Nintendo 3DS Games Guide
Game title
Different game titles cater to different preferences and interests. For action-adventure enthusiasts, the The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D is a must-play with its rich storyline, immersive gameplay, and stunning 3D graphics. For those who prefer puzzle-solving and brain teasers, Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask offers a unique blend of puzzle-solving and mystery solving. Sports lovers can turn to Mario Kart 7 for nail-biting racing action with a wide range of characters and tracks. Lastly, for fans of simulation games, Animal Crossing: New Leaf allows players to create their own virtual village and interact with adorable anthropomorphic animal characters. Each game title offers a unique gaming experience for Nintendo 3DS users.
Genre
Whether you prefer action-packed adventures, strategic puzzle-solving, or immersive role-playing experiences, each genre offers unique gameplay mechanics and storylines that cater to various interests. For example, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D is a must-have game for fans of action-adventure titles. With its captivating story, challenging quests, and iconic dungeons, this game offers a truly immersive gaming experience. On the other hand, if you enjoy puzzle games that test your logic and problem-solving skills, classics like Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask offer a delightful blend of mind-bending puzzles and engaging mystery narratives. Additionally, if you're a fan of role-playing games, Pokemon X and Pokemon Y provide vast worlds to explore, capturing and battling hundreds of Pokemon, and challenging gym leaders to become the ultimate Pokemon trainer.
Age rating
Nintendo assigns these ratings to ensure that the content of the games is appropriate for different age groups. For young children (ages 3 and up), Pokémon Sun and Moon is a great option. It is a non-violent game that focuses on collecting and battling different Pokémon. For older children (ages 7 and up), Animal Crossing: New Leaf is a popular choice. This game allows players to create their own virtual world and engage in activities like fishing, bug catching, and fossil hunting. Teenagers (ages 13 and up) might enjoy The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D, an action-adventure game that features puzzles, combat, and exploration. Other games suitable for teenagers include Fire Emblem Awakening and Kid Icarus: Uprising.
Multiplayer capabilities
The system allows for local wireless play and online play, offering different ways to connect and play with friends or other players. If you are looking for a game with strong multiplayer features and the ability to play with others locally, Mario Kart 7 is an excellent choice. With its Five different multiplayer modes and the ability to connect with up to eight players wirelessly, you can race against your friends in a thrilling and competitive environment. Another game worth considering is Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS, which supports up to four players in its local wireless play, allowing you to battle it out with your friends in epic fighting matches. Being aware of the multiplayer capabilities of a Nintendo 3DS game can enhance your gaming experience and create memorable moments with friends.
Single-player mode availability
Single-player games offer an immersive gaming experience for those who prefer to play alone or for those moments when you don't have access to multiplayer options.
One example of a single-player game is 'Animal Crossing: New Leaf', where players can create and manage their own virtual town. The game offers a myriad of activities such as fishing, bug catching, and fossil hunting, providing endless hours of gameplay. Another option is 'The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D', a remake of the classic Nintendo 64 game. This adventure-based game allows players to navigate through various dungeons, solve puzzles, and engage in epic battles. Both of these games provide engaging single-player experiences that can be enjoyed for hours on end.
Game length
Game length refers to how much time it takes to complete a game from start to finish. Some players prefer shorter games that they can quickly complete and move on, while others enjoy longer games that provide more hours of gameplay. For those looking for shorter games, titles like 'Super Mario 3D Land' and 'The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds' are great options. Both games offer a captivating experience that can be completed within 20-30 hours, making them perfect for players with limited time. However, if you're looking for a longer, more immersive gaming experience, games like 'Persona Q: Shadow of the Labyrinth' and 'Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate' provide content that can keep players engaged for over 100 hours. These games offer deep storylines, multiple quests and missions, and expansive game worlds to explore, providing hours of entertainment for those seeking a lengthier gameplay experience.
Difficulty level
Some players may prefer a challenging experience that tests their gaming skills, while others may prefer a more relaxed and casual gameplay. The difficulty level can greatly impact the overall gaming experience and enjoyment. For example, if you are looking for a challenging and strategic game, Fire Emblem: Awakening is an excellent choice. It offers tactical battles where players need to carefully plan their moves and make critical decisions. On the other hand, if you prefer a more relaxed gameplay, Animal Crossing: New Leaf might be more suitable. This life simulation game allows players to freely explore and customize their virtual town without any time constraints or difficult challenges. Overall, understanding the difficulty level before purchasing a Nintendo 3DS game will ensure that you have an immersive and enjoyable gaming experience.
Storyline
A captivating and immersive storyline can make a game truly memorable and enjoyable. Some games feature epic narratives that take players on a grand adventure, while others have more intimate and personal stories. One fantastic example of a game with an incredible storyline is "Fire Emblem Awakening". This tactical role-playing game incorporates elements of strategy and decision-making into its engaging plot. Another great option is "The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D", which follows the heroic journey of Link as he battles through dungeons, solves puzzles, and challenges a malevolent force to rescue Princess Zelda.
Other Nintendo 3DS games can be categorized based on their storyline into different segments. In the puzzle genre, products like "Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask" and "Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy" offer intriguing mysteries to solve. For simulation enthusiasts, "Animal Crossing: New Leaf" provides a slice-of-life experience with a charming storyline centered around community and personal growth.
Graphics quality
Pay attention to the resolution, pixel density, and overall visual fidelity offered by the game. One example of a game with exceptional graphics quality is 'The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds.' This game features stunning 3D graphics that beautifully bring the world of Hyrule to life. Another noteworthy title is 'Fire Emblem: Awakening,' which boasts gorgeously detailed character models and impressive battle animations. Additionally, 'Super Mario 3D Land' is lauded for its vibrant and colorful graphics that enhance the Mario gameplay experience. These examples showcase the high level of graphics quality available in the various genres of Nintendo 3DS games on the market.
Audio quality
Look for games that offer immersive sound by using advanced audio technology, such as stereo speakers or 3D sound. A great example is The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D, which features the use of rich orchestral music and realistic sound effects. The game also supports the use of headphones, allowing players to fully immerse themselves in the stunning audio environment. Pokemon Sun and Moon is another excellent choice, as it offers crisp and clear audio with catchy background tunes and superbly executed battle sound effects.
Control options
Different games utilize various control schemes like the traditional button controls, touch screen input, or even motion controls. For players who prefer a more traditional gaming experience, consider titles that rely heavily on button controls. Games such as 'The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D' and 'Super Mario 3D Land' offer smooth and classic gameplay using the system's buttons and joystick. On the other hand, if you enjoy using the touch screen, opt for titles like 'Animal Crossing: New Leaf' and 'Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask', which take full advantage of touch screen interactivity.'s As for motion controls, games like 'Mario Kart 7' and 'Star Fox 64 3D' provide an immersive experience through the tilt and gyro sensors available on the Nintendo 3DS. Whichever control option you enjoy the most, there are numerous titles available that cater to your preferred playstyle.
Game language options
This is particularly important for those who prefer playing games in their native language or want to improve their language skills by playing games in a foreign language. Some games offer a wide range of language options, including English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Japanese. For example, games like Animal Crossing: New Leaf and Pokémon Sun and Moon are popular choices that feature multiple language options. These games provide players with the flexibility to choose their preferred language for an immersive gaming experience.
Amiibo compatibility
Amiibo is a line of NFC figurines designed for various Nintendo games, including special editions of popular franchises like Super Mario, The Legend of Zelda, and Pokémon. These figures can be used to unlock exclusive content, enhance gameplay features, and even bring beloved characters into the virtual world.
There are different groups of Nintendo 3DS games that offer Amiibo compatibility. The first group includes mainstream titles such as Animal Crossing: New Leaf, where Amiibo figures like the Isabelle or Tom Nook can unlock new items and mini-games. Another set of games belongs to the Super Smash Bros. franchise, where Amiibo fighters can be trained and customized to compete against friends or AI opponents. Notable titles in this category include Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS or the recently released Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, which allows cross-platform compatibility with the Nintendo Switch version of the game. For fans of classic RPGs, games like Fire Emblem Fates and Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia allow players to summon special characters using their corresponding Amiibo. By considering Amiibo compatibility when selecting Nintendo 3DS games, you can enhance your gaming experience and unlock additional features unique to these versatile figurines.
Downloadable content availability
DLC expands the gameplay and adds new levels, characters, or features to the game, providing a longer and more immersive gaming experience. Certain games have a wide range of DLC available, such as Animal Crossing: New Leaf, which offers additional clothes, furniture, and seasonal events to enhance the virtual village experience. Additionally, Fire Emblem: Awakening provides DLC maps and characters that can be unlocked to broaden the strategic battles in the game. Nintendo's eShop is a hub for downloading these additional contents, making it easy to access and enjoy the DLC for various games.
Online multiplayer
Online multiplayer allows players to connect and compete with others around the world, enhancing the gaming experience and offering endless entertainment. Some Nintendo 3DS games that excel in online multiplayer and provide a seamless experience include Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon which allows players to engage in battles and trades with other trainers globally. Another noteworthy game is Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate which offers cooperative multiplayer hunts where players collaborate to slay powerful creatures. These games showcase the 3DS's impressive online capabilities, providing hours of competitive and cooperative fun for gamers of all ages.
System compatibility
The Nintendo 3DS family includes multiple consoles, such as the Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo 3DS XL, and the newer Nintendo 2DS XL. It's important to ensure that the games you choose are compatible with your specific console.
Some games on the market are only compatible with certain consoles within the Nintendo 3DS family. For example, Fire Emblem Fates is compatible with all consoles in the family, while Ever Oasis is compatible with the newer Nintendo 2DS XL and Nintendo 3DS systems. Another group of games is specifically designed for the New Nintendo 3DS XL, such as Xenoblade Chronicles 3D, taking advantage of the enhanced processing power of this console to deliver a higher-quality gaming experience. When considering system compatibility, it's essential to check the game's packaging or online specifications to make sure it will work with your Nintendo 3DS console.
Physical cartridge/ digital download options
Physical cartridges give you the advantage of being able to collect and trade games, while digital downloads offer the convenience of having all your games stored on your device.
For physical cartridges, the Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon games are highly popular choices. These games come with exclusive Pokémon and an expanded storyline, allowing players to explore the Alola region. Another great option is The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D, a classic adventure game that has been remastered for the Nintendo 3DS. It features improved graphics and utilizes the device's 3D capabilities for an immersive gameplay experience.
If you prefer digital downloads, Animal Crossing: New Leaf is a highly recommended game. In this life simulation game, players assume the role of a customizable character who moves to a new town inhabited by anthropomorphic animals. You can perform various activities like fishing, bug catching, and fossil hunting, and build relationships with the town's residents. Another popular digital download option is Mario Kart 7, the latest installment in the beloved racing franchise. It offers a wide range of race tracks, customizable vehicles, and multiplayer modes for endless racing fun.
Virtual reality capabilities
Virtual reality (VR) allows players to immerse themselves in a realistic and thrilling gaming experience. Some popular VR 3DS games include Super Mario 3D Land, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D, and Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire.
These games offer stunning visuals and utilize the 3DS's 3D display to provide a depth and immersion like no other. For instance, Super Mario 3D Land revolutionizes the platforming genre by blending traditional Mario gameplay elements with 3D effects, making the stages come alive. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D is a remastered version of the classic game, offering incredible visuals and allowing players to explore the vast open world of Hyrule. Lastly, Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire bring the iconic Pokémon franchise into a VR-like experience, allowing players to catch, battle, and train Pokémon in stunning 3D environments. These games demonstrate the potential of VR capabilities on the 3DS and provide players with an enhanced and immersive gaming experience.
Wireless communication
The Nintendo 3DS features both local wireless and online multiplayer options, allowing players to connect with others for cooperative or competitive play. Local wireless allows players to connect directly with other Nintendo 3DS systems in the vicinity, while online multiplayer allows players to connect with individuals from around the world through the Nintendo Network.
For local wireless multiplayer, games such as Mario Kart 7 and Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS are excellent options. These games utilize the local wireless function to allow players to race against or battle each other in real-time, enhancing the gaming experience with friends or family.
For online multiplayer, games like Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate and Fire Emblem: Awakening offer robust online features. Players can form parties or teams with other players worldwide and embark on epic adventures or engage in strategic battles. These games take advantage of the online capabilities of the Nintendo 3DS, providing endless opportunities for multiplayer gaming.
Game save options
Some games utilize traditional manual saving, while others offer automatic or multiple save slots. It is crucial to choose games that fit your personal preferences and gaming style. For example, Pokemon X and Pokemon Y provide automatic saving, allowing players to continue their adventure seamlessly. On the other hand, games like Animal Crossing: New Leaf and Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate offer multiple save slots, ideal for those who want to create and manage different game progress files. These game save options provide flexibility and convenience for players with various gaming needs.
Customization features
These features allow players to personalize their gaming experience and make it truly their own. One great example of a game with extensive customization features is Animal Crossing: New Leaf. Players can customize their character's appearance, design their own furniture, and even create their own dream towns. This level of customization adds a unique and immersive element to the gameplay, keeping players engaged and entertained for hours on end. Another game that offers impressive customization options is Pokémon Ultra Sun. Players can customize their character's outfits, as well as their Pokémon's appearance through features like changing clothes and applying accessories. These customization options enhance the overall gameplay experience and allow players to create their very own Pokémon journey.
Replay value
Replay value refers to the ability of a game to provide entertainment even after completing it once, by offering different challenges, alternate storylines, or multiplayer modes. One such game that excels in replay value is The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D. This critically acclaimed game not only boasts an engaging main storyline but also offers a Master Quest difficulty mode, Time Trial challenges, and a Boss Mode that tests your skills. Another example is Animal Crossing: New Leaf which provides an open-ended gameplay experience wherein players can customize their town, undertake different tasks, interact with villagers, and participate in seasonal events, ensuring endless hours of entertainment. Both these games, with their expansive worlds, side quests, and additional game modes, offer considerable replay value to keep players hooked for numerous playthroughs.
Unlockable items or characters
Unlockable items or characters add a layer of excitement and replay value to the game, as they provide incentives for players to delve deeper into the gameplay and explore different strategies. For example, Fire Emblem: Awakening offers a plethora of unlockable characters, each with their own unique abilities and storylines, encouraging players to discover all the secrets of the game. Another notable game with unlockable characters is Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS, where players can unlock a variety of fan-favorite characters simply by playing the game. The inclusion of unlockable content like items or characters can greatly enhance the overall gaming experience and keep players engaged for hours on end.
Internet connection required
For gamers who prefer online multiplayer functionality or want to access the extra content and features that rely on an Internet connection, opting for games that offer online gameplay can greatly enhance their gaming experience. Some popular Nintendo 3DS games that require an Internet connection include Pokémon X & Y, Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate, and Mario Kart 7. These games allow players to battle and trade with other players worldwide, participate in online tournaments, and download extra content like new characters or levels. By ensuring that the selected game requires an Internet connection, gamers can dive into the online community and seek new challenges and interactions.
Premium edition options
These editions often come with additional bonuses such as exclusive content, special packaging, or even limited-edition consoles. For example, the Animal Crossing: New Leaf - Welcome amiibo premium edition not only includes the popular game that allows players to become the mayor of their own town, but also a bonus amiibo card and a uniquely designed 3DS XL console. Another enticing option is the Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon Fan Edition which includes both games along with a SteelBook case to store them in. These premium editions provide added value and are ideal for collectors or those looking for something extra special.
Expansion pack availability
The expansion packs allow gamers to enhance their gameplay experience by adding new levels, characters, and features to the game. Some notable games that offer expansion packs include Animal Crossing: New Leaf - Welcome amiibo Edition and Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon.
Animal Crossing: New Leaf - Welcome amiibo Edition offers the ability to use amiibo cards and figures to invite villagers to your town, unlock special in-game items, and even visit other players' towns. This expansion pack adds a whole new level of customization and interaction to the game.
Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon takes the popular Pokémon franchise to the next level with its expansion pack called the Ultra Beasts. This pack introduces new powerful Pokémon, a new storyline, and explores an alternate dimension called Ultra Space. Players can take their Pokémon battles and exploration to new heights with this expansion.
It is worth noting that not all games have expansion packs available. However, for those who enjoy expanding their gaming experience, these options mentioned above offer exciting features that can enhance gameplay and keep players entertained for hours on end.
Game updates and bug fixes
Game updates are patches or improvements released by the developers to fix bugs and enhance gameplay. These updates can greatly improve the overall gaming experience and ensure smooth and glitch-free gameplay.
One example of a Nintendo 3DS game that regularly receives game updates and bug fixes is Animal Crossing: New Leaf. Nintendo releases frequent updates that introduce new features, events, and bug fixes to the game. These updates enhance and expand the gameplay, keeping it fresh and engaging for players.
Another example is Pokémon Sun and Moon. Game Freak, the developer of the Pokémon series, often releases updates that address gameplay issues, balance changes, and bug fixes. These updates ensure a smoother gaming experience and maintain the competitive integrity of the game.
When considering Nintendo 3DS games, it is important to check if the developers provide regular updates and bug fixes to keep the game of choice up-to-date and enjoyable.
Local multiplayer features
When considering which Nintendo 3DS games to purchase, it is essential to take into account the local multiplayer features. This aspect allows you to play with your friends or family in the same physical location, which can provide hours of fun and interactive gaming experiences. Some games offer cooperative gameplay where players work together towards a common goal, while others focus on competitive gameplay, pitting players against each other for victory.
One excellent example of a game with fantastic local multiplayer features is 'Mario Kart 7'. This racing game allows up to eight players to compete against each other wirelessly, either locally or online. Players can use the 3DS gyro sensor to control their kart's steering by physically moving the system. Alternatively, the highly acclaimed 'Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS' enables up to four players to battle it out in fast-paced, action-packed matches. Each character possesses unique abilities and moves, offering endless variety and excitement in multiplayer sessions.
Online leaderboard
Online leaderboards allow players to compare their scores and progress with others around the world, adding a competitive aspect to the gaming experience. One example of a game that offers online leaderboards is Mario Kart 7. This popular racing game not only allows you to compete against friends locally, but also offers the ability to race against players from all over the world. By striving for the top spot on the worldwide leaderboard, you can challenge yourself to improve your racing skills and gain recognition among the global Mario Kart community. Other games that include online leaderboards are Super Smash Bros. 3DS and Pokémon X & Y which also offer online multiplayer capabilities to enhance the competition.
In-game achievements
In-game achievements add an element of challenge and reward, keeping players engaged and motivated to push their gaming skills to the limit. Some games, like The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D, offer a robust achievement system where players can unlock special items or exclusive content upon completing specific tasks or reaching certain milestones. Other games, such as Fire Emblem: Awakening, feature in-game achievements that unlock additional character classes or abilities, adding depth and replay value to the gameplay experience. With the wide selection of games available for the Nintendo 3DS, make sure to check if your chosen game includes the desired in-game achievements to enhance your gaming adventure.
3D effects
The Nintendo 3DS console offers stunning autostereoscopic 3D graphics, providing a more immersive gaming experience. One game that showcases the 3D effects of the console is 'Super Mario 3D Land'. With its vibrant visuals and clever use of depth perception, players can fully enjoy the 3D capabilities of the console. Another game to consider is 'The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds', which allows players to explore the Hyrule and Lorule kingdoms in mesmerizing 3D environments. Both of these games demonstrate the impressive 3D capabilities of the Nintendo 3DS console, making them excellent choices for those seeking visually immersive gameplay.
Cross-platform compatibility
Ensure that the games you select are compatible with both the Nintendo 3DS and its successor, the Nintendo Switch, if you plan to upgrade your console in the future. One great example of a game with cross-platform compatibility is Minecraft. This popular sandbox game allows players on the Nintendo 3DS to play with those on the Nintendo Switch, as well as other platforms like Xbox One and PC. In addition, Splatoon 2 is another excellent choice as it seamlessly allows cross-platform play between the Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo Switch, allowing you to join online battles and team up with players on both consoles.
Price
The cost of a game can vary, and it’s essential to find a balance between your budget and the quality of the game. Some affordable options include 'Animal Crossing: New Leaf', a popular life-simulation game where players can become the mayor of their own virtual town, and 'Pokemon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon', which offers an immersive Pokémon adventure. On the higher end of the price range, 'Fire Emblem: Awakening' is an excellent choice for fans of strategy RPGs, with its deep tactical gameplay and an engaging storyline. Remember to compare prices and read reviews to ensure you're getting the most value for your money.
Variety of brands
The advantage of having a wide range of brands is that it gives users the option to choose games that align with their preferences and interests. For instance, Nintendo offers popular titles such as The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D and Animal Crossing: New Leaf, which are known for their immersive gameplay and captivating storylines. Furthermore, Square Enix brings its remarkable RPG expertise to the table with renowned titles like Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King, while Capcom offers thrilling action and adventure with a series like Resident Evil: Revelations. Each brand has its own unique style, allowing players to have a diverse range of gaming experiences. However, the downside of having numerous brands is that it can make the decision-making process more challenging, as players need to thoroughly research each brand's history, reputation, and quality of games before making a purchase.
Different brands cater to specific genres or focus on different styles of gameplay. In the role-playing game (RPG) genre, for example, Level-5 excels with titles like Yo-Kai Watch and Fantasy Life, offering innovative mechanics such as befriending and battling various creatures. Sega specializes in arcade-style games with their popular Sonic the Hedgehog franchise, known for its fast-paced platforming action. Other brands like Atlus and Square Enix focus on creating deep and immersive story-driven experiences. Thus, when considering the variety of brands, it is crucial to understand the types of games each brand tends to produce and make a decision based on personal preferences and gaming style.
