The phrase refers to the action of acquiring specific software essential for the operation of a particular cartridge designed for use with Nintendo DS consoles. This software, known as the kernel, acts as the core operating system enabling the device to interact with the game console. Version 1.18 signifies a particular iteration of this operating system. An analogous action would be obtaining an operating system update for a computer.
The act of acquiring this software provides the user with the ability to utilize the cartridge for its intended purpose, which often includes playing games and running applications. Historically, such cartridges offered a method of expanding the functionality of the original console, bypassing certain limitations or restrictions. The availability and use of these kernels were often associated with discussions concerning copyright, software preservation, and the modification of gaming hardware.
