TheNintendo 3DSwas the fifth handheld gaming device released by the prominent Japanese gaming company and the last handheld exclusive device before introducing the hybrid Switch console. Released in 2011 and boasting a glass-free 3D experience, the 3DS continued Nintendo’s strategy of implementing extra features that are uncommon with the current trend in gaming.
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The 3DS also came in different versions that were released later, such as the 3DS XL, which featured larger screens. Still, the 3DS managed to deliver a library of fantastic games up until the end of its lifespan. Some top-tier action games for the Nintendo 3DS were only released for the little handheld console that could that you should check out if you are a fan of that genre.
10Cursed Castilla EX
A fun yet challenging retro game that is a love letter to the equally difficultGhost ‘N Goblinsseries, Cursed Castilla EX takes advantage of the 3DS stereoscopy feature by enhancing depth perception in its 2D world.
You play as the gallant knight Don Ramiro as he battles the demon horde that has invaded the Kingdom of Castile to free its people. The EX version features additional stages, enemies, and bosses as well as multiple endings.
9Kirby Planet: Robobot
Nintendo’s most powerful characteris also one whose games generally hit a home run, and Kirby Planet: Robobot continues that tradition. Even if you are not familiar with the series, Kirby Planet: Robobot offers a ton of fun if you love action platformers.
Also, this is a game where Kirby is riding a mech—that alone should make fans of the loveable pink ball curious.
What to expect from Planet Robobot Pretty much everything you would expect from a Kirby game. Fun level designs, a pastel-colored world, cuteness overload, and simple yet fun gameplay.
8Super Mario 3D Land
Often considered the best handheldSuper Mariogame, Super Mario 3D Land returned to its roots with traditional 2D platforming gameplay rather than the more open-world design ofSuper Mario 64. Think of this as the moment when Mario jumped from 2D to 3D, as the developers explicitly stated before its release.
With that in mind, Super Mario 3D Land is one ofthe best platforming gameson the 3DS. While the levels are more linear and completing levels can be done relatively quickly, the challenge and fun have always been in collecting medals and golden flagpoles.
Some unique and mandatory features include utilizing the stereoscopic 3D feature of the 3DS to solve some puzzles. This is a compact and enjoyable Super Mario game that is a perfect complement to the 3DS’ portable design.
7Cave Story 3D
An indie darling from the PC gets some Nintendo love with this 3D remake. Cave Story 3D is a fantastic translation that enhances the atmosphere by incorporating the Nintendo 3DS’ stereoscopic technology to provide you with a new and more immersive perspective of the game’s environment.
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The remake retains everything that made the original fun but with a prettier coat of paint. Controls are incredibly responsive, and level design is as wonderful, maybe even more so, than the original.
The detailed depth that the 3D visuals add to Cave Story certainly enhances the overall experience of the game.
6Metroid: Samus Returns
This is the classic 1991Metroidgame remade with tons of upgrades, both graphically and gameplay-wise. Samus Returns should be a great trip down memory lane for longtime fans and a perfect entry point for newer ones.
This remake utilizes the 3DS’ 3D features to further enhance the immersion on the hostile planet SR388. The new additions include brand-new abilities and a 360-degree free-aiming mode.
Additionally, as with every Metroid game (and its sub-genre,Metroidvania), there are tons of secrets to uncover.
5Shovel Knight
Another fantastic 2D action platformer that is oozing with charisma and hitting all the right nostalgia notes, Shovel Knight is a must-have for the 3DS. Smooth and intuitive controls, amazing pixel graphics, a catchy soundtrack, and top-tier gameplay make this game a mandatory purchase no matter what console you have (it is available on pretty much every last- and current-gen console).
Yacht Club Games delivered and exceeded expectations with Shovel Knight. This is a charming and challenging game that comes with tons of content, Easter eggs, and a genuine love letter to classic games.
4The Legend Of Zelda: Majora’s Mask 3D
One of the greatest action adventure games of all time also comes in a pocket version, which means you can relive one of Link’s best adventures anywhere. If you haven’t played Majora’s Mask yet, it is a top-tier third-person action-adventure game wherein Link needs to travel back in time to stop the moon from crashing into the planet. Yes, it is as dark as it sounds.
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Majora’s Mask 3D is a worthy remake of the classic N64 game with upgraded graphics and improved controls. This is another mandatory game for your 3DS library.
3Kid Icarus: Uprising
Developed by Project Sora, Kid Icarus: Uprising is the third installment in the Kid Icarus franchise. You once again take on the role of the angel Pit as he flies and shoots his way through an intense and fast-paced adventure to defeat the resurrected Medusa and her minions.
Kid Icarus: Uprising is the first foray into three dimensions, and the game certainly delivered on all fronts. Featuring three gameplay modes, such as an on-rail aerial shooter, third-person action, and some open-world segments to explore, Kid Icarus: Uprising is one of the best action games on the 3DS.
2Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate
Despite being on a smaller console, Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate still packs tons of content that made this action-hunting game such a huge hit. MH 4 Ultimate is also a good starting point if you haven’t played any of the newerMonster Huntergames, as it delivers that classic MH experience to help you gauge whether the crafting, hunting, and grinding will capture your interest.
Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate also features a more expansive world and controls to help create a more immersive and exciting hunting experience. Of course, newer Monster Hunter games have a more polished and fluid control system, but it was in Ultimate that these innovations first appeared.
13D Streets Of Rage
The simple and fun gameplay ofthe beat-em-up genrewill always hold a special place in old-school gamers’ hearts. One of the best in that genre is Streets of Rage, which gets a snazzy 3D version for the Nintendo 3DS.
This adaptation is, simply put, gorgeous. The 16-bit graphics melded amazingly well with the stereoscopic 3D feature and now give you a fresh new perspective of the mean streets of Wood Oak City.
Streets of Rage isn’t a one-trick pony. It offers you a whole slew of moves to beat down the baddies in style. Additions to the 3DS version include Casual Mode, which allows you to barrel your way through the game like a human tornado, and Rage Relay Mode, which switches you to a new character once your current one gets knocked out.
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