The Nintendo 3DS era brought us many memorable titles. Many players often find their beloved 3DS console collecting dust. This happens especially when newer hardware like the Nintendo Switch arrives. Yet, the 3DS remains a fantastic portable system. It offers a library of incredibly unique and engaging Nintendo 3DS games. Our video above highlights some fantastic options. These are titles you might have missed or forgotten. This post dives deeper into these handheld console gems. We will explore why these particular Nintendo 3DS games deserve your attention. Get ready to rediscover your favorite portable gaming device.
Reviving Your Handheld: Underrated Nintendo 3DS Games
Your Nintendo 3DS holds a treasure trove of adventures. It is easy to overlook these games in today’s fast-paced gaming world. However, many titles offer refreshing experiences. They often combine classic gameplay with innovative twists. We’re talking about games that offer hours of fun. Some even provide unique perspectives on beloved franchises. Dust off your console and prepare for some serious nostalgia. These are not just any old games; they are special.
Hey Pikmin: A 2D Twist on a Beloved Series
Hey Pikmin offers a different kind of Pikmin adventure. This title shifts the classic strategy into a 2D platformer. It blends puzzling elements with familiar exploration. Captain Olimar’s commentary adds humor. He often reflects on the “junk” he finds. This creates an engaging narrative experience. The game is available for $40. It holds a Metacritic score of 69. This score shows it is a solid, enjoyable entry. Imagine guiding your Pikmin across intricate levels. Each Pikmin type has unique abilities. This makes every challenge feel fresh and new. This game truly changes the formula enough to hook new players. It is perfect for those who found original Pikmin games less appealing.
Miitopia: Your Friends in a Ridiculous RPG
Miitopia is a delightful and quirky RPG. The team behind Tomodachi Life developed it. This influence is clear in its charming, humorous style. Players cast their Mii characters, and their friends, in starring roles. These characters embark on a grand, silly adventure. The fun comes from the ridiculous scenarios that unfold. Imagine your best friend as an “air-headed flower class” hero. Or perhaps your boss as a villain! Miitopia scored 67 on Metacritic. It typically retails at full price. This might make some pause. But the sheer joy of creating your own cast of characters makes it worthwhile. It offers light RPG mechanics. These include a mild class system. This ensures accessibility for all players. It is an experience brimming with personality and laughs.
Kirby’s Blowout Blast: Action-Packed Puzzling
Kirby’s Blowout Blast provides pure, unadulterated Kirby fun. This action puzzler takes a classic franchise in a new direction. The levels are designed for quick, satisfying bursts of play. Kirby’s signature inhaling ability is central to gameplay. Players suck up enemies and obstacles. This power creates massive attacks. It also solves environmental puzzles. The game’s vibrant visuals pop on the 3DS screen. At just $6.99, it is an incredible value. Its Metacritic score of 69 is very appropriate. This game is ideal for short gaming sessions. It offers immediate gratification and classic Kirby charm. Imagine clearing entire screens of enemies. One big inhale leads to a powerful “blowout.”
Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia: A Remake for Newcomers
Fire Emblem Echoes revitalizes a classic entry. This game remakes Fire Emblem Gaiden for a modern audience. Many players, especially newer fans, likely never experienced the original. This strategy RPG offers a compelling narrative. It features tactical turn-based combat. New additions include dungeon exploration. Players also gain learnable skills for weapons. The game boasts an impressive 81% on Metacritic. It is available for $39.99. Imagine carefully positioning your units on a battlefield. Every decision holds significant weight. Newcomers can enjoy this game. Veterans will appreciate the fresh take. Be sure to avoid casual mode for maximum stakes. Putting your favorite characters on the line elevates the experience significantly.
Mighty Gunvolt Burst: A Spiritual Successor to Classic Action
Mighty Gunvolt Burst scratches that classic Mega Man itch. It continues the spirit of 2D action platformers. The game allows for deep customization of abilities. Players can fine-tune their weapons. This leads to truly personalized gameplay. It is available for just $10. The Switch version scored 75 on Metacritic. The 3DS experience is visually similar. It offers the same high-quality gameplay. Imagine crafting the perfect weapon. Each modification changes how you tackle stages. This game is a love letter to a bygone era of gaming. It delivers crisp controls and challenging levels. It is a true hidden gem for action fans.
Runbow Pocket: Colorful Chaos on the Go
Runbow Pocket brings vibrant party platforming to the 3DS. This game’s core mechanic is ingenious. Level elements disappear based on background colors. Players must react quickly to these shifts. It creates a constantly changing environment. This game originated on the Wii U, a console often overlooked. Runbow Pocket adapts this experience perfectly. It includes StreetPass functionality. Ad-hoc multiplayer is also available. Shantae even joins the roster as a new playable character. The game carries a Metacritic score of 66. It sells for $29.99. Imagine leaping across platforms. The ground beneath you vanishes. This demands split-second decisions and quick reflexes. It offers chaotic, fast-paced fun for groups or solo players.
Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS: Create and Play On the Go
Super Mario Maker delivers endless 2D Mario fun. This game empowers players to design their own levels. It also allows them to play others’ creations. The Wii U version was critically acclaimed. The 3DS version brings this creative freedom to a portable screen. While some online features were cut, local play shines. The game still provides a vast array of engaging levels. It scored 73 on Metacritic. The price is $40. Imagine designing intricate platforming challenges. Or just enjoying the incredibly creative levels already available. This game is a must-have for Mario enthusiasts. It caters to both creators and players alike. It ensures endless replayability for years to come.
Kirby Planet Robobot: Kirby in a Mech Suit
Kirby Planet Robobot is a standout Kirby title. It offers classic side-scrolling action. New abilities keep the gameplay fresh and exciting. The major twist is Kirby’s Robobot Armor. This mech suit fundamentally changes gameplay. Kirby can scan enemies. He then gains powerful new forms. This enhances puzzle-solving and combat. It is still available for $40. This game achieved an impressive 81 on Metacritic. Imagine Kirby transforming into a giant robot. He stomps through levels. Each mech ability offers new ways to interact with the environment. This game is a delightful blend of tradition and innovation. It makes it a must-play for any 3DS owner. It is truly one of the best Nintendo 3DS games in the series.
Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon: Expanded Alolan Adventures
Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon offer expanded adventures. These titles revisit the Alola region. They introduce an all-new story and new Pokémon. This builds upon the original Sun and Moon games. Fans of Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 will appreciate this approach. It suggests a passing of time. Players could see new gyms and a Battle Frontier. More Alolan Pokémon might also appear. The sky’s the limit for new content. These games launched on November 17th. They were priced at $39.99. Imagine catching all-new Pokémon. You might discover new challenges. This offers a refreshed journey through a beloved region. It is a fantastic entry for any Pokémon trainer.
Monster Hunter Stories: A Turn-Based Take on the Hunt
Monster Hunter Stories provides a fresh perspective. This RPG brings turn-based combat to the Monster Hunter universe. It also incorporates strong Pokémon-like influences. Players hatch and train “Monsties.” These creatures then fight alongside them. The game looks incredibly fun and accessible. It diverges from the traditional action-RPG format. A free demo was available on August 10th. The full game released on September 8th. It costs $40. Imagine forging bonds with unique monsters. You then use their powers in strategic battles. This game is perfect for those who enjoy RPGs. It offers a captivating story and charming monster designs. It is a truly different experience from other Nintendo 3DS games in the series.
Metroid Samus Returns: A Modern 2D Classic
Metroid Samus Returns is a masterful remake. This game reimagines Metroid 2: Return of Samus. It delivers an all-new 2D Metroid experience. It combines modern graphics with classic exploration. The gameplay feels tight and responsive. Samus gains new abilities. These enhance combat and traversal. The game launched on September 15th for $40. Imagine exploring a vast, interconnected alien world. Every new ability unlocks new pathways. This game delivers the 2D Metroid fans craved. It is a beautiful and challenging adventure. This is a must-have for any action-adventure fan. It stands as a testament to the power of the Nintendo 3DS games library.

