In this paper, a direct adaptive neural network control algorithm based on the backstepping technique is proposed for a class of uncertain nonlinear discrete-time systems in the strict-feedback form. The neural networks are utilized to approximate unknown functions, and a stable adaptive neural network controller is synthesized. The fact that all the signals in the closed-loop system are semi-globally uniformly ultimately bounded is proven and the tracking error can converge to a small neighborhood of zero by choosing the design parameters appropriately. Compared with the previous research for discrete-time systems, the proposed algorithm improves the robustness of the systems. A simulation example is employed to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.