Best 3DS Games In 2024 (#3 Is Best) | Best Nintendo Games To Right Now

Updated on 29 February, 2024 

Best 3DS games are Shovel knight, Super Mario 3D land, The legend of Zelda, and Pushmo.

Top 10 best 3DS games are mentioned in this blog. Right from The Legend of Zelda to Pokemon Sun and Moon are top-listed and explained.

Are you ready to take your gaming experience to the next level? Think of the best 3DS games.

Alternatively, look no further than the Nintendo 3DS, a handheld console that has revolutionized portable gaming.

With its cutting-edge technology and immersive gameplay, the 3DS has become a favorite among gamers of all ages.

But with so many games to choose from, how do you know which ones are worth your time and money?

Best 3DS Games Nintendo In 2024

From action-packed adventures to mind-bending puzzles, these games have it all. Get ready to explore new worlds, battle fearsome enemies, and embark on epic quests.

So grab your 3DS, settle into your favorite gaming spot, and get ready to level up your gaming experience with the best 3DS games of all time!

1. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D

Developer: Grezzo
Publisher: Nintendo
Release: June 19, 2011
Genre: Action-adventure
Mode: Single-player

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D is an action-adventure game developed by Grezzo and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo 3DS games handheld console.

It is the best 3DS game played by over 31 Million users across the globe.

It is a remake of the classic “The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time,” originally released for the Nintendo 64 in 1998.

The Storyline: In “The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D,” Link (a young hero) travels through time, solving puzzles, exploring dungeons, and playing magical melodies on the Ocarina of Time to alter the past and present. With the help of allies, including Princess Zelda and the wise sage Rauru, Link faces various challenges, battles evil forces, and ultimately confronts Ganondorf in an epic showdown to restore peace to the realm.

2. Fire Emblem: Awakening

Developer: Intelligent Systems
Publisher: Nintendo
Release: Feb 4, 2013
Genre: Tactical role-playing
Mode: Single-player, multiplayer

Fire Emblem: Awakening is a tactical role-playing game developed by Intelligent Systems and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo 3DS.

It is another most played and best 3DS game of the year with an estimated users about 1.9 millions worldwide.

Basically, the game indulges strategic turn-based battles with deep-character relationships along with the happenings of time traveling and other various epic thrills.

The Storyline: The game follows the story of Chrom, the prince of the kingdom of Ylisse, and his companions, including the player’s customizable avatar. They battle against the malevolent forces of the Fell Dragon, Grima, and a dark cult known as the Grimleal.

3. Shovel Knight

Developer: Yacht Club Games
Publisher: Yacht Club Games
Release: Jun 26, 2014
Genre: Action
Mode: Single-player, multiplayer

Shovel Knight is a 2D side-scrolling platformer developed and published by Yacht Club Games for various platforms including Nintendo 3DS, regarded as the 3ds games of all time.

Since it was released, it has gained widespread popularity. Within five years, the company sold over 2.5 million copies worldwide, which was a great achievement!

As you know, the game received critical acclaim, with critics considering it the best 3ds game ever developed.

The Storyline: The game pays homage to classic retro games and features a brave knight named Shovel Knight on a quest to rescue his beloved Shield Knight and defeat the wicked Enchantress and her Order of No Quarter.

4. Super Mario 3D Land

Developer: Nintendo EAD Tokyo
Publisher: Nintendo
Release: Nov 13, 2011
Genre: Action
Mode: Single-player

Old-revived entertainment and best of both worlds 2D and 3D, it’s fun playing Super Mario 3D Land with improved graphics, animation, and thrill.

The game utilizes the 3D capabilities of the Nintendo 3DS to provide depth and perspective, enhancing gameplay.

It received critical acclaim for its creative level design, smooth controls, and nostalgic references to past Mario games. It is the best 3ds game to try at a young age.

The Storyline: The game follows Mario’s quest to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser, who has kidnapped her and taken her to his castle.

5. Pushmo

Developer: Intelligent Systems
Publisher: Nintendo
Release: Dec 8, 2011
Genre: Puzzle
Mode: Single-player

Another from the Intelligent System community, Pushmo is an average-rated puzzle game published by Nintendo for its Nintendo 3DS handheld system.

The game functions ordinary like any other puzzle-based game but in classic 3D graphics including intuitive animation and sound effects.

The Storyline: Pushmo does not have a traditional storyline with characters and a narrative. Instead, it focuses solely on puzzle-solving gameplay.

6. 3D Gunstar Heroes

Developer: Treasure
Publisher: Sega
Release: Aug 20, 2015
Genre: Run and gun
Mode: Single-player, cooperative

3D Gunstar Heroes is a video game developed by M2 and published by SEGA for the best 3ds games for Nintendo. It is a 3D remake of the classic run-and-gun action game “Gunstar Heroes,” originally released for the SEGA Genesis (Mega Drive) in 1993.

About the game, players battle their way through hordes of enemies and challenging boss fights across various action-packed levels.

The Storyline: The game’s storyline revolves around the evil dictator, Colonel Red, who seeks to use four powerful gems known as the “Mystical Gems” to conquer the world.

7. Pokemon Y

Developer: Game Freak
Publisher: Nintendo (and others)
Release: Oct 12, 2013
Genre: Role-playing
Mode: Single-player, multiplayer

Being the most-loved 3ds Nintendo games, Pokémon Y is a role-playing video game developed by Game Freak and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo 3DS handheld console.

It is part of the sixth-generation of Pokémon games, alongside Pokémon X.

Ironically, the main goal is to collect Gym Badges by defeating powerful Gym Leaders in different cities, culminating in the challenge of the Pokémon League.

The Storyline: The game is set in the Kalos region, a beautiful and diverse land inspired by France. Players take on the role of a young Pokémon Trainer who embarks on a journey to become the Pokémon Champion.

8. Fire Emblem Fates: Revelation

Developer: Intelligent Systems
Publisher: Nintendo
Release: Mar 10, 2016
Genre: Tactical role-playing
Mode: Single-player, multiplayer

Fire Emblem Fates: Revelation is a tactical role-playing game developed by Intelligent Systems and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo 3DS. It is one of three versions in the “Fire Emblem Fates” series, alongside “Birthright” and “Conquest.”

Initially, released in June 2015 in Japan with 500,000 copies sold and 1.1 million copies overseas. Today, the game is very popular and resides in the list of the best 3DS games for Nintendo.

The Storyline: The story follows Corrin’s quest to uncover the truth behind the conflict, as they traverse between Hoshido and Nohr, seeking alliances and confronting powerful enemies.

9. Pokemon X

Developer: Game Freak
Publisher: Nintendo (and others)
Release: Oct 12, 2013
Genre: Role-playing
Mode: Single-player, multiplayer

Pokémon X is a role-playing video game developed by Game Freak and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo 3DS handheld console.

It is part of the sixth-generation of Pokémon games, alongside Pokémon Y.

The graphics and animation is exactly similar to Pokemon Y gameplay with little inferiority in story. In “Pokémon X,” players can capture and train various Pokémon, battle other Trainers, and uncover the secrets of the legendary Pokémon Xerneas.

The Storyline: In “Pokémon X,” players embark on a journey as a young Pokémon Trainer in the Kalos region, an enchanting land inspired by France. Their ultimate goal is to become the Pokémon Champion.

10. Pokemon Sun and Moon

Developer: Game Freak
Publisher: Nintendo (and others)
Release: Nov 18, 2016
Genre: Role-playing
Mode: Single-player, multiplayer

Last but not the least, Game Freak‘s developed Pokemon Sun and Pokemon Moon are role-playing video games published by Nintendo for the Nintendo 3DS.

They are part of the seventh-generation of Pokémon games.

The game incorporates intuitive graphics and a breath-taking story. You will be pumped-up with an introduction and deep-relationships with pokemon creatures.

The Storyline: Set in the Alola region, a tropical paradise inspired by Hawaii, players assume the role of a Pokémon Trainer aiming to become the Pokémon Champion.

Why The 3DS Is Still A Popular Gaming Platform

The Nintendo 3DS was first released in 2011, and despite the rise of smartphones and other portable gaming devices, it continues to be a popular choice among gamers.

With the release of frequent 3ds games for Ninento, the user base began to rise rapidly.

Another reason why the 3DS remains popular is its backward compatibility with DS games. This means that players can enjoy their favorite DS titles on the 3DS, expanding their gaming library and providing even more options for entertainment.

Furthermore, the top 3DS games offer online multiplayer functionality, allowing gamers to connect with friends and compete against players from around the world.

Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, the 3DS offers a wide range of experiences and gameplay options that cater to all skill levels and interests.

Also read: DDR4 vs DDR5: Tech Differences, Latency Details, Benefits & More (A Complete Guide)

Top 3DS Games For Different Genres – Action, Adventure, RPG, & Puzzle

The 3DS offers a wide variety of games across different genres, ensuring that there is something for every type of gamer. Whether you’re a fan of action-packed adventures, immersive RPGs, mind-bending puzzles, or captivating story-driven experiences, the 3DS has you covered.

Here are some of the top 3ds games in each genre:

Action: “Kid Icarus: Uprising”

“Kid Icarus: Uprising” is an action-packed game that combines fast-paced combat with a compelling story. As the protagonist, Pit, you’ll embark on a quest to defeat the forces of evil and save the world. The game features stunning visuals, epic boss battles, and a unique control scheme that takes advantage of the 3DS’s touch screen and stylus. With its engaging gameplay and charming characters, “Kid Icarus: Uprising” is a must-play for action game enthusiasts.

Adventure: “The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D”

“The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D” is a remastered version of the critically acclaimed Nintendo 64 game. This classic adventure follows the journey of Link as he travels through time to prevent the evil Ganondorf from obtaining the Triforce and taking over the world. With its immersive world, memorable characters, and challenging puzzles, “Ocarina of Time 3D” is widely regarded as one of the greatest games of all time and a must-play for any fan of the adventure genre.

RPG: “Fire Emblem: Awakening”

“Fire Emblem: Awakening” is a tactical role-playing game that combines strategic battles with deep character development and a captivating storyline. As the player, you’ll lead a group of heroes as they fight to save the kingdom of Ylisse from a mysterious and powerful enemy. With its addictive gameplay, memorable characters, and multiple branching storylines, “Fire Emblem: Awakening” is a must-have for RPG enthusiasts.

Puzzle: “Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask”

“Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask” is a puzzle-solving game that challenges players to unravel a mystery through a series of brain-teasing puzzles. As the renowned detective Professor Layton, you’ll explore the town of Monte d’Or and uncover the secrets behind the mysterious Masked Gentleman. With its charming art style, engaging puzzles, and intriguing storyline, “Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask” is a must-play for puzzle game fans.

Also read: 7 Best Sites Like Artists And Clients To Inspire

That’s all in this blog.

Thanks for reading out the best 3ds games of all time. Tell us which one is your favourite!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are games still made for 3DS?

Yes, games are still made for 3DS. Read this article to know what games you can play on your N3DS.

What 3DS games are worth buying?

Stella Glow (3DS) and Luigi's Mansion are worth buying for your Nintendo emulator.

What are the best 3ds games of all time reddit?

According to the r/3DS reddit community, the best Nintendo 3ds games are Ocarina of Time, Zelda, Super Mario 3d land, and Monster Hunter 4.

Where to download the top 3ds games?

There are various sites available on the internet that support best 3ds games download with 100% working.