Nintendo 3DS

Title

Genre

Description

Ace Combat: Assault Horizon Legacy+

Flight / Combat

Not related to the console game Ace Combat: Assault Horizon, this is actually a port of Ace Combat 2, and an excellent title. In fact, if you hated Assault Horizon and wanted a return to Strangereal, then this is right up your alley. The “+” re-release adds some new features, including support for the new buttons, facial camera tracking for the new 3DS, as well as some Nintendo themed aircraft and amiibo support.

Animal Crossing: New Leaf

Life Simulator / Comfy

Pretty good improvement from the older games in which you are the mayor of your town and can develop and help out your community. Next to your new banana-dog assistant, Isabelle. New shops exist such as Re-Tail, where you can buy and sell items at a kind-of flea market. Make sure you pay off your house bill and get all your permits in line in the first day, because it’s basically essential for stuff such as Streetpass. You can also take in-game screenshots by holding L+R in game so you can show everyone on Twitter how you caught a fucking fish. If you like Animal Crossing, get this shit.

Bravely Default

RPG

Remember Final Fantasy: The 4 Heroes of Light on the DS? This is a spiritual successor to it that basically fixes a lot its issues, and instead of being based off FF3, it’s based off of FF5 and FFT, taking the best parts of both and mashing them together for a kickass job system. Combat uses a “Brave Point” stocking system. “Defaulting” gives you a BP, which enables you to defend for that turn, while “Bravely” uses up a BP, which lets you use an extra ability that turn for each BP you spent. This system adds some strategy to battles and makes fights more interesting, especially Bosses. One of the best RPGs on the system and worth checking out for sure. The method to unlocking the “true ending” is absolute bullshit though. Don’t look up Spoilers!

Bravely Second: End Layer

RPG

If you liked Bravely Default and want more without wanting anything new, then you’ll like this. Its a direct sequel the picks up two years after the events of the first game and the story is pretty good for what it is. It doesn’t do anything new though so if you wanted it to build off of the first game then you should pass. It’s more like a goodexpansion instead of a sequel.

Cave Story 3D

Platformer

The popular PC game Cave Story now upgraded with 3D graphics. Extras include a Prinny hat that’s just for show, rearranged music, and three new areas about a minute long each. A tad easier than the original version since you can get double the amount of health, though the original version is also available here too.

Recommended for those who prefer physical media, as this is the only physical version of the game, and is quite difficult to come by.

Not to be confused with the vanilla 3DS port available on the eShop, or the (separate) DSi port.

Code of Princess

Beat ’em up

2.5D beat em up with sticky combo-based combat and ridiculous character designs. Designed by the same guy(s) who created Guardian Heroes. Play through the story to unlock over 50 characters (including grunts and monsters) to play as outside of story mode. Co-op and versus modes included. Frame-rate slows the game down a bit in combat and even more so with the 3D slider on. Still with the game you get an Art-book and an OST.

CRUSH3D

Puzzle / Platformer

Cute-sified remix of the twisted and sinister PSP original. A puzzler that blends platforming 2D and 3D nigh-seemlessly. Each stage lets you “crush” and “uncrush” the world at 4 90-degree x-axis parts to it and 2 90-degree y-axis parts to it, allowing for birds-eye overhead, 2d sidescrolling, and 3D freeroam sections. Stages have you collect mental-marbles and reach a goal, but there’s also enemies to dispose of and obstacles to utilize and avoid. Everything crushes simultaneously, so always think a step ahead to avoid screwing yourself over. GameStop-exclusive in US, but goes for a spectacularly cheap $20.

Dead or Alive: Dimensions

3D Fighter

An excellent entry into the Dead or Alive series. Includes a “chronicle mode” that essentially summarizes the giant cluster fuck that is the DOA saga. Gameplay is based on DOA4 with some elements from DOA3 (like the simplified ‘3-point-hold’ system). Features a great roster of 26 playable characters. It’s a surprisingly fun and balanced entry in this fighter series, which may also prove “titillating” for newcomers as well. Online can be fun too, as long as you avoid Japan or you WILL get your ass kicked provided that you can find someone online. Frame rate slows down with 3DS slider on. Had some free DLC, but TK decided to stop hosting it anywhere but Japan.

Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D

2D Platformer

The sequel that lived up to the original now gets a handheld 3D port. Graphically inferior to the Wii version, and runs at 30fps instead of the Wii version’s 60fps. Recommended only if you haven’t already gotten the Wii version. (unless the portability and 8 new levels are a selling point to you) (or if you suck at waggle-rolling) Recommended anyway because this game is amazing!

Dragon Ball Fusions

RPG

A neat little action-RPG based on the anime with a huge roster spanning every iteration of Dragon Ball that allows you to build a team and fuse them together to make new fighters. Not a whole lot of substance outside the customization options but it’s worth a go if you’re a fan of the series.

Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past

RPG

It took 3 fucking years, but we FINALLY got the 3DS remake of Dragon Quest VII. And it was fucking worth it. Classic RPG combat, multiple costumes to wear, and hours worth of content, if you’re a fan of JRPGs, get it without a doubt.

Etrian Mystery Dungeon

RPG / Roguelike

A crossover game between Atlus’ Etrian Odyssey series and Spike Chunsoft’s Mystery Dungeon series. Uses the same class system from Etrian Odyssey with the all the dungeon crawling goodness taken from the Mystery Dungeon games.

Etrian Odyssey IV: Legends of the Titan

RPG / Dungeon Crawler

First entry in the dungeon-crawling series to feature fully-3D graphics and a symphonic soundtrack. Also features selectable difficulty modes (including Easy) and an overworld that can be explored via air balloon. Arguably the most accessible EO. Characters can eventually acquire a subclass and the corresponding skills, which makes the game relatively easy to break.

Etrian Odyssey V: Beyond the Myth

RPG / Dungeon Crawler

Final numbered entry in the series (so far), with the same production values as IV. Features all-new classes (and races) which, instead of subclassing, can further specialize into certain skill sets later on. Requires more micro-management than IV, and has no overworld to explore, so it’ll be less accessible to newcomers. It still has an Easy (Basic) mode, though.

Etrian Odyssey Untold: The Millenium Girl

RPG / Dungeon Crawler

Remake of the original Etrian Odyssey for DS, with the production values of IV and V. Features an all-new story mode with pre-made characters and actual JRPG-style narrative, which is a first for the series, but classic mode (where you make your own party and explore the dungeon with minimal narrative) is also there. Easy (Picnic) difficulty makes this game extremely accessible to newcomers.

Etrian Odyssey 2 Untold: The Fafnir Knight

RPG / Dungeon Crawler

Remake of Etrian Odyssey 2. Like the first remake, it comes with a story mode with pre-made characters as well as a classic mode reminiscent of the original.

Ever Oasis

RPG / Farming/ Town Building

Equal parts Animal Crossing and Zelda, Ever Oasis is a new IP prodiced by Grezzo, the creators of the Mana series and the studio behind all those must-have 3D Zelda remakes on the 3DS.

Explore a desert, fight monsters, build a town, fight more monsters, solve puzzles, help your sweet aqua-waifu expand your oasis for more residents and shops.
Really fits the New 3DS XL nub-stick for camera movement.
Chibi art style is awesome, great jmusic, deceptively cute, this game is a lot of fun and should be a must-have for any 3DS owner.

Fantasy Life

RPG

An RPG in which you can choose one of twelve “Life Classes”, various jobs such as Alchemist, Cook, Carpenter, Hunter, Woodcutter, etc. The main story involves investigating mysterious meteorites that spread dark energy to creatures throughout the land, and fighting those monsters. Very simple and cute art style, as expected from Level 5. Sadly, the gameplay is pretty shallow.

Final Fantasy Explorers

RPG / Action-RPG

An attempt at a Monster Hunter-style game with Final Fantasy jobs, skills, and monsters. While the idea is solid, and the game has lots of content for series fans, new jobs are unlocked too slowly, and bosses/stages are incredibly repetitive. You can play with others locally/online, and/or recruit monsters as teammates, the latter making the game incredibly easy.

Fire Emblem Awakening

SRPG

The first 3DS Fire Emblem title borrows elements from modern JRPGs to create a more expansive world with more to explore, but the option to grind in between missions gels awkwardly with the gameplay and makes the story either too easy or populated with abrupt difficulty spikes. Character and script work have gotten a big boost with the return of detailed Support conversations and an emphasis on coupling and relationships as part of the story, and localization is great. Character and stage design are also wonderful and most everyone in the cast grows on the player. On the gameplay side you can expect the usual, but there’s too much dependence on the Pair-up System and missions lack variety. There’s tons of side content and DLC, including recruitable characters from all past games, and the game is in general a treat to series fans. If you’re looking for a deep and challenging strategy experience this may leave you wanting, but it’s full of fun and polish.

Fire Emblem Fates

SRPG

You take control of a hero who was abducted from their family as a child and raised by your kidnappers, you can choose which side to fight on; your original family or your family that abducted you, with many twists and turns along the way. The gameplay remains the same classic SRPG strategy Fire Emblem has already had, so you can already guess it’s pretty good. More characters that develop and raise, more romancing, pretty much more everything.

NOA’s localization has become rather notorious for changing a lot of things about the game. They removed the option to pet your units in a minigame similar to Pokemon-Amie and butchered a few lines of the dialog with stupid jokes. If this is too much, there exists a ongoing Content Restoration patch to fix all the damage done, so go check that out if you’re interested.

Harvest Moon 3D: A New Beginning

Simulation

The first original Harvest Moon title on the 3DS. For those not familiar with the series, it’s basically a farming/life sim where you raise crops, take care of livestock, interact with the townsfolk, and get married. It’s a lot more fun and addicting than it sounds. The big “gimmick” with this one is the customization aspect, which is actually fucking awesome because you can essentially make the town and your farm look however you want. However, since the game starts you out with practically nothing, it takes a long time for it to get fun. The hoarding plays a bigger role here than in previous titles so get a guide if you’re going to play this one, you will need it.

Those looking for a more classic HM experience should take a look at Story of Seasons instead.

Hyrule Warriors Legends

Hack N’ Slash

A sort-of upgraded port of the Wii U version. Hack and Slash your way through thousands of enemies in Dynasty Warrior style, just like the Wii U version. While it doesn’t run anywhere CLOSE to the Wii U’s performance, it has plenty of new exclusive content not found in the Wii U version. It runs like ass on the original 3DS, so it’s recommended you get it on the New 3DS.

All the characters in this game can be gotten on the Wii U version as DLC, however, only the characters, all the other exclusive content stays here.

Kid Icarus: Uprising

Rail Shooter / Action-Adventure

Easily one of the best 3DS games. Loads of amounts and types of weapons, powers, and items AND online and local multiplayer (on-foot). The solo-play story mode has on-rail shmup action stages and exploratory on-foot stages to find new stuff. It also destroys the 4th wall. Difficulty is player-adjusted from laughably easy to brick-shittingly hard. If you’re a Smash Bros. fan, you’ll find hints of it in gameplay and music (thank Masahiro Sakurai for that). Playing its predecessors isn’t necessary to enjoy this. The controls DO take getting used to, but can be adjusted in button-action setups and stylus sensitivity. Also, Circle Pad Pro is a must for lefties. One “major” weakness is that some of the challenges can be bullshit to pull off.
Controls are a make or break issue. If you don’t like the controls you will not enjoy the rest of the game.

Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance

Action RPG

Happens after KH2, leads into 3. Play as both Sora and Riku, each now with unique skills, and both are in a dream world, so no Goofy and Donald. Instead you tame dream world enemies, each giving a variety of abilities, but features a pseudo Pokemon petting system to take full advantage of them. Gameplay is similar to Birth by Sleep (minus command fusion), but now with the lovechild of all the Drive form abilities in KH2 being at immediate disposal. Several new Disney worlds and characters. Also, If you care about the story, don’t miss this, or KH3 won’t make any sense. But, if you’re new to KH, an HD collection of the originals is available on PS3. Sadly, the TWEWY stuff isn’t as important as you may have hoped.
Also Baloonga.

There’s an HD port for the PS4. If you want to play most of the games in the series, you’re better off getting the PS4 HD collections.

Kirby: Triple Deluxe

Platformer

Handheld Kirby done in 2.5D perspective. Simple platforming fun with unique and colorful characters. One of the newest copy abilities is that of a rhinoceros beetle that allows Kirby to impale his enemies which is incredibly satisfying. Also features some bonus games, one similar to Super Smash Bros. in which you can battle with your own customizable Kirby, and the other being a King Dedede rhythm game.

Kirby: Planet Robobot

Platformer

The next 3DS Kirby game, it plays yet again similar to Return to Dreamland and Triple Deluxe. This time you can grab a hold of robots which also have copy abilities to defeat your foes. Simple platforming fun just like the last ones. This one also has a sort of RPG battle mode as one of the sub-games, and for the first time ever; a sub-game where Kirby can move in 3D.

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D

Action-Adventure

One of the most beloved games of all time, with THREE DEE and some other cool features like updated textures, a touchscreen inventory, some pretty awesome gyroscope aiming, and a boss rush mode. Master Quest is also included, though you have to unlock that by beating the game first, which kind of sucks. There’s also a new video-hint system for casuals, but really, who doesn’t know their way in this game? Even if it’s just a slight remaster of a game we’ve played countless times before, this is honestly the best version of the game released yet.

The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask 3D

Action-Adventure

A remake of Majora’s Mask, and probably the strangest and darkest title in the series. Months after Ocarina of Time, the hero Link finds himself in the strange parallel world of Termina, with only three days to save it from its impending doom. Boss battles have been altered. Now includes fishing!

Note: Some people have complained about the changes made for this game. If you just so happen to prefer the original N64 title over this one and have a hacked 3DS, take a look at this restoration mod.

The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds

Action-Adventure

A 2D style Zelda in THREE DEE. Serves as a more direct sequel to A Link to the Past, using largely the same overworld. Introduces new items, system mechanics, and ways to solves puzzles, which includes turning Link into a 2D painting and sidling along flat surfaces (way cooler than it sounds). Travel between Hyrule and ‘Lorule’ (yeah, I know, it’s retarded) which serves as the game’s version of the dark world. The most ‘old school’ style Zelda game in at least a decade, and a real treat to long time fans, also has the most freedom since the original (you can complete the dungeons in almost any damn order you please). The game took a page from the Tingle RPG’s book and heavily revolves around rupees, which actually ends up working in it’s favor since any features relying on them were well implemented (no more bag sizes, you can carry 9,999 from the start). Honestly, this might be the best Zelda game since… whatever your last favorite was, let’s not argue.

The Legend of Zelda: Tri Force Heroes

Action-Adventure

A spiritual successor to Four Swords and based off of A Link Between Worlds. You can play with friends or online (even though it’s kinda dead). You can wear different costumes to give you different abilities to solve puzzles. Not as good as A Link Between Worlds, but it’s decent on its own right.

Be warned though, Nintendo of America has infected it with their memes.

LBX: Little Battlers Experience

Mecha/Action-RPG

The first Danbouru Senki title to be released outside of Japan, LBX is essentially the spiritual successor to Custom Robo. Customize your little robots to battle other customized little robots in order to save the world or something. The story is a little predictable, but the visuals and gameplay buy it back.

Luigi’s Mansion

Adventure / Puzzle

Port of the original GCN launch game that features slightly updated graphics, gyro, Circle Pad Pro and New 3DS c-stick peripheral control support, as well as some amiibo interactions. Use Luigi to navigate the ghost-infested abode while, scared out of his mind, he has to collect the various themed ghosts with a vacuum.

Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon

Ghostbusting

After 12 years Luigi’s Mansion gets a sequel, and a great one at that. Instead of one mansion, you explore five mansions sucking up all of the ghosts and eventually the boss of each mansion. Game has a mission based system this time instead of a free roaming aspect, but it works great. Game has multiplayer as well, but expect this each time you play with others.

Mario & Luigi: Dream Team

RPG / Platformer

Arguably the best in the series, Dream Team has the brothers harness the power Luigi’s dreams to save the day. Similar to M&L BIS, you interact with Weeg while he naps and stuff happens mid-dream (ex: grab his mustache, then snap it to give Mario a quick ride thru the air). Enemies are pretty trippy, as expected from the M&L series, and are a joy to fight. In the awake world, both bros laying the smack down, mostly with standard controls. In dream world, Mario summons his stand Luigi and his clones to fuse into a giant hammer, bowling ball, etc. and the skills lean more towards screen-tilting, touch, etc. Arguably, a must have for the 3DS.

Mario & Luigi: Paper Jam

RPG / Platformer

Mario and Luigi X Paper Mario. While some complain this was wasted potential (Although they were coming up with the most batshit insane stories possible with fanservice out the ass) it is still a pretty good game. Tutorials are now skippable, and you can use Paper Mario as a third party member to fight enemies, while using cards to help you out as well. Pretty decent follow up to Dream Team.

Mario Golf: World Tour

Sports

More Golfing with Mario and pals! Arguably some of the best 3D models for Mario & Co. to come out of Camelot. The game bolsters the most holes in the series, but you have to earn most of them first by gettin’ gud! The RPG elements from past portable Golf titles was replaced with stat-changing clothes and costumes for your Mii. There’s a stream of official tourneys and challenges plus lots of potential online communities to battle on the green, as well. One of the more chill games to unwind with, though your golfer repeats lines very quickly. This is one of the first Nintendo games to offer a “Season Pass”, though it’s really a DLC bundle that gives you all of the courses from the N64 Mario Golf (minus the putt-putt, those bastards!) along with 4 more characters. Double your hole content for half the asking price (which kinda sucks in EU & AUS…).

Mario Kart 7

Racing

Mario Kart is back and in 60 FPS! New to MK are hang-gliders during big air and you can also drive underwater with little sub-propellers (which kind of suck because it slows the pace of the game down). Courses and characters new and old are featured (along with your Mii). Vehicle Customization lets you change body, tires, and accessory, each affecting your kart. Multiplayer can be local (with download play!) or wi-fi. Along with ghost races, you can also use your spot/street pass modes to register other people and build a “community” of them along with any registered friends who have it. Easily worth getting; the most solid outing of the series. (Comes pre-installed on a special White 3DS bundle in EU, also in a Blue 3DS bundle in NA).

Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater 3D

Stealth / Action-Adventure

This version of the MGS classic is a little hit and miss. As the game is available for the same price in HD bundled with 2 other MGS games it’s up to the player which version to get. This version offers a few gameplay tweaks but is notably scaled down to work on the portable. It adds a few new features like the EXTREMELY helpful crouch walking and photo camo. The 3D is great and adds very useful depth to the jungle environment. That being said the game suffers from harsh framerate drops in cutscenes and the controls are pretty bad compared to every other version of MGS3, so you may want to play it elsewhere.

Also Available on PS Vita, as part of Metal Gear Solid HD Collection

Metroid: Samus Returns

Metroidvania

A 2.5D remake of Metroid 2 on the original Game Boy. Has good old-school platforming exploration and introduces a really well done countering system that adds some complexity to combat. Otherwise, its an old Metroid game. You play as Samus, kill metroids, kill a big ass metroid, kill Ridley, go home. It’s good fun. Another option for playing an updated Metroid 2 is AM2R, a fan-made remake that got C&D’d by Nintendo when they decided to make this official remake.

Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate

Monster Hunting

Addictive Action game. A combination of and update to the content of Tri and Portable 3rd. Fairly difficult for the uninitiated, more of the same for the familiar; will suck hours away in both cases. Multiplayer is local only unless you have a Wii U, in which case you’d probably be playing the Wii U version. Still a great single player experience and better off for the fact that it’s portable. Plays better with a CPP.
The game isn’t for everyone, as the game’s style of gameplay and pacing are hard to get into at first. The demo on eShop is also a poor representation of the final product.

Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate

Monster Hunting

This is the best game in the series to date. It does the best job the series has so far to explain the mechanics to newcomers, although it’s still better to learn things from an experienced friend or from a guide. Many improvements have been made since the previous installment. More platforming, larger areas, and new mechanics. Now features a fully integrated online multiplayer and a “Guild Quest” system, so you can hunt with your friends to your heart’s content. The difficulty is ramped up this time around, which is a welcome change from the ease of Tri. As with any Monster Hunter, you can easily dump hundreds of hours into this game. And you’ll enjoy every second of it.

New Super Mario Bros. 2

Platformer

More from the New Super Mario Bros. series. Pretty much what you’d expect, though this time it places a lot of emphasis on coin-collecting, and features new items that provide more coins, such as Gold Flowers, rings, and a block mask that produces coins as Mario runs.

Persona Q: Shadow of the Labyrinth

RPG

A crossover RPG featuring the protagonists of Persona 3 and 4, along with a couple new faces. Gameplay is similar to that of the Etrian Odyssey series, with some added Persona elements. The chibi arstyle may be off-putting for some, but don’t worry, the game is NOT CANON to the series.

Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire

RPG / Monster Sim

The remakes Hoennfags had been screaming about for ages, now upgraded with 3D graphics and all sorts of new features. New Mega Evolutions, fairy type, mini games, etc. Lots and lots of obtainable legendaries. Aside from the Hoenn starters, you can also grab a Johto, Unova, and Sinnoh starter as well. Beware though, the game is extremely easy compared to the originals. Did I mention it was easy?

Pokémon Sun and Moon

RPG / Monster Sim

The seventh generation of Pokémon, set in the Hawaii inspired region of Alola. Has a larger focus on story (similar to Black & White), new Pokémon to catch and better graphics. Compared to X/Y, the game world feels more open, and the difficulty has been ramped up. Gyms have been replaced by challenges, mini events that play better than they sound. For example, one has you hunting Ghosts with a camera and another has you answering trivia questions in a pitch black room. There are still boss battles around though if you miss fighting Gym Leaders. Also HMs have been removed (no more HM slaves!) and replaced by summonable Pokémon that fulfil the same purpose. Two Words: SHARPEDO JETSKI

Pokémon Ultra Sun & Ultra Moon are also available, acting as the “special editions” of Gen VII with more features. If you’re going to play Sun & Moon, these are the versions to play.

Pokemon Super Mystery Dungeon

RPG / Roguelike

The largest PMD game yet, with 720 recruitable Pokemon and emphasis on item usage over standard combat as you’ll face much stronger Pokemon than yourself throughout the game. Play a human who has awoken with amnesia in the Pokemon world finding his way back while exploring randomly generated dungeons and figuring what’s afflicting the Pokemon world.

Recruiting to your party is no longer random, instead you recruit whatever Pokemon asked you to take on a mission, eventually running out of new missions to take on unlike previous games with the mail boards. Also the pacing is really slow for the first few hours of the game. Still, these are minor flaws and the game is a fantastic tearjerker with strong, challenging gameplay.
And have fun with Salamence!

Pokémon X and Y

RPG / Monster Sim

The sixth generation of Pokémon. Set in the French inspired region of Kalos, X/Y are the first main series games to have 3D graphics. The Pokémon themselves look impressive, using detailed models with some smooth animations, however everything else look only slightly better than a DS game. There’s a low amount of new Pokémon to catch (only 68), so you’ll mostly be seeing familiar faces on your journey. Still, it’s one worth taking. Now with FAIRIES! No Pokémon Z sadly.

Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy

Puzzle

Follows the conclusion of Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask. Story revolves around the Azran Legacies, an ancient relic and an organization called Targent trying to use its power for their own purposes. Similar gameplay to Miracle Mask, and includes over 500 new puzzles.

Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask

Puzzle

Professor Layton, except that the 2D sprites are replaced with 3D models and the puzzles utilize the 3D effects. Story wise, it’s the second prequel game in the Professor Layton series. Features a strange villain who dons a mask that does all sorts of twisted shit, like petrifying people and levitating things, among other actions. Guess who has to put him down and save the day? This also explores the backstory of the lovable prof, Hershel Layton, back when he was a younger badass with an untamed mane.

Professor Layton VS Phoenix Wright Ace Attorney

Puzzle / Adventure

A crossover game featuring Professor Layton and Phoenix Wright. Borrows elements from both series, the investigation portions are similar to Layton gameplay, and the trials themselves are similar to the Ace Attorney series. Features animated cutscenes and full voice acting.

Project X Zone

Tactics / Fighting

Fan service at its finest. Not only a crossover of Capcom, Namco Bandai, and Sega; but a crossover of genres too. Combines tactics gameplay with a “Cross active battle system” combo system for the battle scenes. Does get repetitive towards the end but the production values and the ability to use Ulala from Space Channel 5 makes it all worth it. Caution is advised however, as the game has been known to induce migraines in those sensitive to flashing lights and patterns (read: me).

Project X Zone 2

Tactics / Fighting

A pretty direct sequel that features much of the same gameplay as the first with an even more insane cast, including characters from Yakuza, Shenmue, and even Fire Emblem. Both games were removed from the e-shop so it can only be gotten physically now.

‘Radiant Historia: Perfect Chronology

RPG

A remake of the DS classic. New art that is hit and miss and some new mechanics including a follow-up mechanic similar to Tokyo Mirage Sessions, which the devs also made. Still a great game.

Resident Evil: Revelations

Survival Horror

Revelations blends the new over the shoulder more action orientated RE with the classic corridor wandering atmospheric titles. And it blends pretty well too. Hands down the best looking game on the system and a great use of 3D. The main story will last around 9–10 hours and you will unlock Hell mode after which will have different enemy placement, tougher enemies and fewer ammo, so lots of replay-ability. There’s also an offline & online co-op “Raid” mode which has you take out every enemy in the level and get to the goal as efficiently as possible. You unlock and collect weapons in this mode and it has plenty of variety. Game has been ported to the PS3, 360, Wii U, and PC with a couple new features (Raid Mode outfits and DLC), but critics say the 3DS is the best (and cheapest) version. Also DAT JILL ASS!

Rhythm Heaven Megamix

Rhythm

Basically a bunch of quirky, rhythm based minigames. Still good even though it’s the weakest game in an excellent series. Sadly a lot of the games are straight ports from older titles in the series, the story mode and level unlock system get in the way, and the difficulty has been toned WAY down. That said it has a lot of content to unlock.

Rhythm Thief & the Emperor’s Treasure

Rhythm / Puzzle

Nifty little rhythm game for the 3DS. Use the buttons, stylus, dpad and gyro sensors to play through a wide variety of rhythm games on your journey through Paris. There are a few short puzzles here and there, but they are mostly straightforward and don’t take much time to complete. The smooth animation and music give this game a nice charm. Supports local multiplayer and streetpass.

Rune Factory 4

Simulation / RPG

It’s more Rune Factory! Explore dungeons, farm, and get married.

Senran Kagura Burst

Beat-em-up

Titty Ninjas on 3DS. For the first in the series, it’s a decent beat em up, with an enjoyable story and actually well written characters. That being said, what holds the game back is the very poor framerate. Worth a look if you’re interested in seeing how the series started, though you may be better off looking at the other games for gameplay.

North America only got digital only release.

A remake was released for the PS4 and PC. The PS4 version has cut content.

Shin Megami Tensei IV

RPG

The long awaited follow-up to 2009’s Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey, and the older SMT3: Nocturne. One of the most solidly crafted RPGs on the 3DS even though the game is only hard for the first 3 hours. From there on it snowballs to the easiest RPG on the 3DS with very straight forward dungeons and demon negotiating the series has always been known for. It’s also the first title in the mainline series not to feature a main cast designed by Kazuma Kaneko, though his classic demons are still here. First run copies include the usual Atlus soundtrack CD as well as a 180 page guidebook covering the first 30-40% of the game. Atlus says it’s an artbook, but don’t believe their lies, that only covers about eight pages of the book.

Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner – Soul Hackers

RPG / Dungeon Crawler

Port of the original JP-only Sega Saturn game. The 3DS version includes fully voiced dialogue, new demons, “Hacks” which allow you to do things like adjust difficulty and a bonus dungeon in which Raidou Kuzunoha from the PS2 Devil Summoner games makes an appearance. Story involves you playing the role of a member of the Hacker group, The Spookies, as they unravel the mystery of the Phantom Society which seeks to steal all the souls of the inhabitants of Amami City via a virtual reality world known as Paradigm X. Since this game is fairly easy it would be a good starting place for individuals interested in getting into the SMT games.

Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor Overclocked

Strategy RPG

A remix port of the original. A solid combo of visual novel and strategy RPG, with the SMT-standard Press Turn battle system. Full voice acting, more skills, more demons to recruit, slightly smoother graphics, a Compendium to register and resummon demons for cash, and an extra 8th day scenario for four key characters, along with a few new game+ bonuses. Not bad if you never played it before and possibly are a Megaten fan. Out in Euroland now, thanks to based Ghostlight.

Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor 2 Record Breaker

SRPG

Just like how they re-released the first Devil Survivor, here’s number 2! New additions include voice acting that isn’t as bad as Overclocked, new story that happens after the events of the original that adds about 30 hours, and new demons and skills yada yada.

Shinobi

Platformer

A difficult side-scrolling Shinobi that stars Jiro, Joe Musashi’s dad, and blends and builds on classic and modern elements, gameplay, and control. Has a more fluid feel to it than Shinobi III. The combat has simple combos and you can parry attacks to build up your multiplier which increases how many points you get and how fast you run.

There’s also Challenge Maps to put your skills to the test (access with either streetpass and/or play coins). You can also unlock Joe and another character. A Retro Mode is also unlockable, where one hit = death, like the arcades. There’s also a mode to save your replays of stages.

Story of Seasons

Farm Simulator / RPG

Harvest Moon by the same developers, but with a new name (published by XSEED, the Harvest Moon property is owned by Natsume in the west). Create and customize your own character before heading into town to build your own farm. Visit your friends homes, exchange items, and grow crops together!

Gives a more classic experience than A New Beginning and fixes a lot of the problems, so you might want to play this one first.

Star Fox 64 3D

Rail Shooter

The graphics look really impressive, everything plays and runs much faster and smoother too. Allows for traditional or 3DS controls that use the Gyro-Sensor. One neat update is the option of score attack to replay individual stages at your leisure, as opposed to straight out story mode. There’s also new multiplayer battle options and modes, even a live feed of players’ faces.

Super Mario 3D Land

Platformer

Essentially Mario 2D and Mario 3D sandwiched to create this game. “The most Mario-like 3D Mario game ever” with flagpoles, airships, music and question blocks, and even Boom-Boom from SMB3 return! The Tanooki suit returns without flight (too easy), but still acts the same as before. The new boomerang suit is like the hammer bros suit, but with ‘rangs. The game auto-angles camera to create depth and emphasize 3D, but also has side-scrolling levels. Some levels are weaker than others, but its the latter half and post-game unlocked levels that make this a keeper. Also, Weegee.

Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS

Fighting

The first in the Super Smash Bros. series you can take on the go. Includes all of the characters that the Wii U version has, though this unfortunately meant the exclusion of Ice Climbers due to hardware limitations (SAKURAIIII!).

Tons of trophies and upgrades to collect, and the game actually runs incredibly smooth on the 3DS. 60 FPS for characters, with assist trophies/Pokémon running in 30. Online matches run pretty well without items on, though you’ll probably lag otherwise.

Features a beautiful Magicant stage from the Mother series, exclusive to the 3DS version, as well as a great throwback stage to F-Zero on the SNES.

Super Street Fighter IV: 3D Edition

2D Fighter

It’s Super Street Fighter IV Y’all, but on the tiny screen and in THREE DEE. It has everyone from the consoles, including the DLC. LOL Arcade Edition. Works really well on the 3DS. The fighters look really good, the backgrounds lack a bit but when the fighters look this good portable, no complaints here. The best 3DS launch game out. (Note: Online is broken as fuck due to a fair amount of Lite-control spammers. You can change the online setting to only engage in Pro battles. Otherwise, prepare to lose to Guile and Ryu every time.) Also, Figurine battles which use StreetPass.

Tales of the Abyss

Action RPG

A port of the classic PS2 game. The original NA extras on the PS2 version are in all 3DS versions. If you already played it before you know what to expect. Only real changes are the massively improved loading times, always a good thing, and the 3D which unfortunately isn’t very good at all. The game will last at least a good 60+ hours and is all in all a very good RPG game. Very limited quantities so the game is quite hard to find in Europe; America seems to be getting lots of printings. The MC is annoying at first, but the other characters are pretty ace.

Tetris Axis
 

Puzzle

Maybe the most jam-packed Tetris. 20+ Tetris game modes, some based on classic Tetris, some based on Bombliss, and some just plain new. There’s also some AR game modes, but those tend to suck without a flat table and good lighting. There’s also some versus and Co-op modes as well. In addition, there’s wi-fi modes, and even some Download Play modes to share with other 3DS owners who lack the Tetris Axis card. SpotPass lets you find new items for Fever modes. In addition to solo play, 2-8 players can multiplayer, depending on the game and method. Some say it’s not as cool as Tetris DS (the one with the Nintendo characters), but this is still fun and damn solid.

Known simply as Tetris in non-NTSC regions.

Theatrhythm Final Fantasy

Rhythm / RPG

It’s sorta like Elite Beat Agents meets Beatmania with Final Fantasy characters (if that makes any sense). There’s 3 main modes: Field, Battle, and Event. Field has characters journey and find loot to a beat, Event has series cutscenes with music instructions, and Battle has you fight iconic monsters and bosses. While it does have some RPG elements to it (Life bar, abilities, etc.) they are pretty much useless and there just to be there. Has Streetpass and DLC. Over 50 songs at first, but you can access more, and use them in the non-Story-Mode Challenge Mode. Extra Characters can also be accessed via DLC and non-DLC means. There’s a lot More Info that would fill this page up, so get reading. If you’re a fan of the franchise and/or its music, this is a must-have game.

Theatrhythm Final Fantasy: Curtain Call

Rhythm / RPG

The sequel to Theatrhythm Final Fantasy. Includes over 200 songs, 60 characters, and a brand new Versus Battle Mode, which involves two players competing for a higher score, with status effects to prevent each other from winning.

It’s basically the old Theatrhythm but with more content, if you get this one don’t bother with the old one.

Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon: Shadow Wars

Strategy

Arguably the sleeper hit of the 3DS launch, produced by the creater of the original X-Com series. Closer to Fire Emblem than anything else. The average playtime is about 40 hours, and that’s only with the main story. There’s also a heapin’ helpin’ of extra missions to play as well.

Tomodachi Life

Simulation

A really weird life simulator featuring your Miis. Recommended for those who might be a little sick of Animal Crossing and want to try something new. All hail the Virtual Boy!

WarioWare Gold

Minigame / Puzzle

WarioWare is back after eight years. Wario couldn’t afford Pizza so he decided to scam all his friends into making games for him to profit off of. It has new games and brings back a lot of classics. If you still have a 3DS lying around give this a shot.

Yo-kai Watch

Pokeymans

An interesting Pokemon clone courtesy of Level 5. Find mons yo-kai using your radar rather than random encounters, and befriend them with food, MegaTen style. The battles are automatic, you play the role of a coach, switching yo-kai out as needed and doing quick minigames for specials. The story is also a lot more involved than in most Pokemon games.

If you are tired of Pokemon or want a different experience, give this a shot.

Zero Escape: Virtue’s Last Reward

Visual Novel/Puzzle

The sequel to the awesomeness that was 999 on the DS. Amazing story and characters wrapped up with plenty of well-designed puzzles that will suck away your time. Obviously contains a lot of reading (it’s a VN) so look up gameplay to make sure it’s for you.
WARNING: This version of the game has a bug where your saves can get corrupted if you save during the puzzle sections in the PEC Room or the Crew Quarters. If you have a Vita, that version is recommended instead.

Zero Escape: Zero Time Dilemma

Visual Novel/Puzzle

The final game in the Zero Escape Trilogy is definitely the weakest in the series, but still pretty good. The puzzles are still strong but the story does not deliver on the promise of the first two games. That being said, it still has its moments. The characters as an ensemble are not as strong overall as the groups from the previous games, but some of them are memorable in a good way. It is worth going through if you’ve gone through the first two games, but temper your expectations.