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15 Best 3DS Games That Define Nintendo’s Handheld Legacy
Explore the best 3DS games that defined an era of Nintendo handheld greatness. From RPGs to platformers, discover 15 must-play classics for every gamer.
I remember picking up my first Nintendo 3DS and being blown away by those glasses-free 3D visuals. If you're sitting there wondering whether the 3DS library is worth diving into, or you're a parent trying to figure out which games will keep your kids entertained for hours, you've come to the right place. The Nintendo 3DS isn't just another handheld console – it's home to some of the most innovative and memorable gaming experiences ever created.
Maybe you've heard people debate about the best 3DS game of all time, or you're curious about those underrated 3DS games that flew under everyone's radar. Perhaps you want to discover what Nintendo's best 3DS games actually live up to the hype. Whatever brought you here, I'm going to walk you through everything you need to know about the best 3DS games that transformed portable gaming forever.
What are 3DS Games?
Nintendo 3DS games represent a revolutionary chapter in handheld gaming history. The Nintendo 3DS sold 75.95 million units worldwide, making it one of the most successful portable consoles ever created. These games were specifically designed for Nintendo's dual-screen handheld system, which launched in 2011 and featured groundbreaking glasses-free 3D technology.
The 3DS game library spans multiple hardware variations:
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Original Nintendo 3DS - The standard model with a 3.53-inch top screen
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Nintendo 3DS XL - Larger screens for an enhanced gaming experience
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New Nintendo 3DS - Improved processing power and exclusive game compatibility
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Nintendo 2DS - Budget-friendly option without 3D functionality
The 3DS software library reached 392.23 million units sold, showcasing the incredible variety and quality that made these games special. From epic RPG adventures to innovative puzzle games, the best 3DS games pushed the boundaries of what portable gaming could achieve.
The system's unique features included:
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Dual screens with touch controls on the bottom display
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Glasses-free 3D technology for immersive visual depth
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Built-in cameras for augmented reality experiences
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StreetPass functionality for passive multiplayer interactions
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Backwards compatibility with original DS games
What made 3DS games truly special was how developers utilised these features. The best 3DS game of all time often combined traditional gameplay with innovative 3D effects and dual-screen mechanics. These weren't just regular games ported to a handheld – they were crafted experiences that could only exist on the 3DS platform.
15 Best 3DS Games That Define Nintendo's Handheld Legacy
Finding the best 3DS games means looking beyond just sales numbers. While Mario Kart 7 became the best-selling game with 18.99 million units worldwide, the true gems include both blockbusters and underrated 3DS games that deserve recognition.
#01 The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds
This isn't just another Zelda game – it's a masterpiece that redefined what the best 3DS game of all time could be. Set in the same world as A Link to the Past, this adventure introduced wall-merging mechanics that felt revolutionary on the 3DS hardware.
Why it's essential:
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Revolutionary wall-merging gameplay mechanics
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Non-linear progression that respects player intelligence
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Stunning use of 3D depth effects
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Perfect difficulty balance for newcomers and veterans
The game's rental system for items was controversial at first, but it created unprecedented freedom in how you tackled dungeons. This remains one of Nintendo best 3DS games that showcases the platform's unique capabilities.
#02 Super Mario 3D Land
Mario's first original 3D adventure on 3DS proved that the plumber could adapt to any platform. This game single-handedly demonstrated why 3D visuals mattered for gameplay, not just aesthetics.
Key features that make it special:
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Precision platforming enhanced by 3D depth perception
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Creative level design that utilises every 3DS feature
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Perfect introduction to 3D Mario for newcomers
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Hidden secrets that reward exploration
Super Mario 3D Land remains essential among the best 3DS games because it understood the hardware better than almost any other title.
#03 Fire Emblem Awakening
Before Fire Emblem became a household name, Awakening saved the entire series from cancellation. This tactical RPG combined accessibility with depth, creating one of the most beloved Nintendo best 3DS games.
What makes it extraordinary:
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Engaging tactical combat with permanent consequences
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Compelling character relationships and marriage system
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Multiple difficulty options for different skill levels
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Incredible soundtrack and voice acting
Fire Emblem Awakening proves that the best 3DS game of all time doesn't need flashy gimmicks – just solid gameplay and unforgettable characters.
#04 Pokémon X and Y
The Pokémon series made its spectacular 3D debut with X and Y, introducing a new generation of trainers to fully rendered Pokémon battles. These games modernised the franchise while respecting its classic formula.
Revolutionary elements:
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First fully 3D Pokémon adventure
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Mega Evolution system for enhanced battles
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Online trading and battling capabilities
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Massive Pokedex with over 700 Pokémon
Among underrated 3DS games, X and Y sometimes get overlooked in favour of newer entries, but they deserve recognition for transforming Pokémon forever.
#05 Animal Crossing: New Leaf
Animal Crossing: New Leaf sold 13.05 million copies, making it one of the most successful life simulation games ever created. Playing as the town mayor changed everything about the Animal Crossing experience.
Features that defined a generation:
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Mayoral responsibilities that impacted your town
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Extensive customisation options for homes and public spaces
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Seasonal events that kept players engaged year-round
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Social features that connected friends across the globe
New Leaf represents one of Nintendo best 3DS games that created lasting memories for millions of players worldwide.
#06 Mario Kart 7
Mario Kart 7 was the top-selling Nintendo 3DS game with 16.73 million units sold worldwide. This wasn't just a port – it was a complete reinvention of kart racing for portable gaming.
Innovation that drove success:
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Underwater and gliding sections that transformed track design
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Kart customisation system for personalised racing
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Online multiplayer that worked flawlessly
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Classic tracks reimagined with new mechanics
Mario Kart 7 stands among the best 3DS games because it understood that handheld gaming needed different approaches than console racing.
#07 Metroid: Samus Returns
After years of absence, Samus returned spectacularly with this complete reimagining of Metroid II. MercurySteam created one of the most polished Nintendo best 3DS games ever released.
What makes it unforgettable:
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Fluid combat system with melee counters
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Atmospheric exploration enhanced by 3D depth
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Quality-of-life improvements that modernised classic Metroid
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Boss battles that felt cinematic and intense
Samus Returns proves that even late in the 3DS lifecycle, developers could still create the best 3DS game of all time.
#08 Kid Icarus: Uprising
Masahiro Sakurai's return to Kid Icarus created one of the most unique experiences in the entire 3DS library. This action-packed adventure combined rail shooting with ground combat in ways nobody expected.
Distinctive elements:
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Dual-mode gameplay switching between flight and ground combat
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Weapon fusion system with hundreds of combinations
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Incredible voice acting and humour throughout
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AR card battles that utilised the camera creatively
Among underrated 3DS games, Kid Icarus: Uprising deserves more recognition for its ambitious design and flawless execution.
#09 Bravely Default
Square Enix created something magical with Bravely Default – a JRPG that felt both classic and innovative. This game reminded everyone why turn-based combat could still be exciting in modern gaming.
JRPG excellence includes:
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Strategic battle system with risk-reward mechanics
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A job system that encouraged experimentation
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Beautiful art style that showcased 3DS capabilities
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A compelling story that respects player intelligence
Bravely Default stands among the best 3DS games for proving that traditional JRPGs still have a place in modern gaming.
#10 Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS
Bringing the full Smash experience to handheld gaming seemed impossible, but Sakurai's team delivered one of the most technically impressive Nintendo 3DS games ever created.
Fighting game perfection:
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Complete roster with unique 3DS-exclusive modes
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Smash Run mode which combined platforming with fighting
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Local and online multiplayer that worked seamlessly
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Custom fighter creation tools
This remains the best 3DS game of all time for competitive fighting game fans who wanted console-quality battles on the go.
#11 Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate
Capcom's hunting simulator found its perfect home on 3DS, where the portable nature matched the game's grind-friendly structure. Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate represented the series at its most accessible.
Hunting excellence features:
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Vertical level design that transformed combat
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Online cooperative play for epic hunts
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Weapon variety that suited different playstyles
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A progression system that rewarded dedication
Among the best 3DS games, Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate created a community that thrived on the platform's social features.
#12 Kirby: Planet Robobot
HAL Laboratory crafted one of their finest Kirby adventures with Planet Robobot, combining classic copy abilities with mech suit gameplay. This game balanced nostalgia with innovation perfectly.
Kirby at his finest:
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Robobot Armour mechanics that enhanced classic gameplay
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Creative level design that utilised 3D depth effectively
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Copy abilities that felt fresh despite familiar foundations
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Boss battles that showcased the system's capabilities
Planet Robobot represents one of those underrated 3DS games that delivered pure joy from start to finish.
#13 Mario & Luigi: Dream Team
AlphaDream's RPG series reached new heights with Dream Team, combining overworld exploration with hilarious dream sequences. This adventure showcased why Mario RPGs remained special.
RPG magic includes:
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Dream world mechanics that utilised both screens creatively
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Timed button combat that kept battles engaging
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Character development that balanced humour with heart
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Exploration that rewarded curiosity
Dream Team stands among Nintendo's best 3DS games for its creativity and charm that appeals to all ages.
#14 Xenoblade Chronicles 3D
Monolith Soft's epic JRPG seemed impossible to port to 3DS, but the New Nintendo 3DS exclusive proved that ambitious games could work on handheld hardware.
Epic adventure elements:
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A massive world that felt endless despite hardware limitations
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Complex storyline that respects player intelligence
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Real-time combat system with strategic depth
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Soundtrack that elevated every moment
Among the best 3DS games, Xenoblade Chronicles 3D showed what the New 3DS hardware could accomplish.
#15 Shovel Knight
Yacht Club Games created a love letter to 8-bit gaming that felt completely modern. Shovel Knight proved that indie games could stand alongside first-party Nintendo titles.
Indie excellence features:
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Precise platforming that channelled classic Mega Man
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Creative boss design with memorable personalities
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Chivalrous storyline that subverted gaming tropes
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Additional campaigns that expanded the experience
Shovel Knight represents the best 3DS game of all time for players seeking challenging, rewarding platforming action.
Best 3DS Games for Kids
Finding appropriate games for younger players requires balancing fun with educational value. The best 3DS games for kids offer age-appropriate content while maintaining the quality that makes gaming enjoyable for the whole family.
Top Kid-Friendly Selections
Pokémon Series (Ages 6+) Pokémon games remain perfect introductions to RPG mechanics for children. X and Y, Sun and Moon, and Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon offer:
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Turn-based combat that teaches strategy
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Reading comprehension through story dialogue
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Collection mechanics that encourage completion
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Social features for trading with friends
Super Mario Series (Ages 4+) Mario games consistently deliver family-friendly entertainment. Super Mario 3D Land and New Super Mario Bros. 2 provide:
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Simple controls that anyone can master
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Cooperative gameplay for family sessions
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Progressive difficulty that builds confidence
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Colourful visuals that capture young imaginations
Animal Crossing: New Leaf (Ages 6+) This life simulation game teaches responsibility and creativity through:
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Daily activities that establish a routine
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Social interaction with virtual neighbours
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Creative expression through home decoration
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Time management through seasonal events
Kirby Games (Ages 4+) The Kirby series offers perfect entry points for young gamers:
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Forgiveness of difficulties reduces frustration
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Copy abilities that encourage experimentation
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Bright, cheerful art style
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Short levels are perfect for attention spans
Educational Benefits
The best 3DS games for kids provide more than entertainment:
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Problem-solving skills through puzzle-based gameplay
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Hand-eye coordination via precise platforming challenges
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Reading comprehension through story-driven adventures
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Mathematical concepts via resource management games
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Social skills through multiplayer interactions
Parental Considerations
When selecting Nintendo best 3DS games for children, consider:
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ESRB ratings that match your comfort level
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Online features and communication capabilities
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In-game purchases or microtransaction systems
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Time management tools and parental controls
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Educational value alongside entertainment
The 3DS parental controls allow customisation of:
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Friend registration and communication
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Internet browser access and usage
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Software rating restrictions
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3D display settings for eye safety
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Play time limitations and monitoring
FAQs on 3DS Games
What makes a 3DS game different from regular handheld games?
3DS games were specifically designed for Nintendo's dual-screen, glasses-free 3D system. Unlike regular handheld games, the best 3DS games utilised unique features like 3D depth perception, dual-screen gameplay, touch controls, and StreetPass functionality. These games couldn't be properly experienced on other platforms because they were built around the 3DS hardware.
Are 3DS games still worth playing in 2025?
Absolutely. The best 3DS game of all time remains just as engaging today as when it first launched. While the system is no longer in production, the game library includes timeless classics that haven't aged. Many underrated 3DS games are now being discovered by new players, and the unique 3D gaming experience can't be replicated on modern systems.
Can I play 3DS games on other Nintendo systems?
Unfortunately, 3DS games are exclusive to the 3DS family of systems due to their unique dual-screen design and 3D capabilities. However, some of Nintendo's best 3DS games have received ports or remasters on newer systems, though these versions often lose the original 3D effects and dual-screen functionality that made them special.
What's considered the best 3DS game of all time?
This varies by personal preference, but games like The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds, Fire Emblem Awakening, and Super Mario 3D Land frequently top lists. Mario Kart 7 was the best seller with 18.99 million units, while critics often praise different titles for their innovation and quality.
Do 3DS games work without the 3D effect turned on?
Yes, all 3DS games are fully playable with the 3D slider turned off. The Nintendo 2DS was specifically designed for this, proving that the games didn't depend on 3D to be enjoyable. However, some games used 3D depth for gameplay advantages, particularly in platformers where judging distances was important.
What age ratings should parents look for in 3DS games?
The best 3DS games for kids typically carry E (Everyone) or E10+ (Everyone 10 and older) ratings. Popular family-friendly series include Pokémon, Mario, Kirby, and Animal Crossing. Always check ESRB ratings and read descriptions to ensure content matches your family's preferences.
Can you still buy 3DS games in 2025?
While Nintendo discontinued 3DS production, physical games remained available through retailers and the used game market. The Nintendo eShop for 3DS closed in March 2023, so digital purchases are no longer possible. However, the vast physical library ensures these games remain accessible to new players.
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Ready to showcase your gaming expertise? Start building your website today with Wegic AI and transform your passion for the best 3DS games into an engaging online destination.
Wondering more about gaming websites? Check out the posts below:
Written by
Kimmy
Published on
Jun 23, 2025
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