What device is primarily used to control Pokémon Ranger’s capture mechanic?

Pokémon Ranger’s capture mechanic is primarily controlled with the Nintendo DS stylus.

Players capture wild Pokémon by drawing loops around them on the DS touchscreen. The drawn line, called the Capture Styler’s line, must remain intact while the Pokémon moves. Successful captures allow the Ranger to use a Pokémon’s field move or assistance during the adventure.

The first Pokémon Ranger was released in Japan on March 23, 2006, and later reached North America and Europe in 2006. It was developed specifically for Nintendo DS and used the system’s touchscreen as a central part of its identity rather than as a minor menu feature.

The title is not controlled with a Poké Ball accessory, and the stylus does not function like a traditional battle command selector. Pokémon Ranger’s capture system is based on real-time tracing around a target. Later entries, including Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia and Pokémon Ranger: Guardian Signs, retained touchscreen-focused capture gameplay.