Nintendo 3DS is Nintendo’s arguably one of the best handhelds courtesy pretty compact design and snappy performance. It offers a plethora of amazing games and the unique pop-in 3D technology for immersive gameplay. With a ton of games at the disposal, finding out the one that can fit into your taste could be a little tricky. But bother not, this is where our extensive roundup of the 25 best Nintendo 3DS games comes into play. So, let’s dive right in along with me to explore a variety of cool Nintendo 3DS games and pick out the ones that seem bang on for hours of fun!
Top Nintendo 3DS Games You Should Try (2020)
While some of us love to play light-hearted games, others enjoy taking on zombies in epic battles. No to mention the so-called gaming aficionados who don’t want to settle anything less than the nerve-wracking gameplay. Irrespective of whichever category you belong to, this roster has got you checked off. You are going to enjoy diving into these games. But before you do, don’t forget to check out our list of games for other Nintendo products.
Okay, with that out of the way, let’s get to our list.
1. Super Mario 3D Land
No Nintendo top games list would ever be complete without a few Mario games at all. This is why we are going to start our best Nintendo 3DS games list with one of the best Mario game available on the Nintendo 3DS, Super Mario 3D Land that takes advantage of the 3D-feature on the handheld console and brings Mario to an all new and exciting 3D adventure. This game is the continuation of the Mario Land stories where Mario goes around on a world-saving adventure in a 3D mode. This game offers the best graphics for a handheld game. If you play with the 3D on, the fireballs will just pop-out of the screen to give you an amazing gameplay experience.
2. Pokemon X
Pokemon is another one of Nintendo’s very popular franchise around the world. Not only the game but the cartoons, trading card games, etc related to Pokemon are very popular around the globe. Pokemon X introduce us to the whole new region and a whole new generation of new Pokemon including the legendary Pokemon Yveltal and Xerneas. We also see the new addition of mega-evolution in Pokemon which is the latest feature in Pokemon X. Head out on an amazing journey in an all-new world in the Pokemon X games. Both versions include a few exclusive Pokemon that are not available in the other version.
3. Fire Emblem: Awakening
Fire Emblem is a widely known name in the world of strategy games. This is one of the best turn-based game series available on the Nintendo platforms. Fire Emblem: Awakening is the first title for Nintendo 3DS in the series and it’s definitely one of the best in the franchise as well. The gameplay is as challenging as you want it to be and the storyline is really engaging. Create a party of heroes and fight the forces of evil alongside your friends. The story gets complicated but it’s really addictive and offers a high replay value.
4. Monster Hunter 4: Ultimate
What’s more fun than hunting monsters in an exotic environment? If you think that’s the most amazing thing you can do then you are going to love Monster Hunter 4: Ultimate because in this game all you have to do is hunt different monsters of different sizes. From giant dragons to huge sea kraken, everything is your prey. You will get quests to find and hunt down large monsters. You can partner up with your friends in online multiplayer and hunt down monsters together in a party for extra fun.
5. The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds
What else is more popular on the Nintendo platform other than Mario? Well, it’s simple. The Legend of Zelda series because it’s one of the most exciting games to be ever developed. It’s about the journey of a little boy who is trying to save the princess Zelda. The game combines the elements of an RPG and hack n slash in a beautifully curated world. You have to solve puzzles and defeat enemies to beat this game. The graphics are amazing and the Legend of Zelda: A Link between Worlds incorporates 3D in a whole new unique way to compliment the overall gameplay.
6. Steamworld Dig
Steamworld Dig is one of the most popular indie games on almost all gaming platforms out there. This game combines the goodness of platformer, RPG, and puzzle games together in this complete package. You start as rusty the old robo miner who wants to dig up everything to find the biggest treasure of his life. Make sure to never get stuck in the mines because if you ever get stuck then your only hope is to self destruct which will cost you half your total money. So always play it safe and keep a cool head to complete the level easily.
7. Shovel Knight
Shovel Knight is a great old-school platformer for the Nintendo 3DS in which you play as a knight who slashes his shovel to take down enemies. The game features a host of completely unique stages that are based on elements like water, air, and darkness, with each stage ending with a duel against a knight from the Order of No Quarter. The game’s retro design is quite appealing and the gameplay is fun, making Shovel Knight a must have for platformer lovers.
8. Phoenix Wright Ace Attorney: Dual Destinies
If you have ever wanted to be a lawyer (I’m sure you haven’t) but if still you at some point wanted to be a cool lawyer then Phoenix Wright is your only shot at becoming one. This franchise is popular on the Nintendo platform because of a completely unique gameplay. You solve cases by using intelligence and intellect. Dual Destinies introduces you to a few new characters and a whole new storyline. You have to keep your head cool and in the game to win all the cases in this game.
9. Pushmo
Puzzle lovers using a Nintendo 3DS should definitely get their hands on Pushmo – an action puzzle game unlike any other out there. The game is based in a park that is filled with puzzle-like climbing toys called Pushmo, with little kids trapped inside them by a trickster. Your job as the hero Mallo is to push, pull and climb your way through the park to save the trapped kids. The game features over 250 challenging puzzles, along with a host of gadgets that add to the challenge, and a studio with which you can create your own levels.
10. Mario Kart 7
Racing can never get any better than the Mario Kart gaming franchise. This is one of the best and most fun racing games to be ever developed. Forza and Need for Speed have nothing on the Mario Kart games. Mario Kart 7 is the Nintendo 3DS exclusive title and it offers the best graphics and a very exciting racing gameplay. You race against your friends and perform dirty tricks to win the race. Throw shells in their way to make sure that none of them ever reaches the finish line at all.
11. Animal Crossing new Leaf
Animal Crossing New Leaf is the latest addition to the life simulation franchise and it’s one of the highest rated games. This game has received rave reviews from different publications. Players get to build your own houses, decorate them, and live a whole life with your friends in the Animal Crossing town. You can work jobs, go to picnics, go fishing, and can do anything you want in this game. You can visit your friend’s town or have them visit yours. This game is all about creating a second life and being social with your friends and family in the game.
12. Pokemon Omega Ruby/Alpha Sapphire
This is the latest Pokemon game on the Nintendo 3DS. Pokemon Omega Ruby/Alpha Sapphire is not a new generation of Pokemon instead it’s a remake of the classic GBA version of Pokemon Ruby/Sapphire for the 3DS. However, this game brings in a new set of Pokemon that can mega evolve and a few new legendary evolutions as well. The storyline is still the same and you have to beat Team Magma/Aqua depending on your version of the game. Both versions have a few exclusive Pokemon including a legendary that’s not available in the other version.
13. Super Street Fighter 4 3D
Street Fighter is one of the oldest and the most popular fighting game franchise out there in the gaming world. The duo of Ryu and Ken is considered the best in the fighting game world by gamers from around the world. Super Street fighter 4 3D is the 3D version of the Super Street Fighter 4 game for the Nintendo 3DS. It includes a few extra characters, whole new 3D mode, and easier controls than the console counterpart of the game. You can perform super moves or ultra moves by just tapping a single button on touchscreen. This version is much more newbie friendly compared to the other versions.
14. Super Smash Bros. 4
If any game is going to rival Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat in the fighting genre then it’s definitely going to be the Super Smash Bros. game. This is one of the most played and widely popular fighting game franchise consisting of many famous Nintendo characters like Mario, Luigi, Link, even Pokemon like MewTwo, Pikachu, Charizard, etc have been featured in Super Smash Bros. Street Fighter’s own Ryu has also appeared in the game as an extra DLc that you can buy. If you want an exciting fighting game then Super Smash Bros. 4 is the way to go.
15. Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon
So much talk about Mario and nobody ever seems to acknowledge the existence of the Green Mari….I mean Luigi. He’s the older brother to Mario and does all the things that Mario does plus he can also catch ghosts, ghostbuster style. Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon is an amazing Luigi game where Luigi is tasked with catching ghosts that are haunting the mansion. The game is surprisingly funny and addictive. Each level is filled with amazing mystery and puzzles.
16. New Super Mario Bros. 2
Mario and Luigi team-up in this second installment of New Super Mario Bros. game. In the New Super Mario Bros. 2 game you can even play co-op with your friends online. One can be Mario while the other can be Luigi and you can help each other out along the way. However, you will still have to fight for the coins to get a new life.
17. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time was one of the most loved title for the Nintendo 64 and that’s the sole reason why Nintendo has released a 3D remake of the game for the Nintendo 3DS. The game brings all the amazing gameplay elements of the original title with enhanced graphics and 3D-support. You are again called upon to save the kingdom and you have to find the Ocarina of time to help you in your journey this time.
18. Kid Icarus Uprising
Pit is back for some more adventure in this 3DS version of Kid Icarus. The old-school game is back to the new platform with a new storyline and a whole new gameplay. Pit is an angel who has the power of flight and he is back in action to defeat the evil medusa. You have to help the angel in his journey to defeat darkness and restore light upon the world.
19. Tekken 3D Prime
Pick your favorite fighter and get ready to take part in the deadly Tekken competition because things are about to get really serious. Tekken Prime is the 3DS version of the arcade fighting game and it’s one of the best fighting games alongside Street Fighter. You have a plethora of characters to choose from like Jin, Kazuya, Lei, etc. Pull off intense combos to dominate your opponents.
20. Pokemon Sun and Moon
While Pokemon X and Y introduced 3D textures to the franchise, Pokemon Sun and Moon, which were released back in 2016, bring in new forms of classic Pokemon that feature different strengths, weaknesses and appearances – a nice touch that revitalizes the franchise. On top of that the games even tackles serious issues like the consumption of Pokemon by humans and they also bring back Mega Evolutions with new Z-moves into the mix. Fans of the Pokemon franchise should pick up Pokemon Sun and Moon for their 3DS without a second thought.
21. 3D Streets of Rage II
Beat the seven colors of rainbow out of all the enemies in this beat’em up game. Streets of Rage is a classic game that was first released on the Sega system, however, the Nintendo 3DS has received the 3D version of the more popular sequel, Streets of Rage II. You can get together with friends and beat your enemies to pulp with weapons or just your fists in this classic action game. The game offers amazing music and aesthetically attractive visuals.
22. 3D Out Run
Another remake of a classic Sega game that’s now available for the Nintendo 3DS. 3D OutRun is a 3D supported racing game available on the 3DS. It’s a popular racing game from the old-school days of Sega Mega Drive II, however, with the new remake it has even become a sensation on the 3DS. Choose the fastest car and outrun all your opponents in this fast paced racing game.
23. Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn
For those who are on the lookout for a light-hearted yet tricky Nintendo 3DS action-adventure game, Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn appears to be a great pick. The game is about Kirby who can transform the knitted wonders such as tanks and flying saucers instantly. And with the charismatic ravel abilities, he can drop button like bombs or wield a wire elegantly like a sword. One of my favorite features of this cool action-adventure game is the “Devilish Mode” in which devils try to hinder your path through each stage. Though it’s a bit challenging, I have loved going after it. On top of all, Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn has also got a good pack of minigames to keep your engrossed for more.
24. YO-KAI WATCH 3
If problem-solving is your forte, chances are you will love “YO-KAI WATCH 3” a lot. The game is about Nate and Hailey Anne who have to deal with vexatious Yo-Kai. Probably the most interesting thing about this game is the ability to follow two parallel stories. And with the option to discover plenty of mysteries behind strange sightings while encountering more than 600 Yo-Kai, it ensures your gaming always has something out-of-the-box challenges to take on. That’s not all, YO-KAI WATCH 3 also lets you encounter zombies and explore dungeons to unravel the truth about the mysterious ruins. Considering these goodies, I can safely say that it’s one of the top Nintendo 3DS games out there.
25. Metroid: Samus Returns
If an exciting adventure game is what you are looking for “Metroid: Samus Returns” could be worth having a go. In this action-packed side-scrolling action performer, you are playing as a legendary bounty hunter Samus Aran who is on a huge mission to eradicate Metroid evils. But can she ever succeed in her mission in the face of mysterious challenges? Well, it all depends on how smartly she carves out strategies and their spot execution. The stunning 3D visuals, atmospheric color palette, and the fascinating gameplay make Metroid: Samus Returns look more than good enough for hours of fun. And I’m sure it can live up to your taste as well.
Best Nintendo 3DS Games to Play in 2020
If you are a new Nintendo 3DS owner then you are going to fall in love with your new handheld after playing a few games from the above-mentioned list. All these games are enough for you to be hooked up to your Nintendo 3DS for months to come. What are your favorite Nintendo 3DS games? Let us know in comments section.
