentation process to optimize the smoothness and accuracy of the documentation process. The ultimate purpose of this project is to make Nintendo DS development less esoteric to potential enthusiasts and developers by providing clear and user-friendly guidance for recreating the SDK environment in a modern context.