Ally
Mar 17, 2023
With Nintendo announcing a portable only Nintendo Switch that is now commonly seen as the successor to the much beloved but aged 3DS, we thought it would be a great idea to take a look at the Nintendo 3DS. This handheld console was first released in February of 2011. The console has since sold nearly 75 million units and features a library of more than 1297 games. We took 15 of the most popular and overall best received games and listed them right here for you! Join us on a journey through The 15 Best 3DS Games.
Nintendo recently announced that you will no longer be able to to purchase games from the Nintendo 3DS eShop beginning end of March, 2023.
As a tribute, I have collaborated a list of what I think were some of the 15 best games for Nintendo 3DS.
If you love your Nintendo Switch, or planning on getting one check out our Top 5 Game Ports and Wii U ports we would love to see on Nintendo Switch.
Animal Crossing: New Leaf
Of course this game was going to make the list. Animal Crossing: New Leaf is by far one of the most entertaining, family friendly, pick-up-able games of all time. Rated 88/100 by Metacritic, the game is even better than previous entries due to it’s improved characters, dialogue and game features. Oh, and also due to the fact that you can fire Resetti. That too.
Ever Oasis
As you attempt to discover what happened to your missing brother, you venture into the desert, make allies, and work together to create a perfect oasis. Rated 8.9/10 by IGN and described by them as “fun instead of tedious”, this action-adventure RPG was well-received despite it’s tardiness in joining the 3DS in 2017.
Fire Emblem Awakening
Fire Emblem awakening received widespread critical acclaim, and still holds a score of 92/100 on Metacritic. Shortly after it’s release, this tactical RPG earned a place on both GameSpot and IGN’s list of best 3DS games.
Kid Icarus: Uprising
The English localisation of Kid Icarus: Uprising was highly anticipated after it’s announcement. Scoring 83/100 on Metacritic, Nintendo Power described the mythology themed third-person shooter game as “well worth the wait.”
Shovel Knight
Released in June 2014, Shovel Knight is an 8-bit 2D side-scrolling platform game. Winning numerous awards, the game is held in very high regard and is described as “a brilliant homage to a bygone era.” The game currently holds a rating of 90/100 on Metacritic and 9/10 on IGN.
Mario Kart 7
Released in December 2011, Mario Kart 7 holds a rating of 85/100 and 9/10 by Metacritic and IGN respectively. The game honours traditional Mario Kart games, whilst also introducing new features such as characters, tracks and power-ups. I’m sorry to say that Rainbow Road is unfortunately still a thing. D̶i̶e̶ ̶a̶l̶r̶e̶a̶d̶y̶.
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The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D
Being the remake of a highly regarded game, upon its release in 2011 the game unsurprisingly received critical acclaim. The game was given a score of 94/100 on Metacritic, a 10/10 by Eurogamer and 98% by the Official Nintendo Magazine, who called it “a life-changing game”.
The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask 3D
Majora’s Mask was also a remake of an original Zelda game. Like Ocarina of time 3D, the game features graphical improvements and new features to make gameplay smoother and richer. Released in 2015, the game was rated 89/100 by Metacritic and 9/10 by GameSpot. Not too shabby.
The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds
Released in 2013, A Link Between Worlds is in some people’s opinion, the best Zelda game for 3DS. Scoring 91/100 on Metacritic and a 10/10 by Nintendo Life, a Polygon reviewer went as far as claiming it to be the “best Zelda game in past twenty years”.
Monser Hunter Generations
Monster Hunter Generations is an action RPG released worldwide in 2016. Receiving a rating of 85/100 by Metacritic and 8/10 by IGN, many liked the continuity from previous entries, as well as new features, such as the ability to play as a felyne. A rise in the purchase of 3DS consoles occurred as a result.
Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy
This puzzle game is the last game in the Professor Layton prequel trilogy. It is also the last to feature Professor Layton as the Protagonist (sad reactz only). With over 500 new puzzles and a variety of environments to explore, the game was well received. It is currently rated 81/100 by Metacritic and 9/10 by Eurogamer.
Super Mario 3D Land
Super Mario 3D Land is a Mario platform game released in 2011. The game was well received, with gaming critics praising the game’s creativity and technical design. Game Informer liked the game so much they cited it as “easily the best reason to own a 3DS.” The game is currently rated 90/100 on Metacritic and 9.5/10 by IGN.
Bravely Default
Bravely Default is an RPG published in 2012. Set in the fantasy world of Luxendarc, the game utilises a turn-based battle system and job system. Rated 85/100 by Metacritic and 8.5/10 by Gamespot, the game often features on lists of top 3DS games.
Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS
Super Smash Bros. 3DS is the latest entry to the popular crossover fighting series. Released in 2014, the game received critical praise and holds ratings of 85/100 on Metacritic and 8.8/10 by IGN. With Nintendo characters such as Kirby, Link and Mario, and new third party characters such as Pac-man and Bayonetta, the game caters for a wide audience.
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Pokémon Sun/Moon
Released in 2016, many strongly believe Pokémon Sun and Moon are the best 3DS Pokémon games. Rated 87/100 by Metacritic and 9/10 by IGN, critics praised the change from the formula used by previous Pokémon games. IGN praised the game for creating “an engaging adventure that improves on its predecessors.”
If you love your Nintendo Switch, or planning on getting one check out our Top 5 Game Ports and Wii U ports we would love to see on Nintendo Switch. As well as Hokko Life a game truly worth comparing to Animal Crossing.
- Oct 27, 2022
Unsure as to whether we’d be getting new Halloween-themed in-game items, players decided to bring spooky season to the game prematurely with these inspiring island ideas and professional-looking pumpkin patches. Even if Nintendo doesn’t share many new items, the community always keeps it fresh!
I was so excited to finally know for sure that Jack was back when Nintendo announced it during the games first year, that
I didn’t even mind the return of that god-forsaken Halloween music (‘witch’ in New Horizons, sounds rather like it could’ve been played by Miles Davis himself…)*Hisses in Animalese!*But whilst I was busy clapping at the pumpkin seeds on sale in Nook’s Cranny, creative players were busy doing what they do best! Namely, creating creations such as these:
But Wait; There’s More!
For more spook-tacular creations from fans following on from the Animal Crossing: New Horizons fall update, be sure to check out these cool costume ideas here. And whilst you’re in the mood, you seriously need to take a look at these perfect little pumpkin patches (which now contain actual pumpkins!).
Adorable Spooky Game Obakeidoro! Free this weekend
take a look at this adorable lantern haunting game you can play with your friends on Switch for free this weekend only!
- Mar 27, 2021
Here are 15 super cute games for the 3DS to celebrate the consoles 10th anniversary.
It has been exactly 10 years since Nintendo launched the 3DS in North America. The handheld console may have had a rough start with a price tag a little too high but once Nintendo listened to its fanbase the handheld quickly become a fans favorite gaming machine and has sold more than 75 million units since its original launch back in February 2011.
With the Nintendo Switch just recently celebrating its third birthday, I thought it would be a great idea to take a look at the Nintendo 3DS. This handheld console was first released in February of 2011. The 3DS features a library of more than 1297 games – I took 15 of the cutest ones and listed them right here for you! Join me on a journey through The 15 Best Cute 3DS Games.
I also compiled a list of my 15 favorite Nintendo 3DS games, so if case you missed that list, check it out! This time I am being a little more specific. Kawaii lovers rejoice! Here are some of the 15 cutest 3DS games.
- Disney – Magical World: Released in 2013, Disney Magical World was highly anticipated by Disney fans and kawaii lovers alike. Being cute, wholesome and not requiring commitment, the game is perfect for children, and casual gamers with busy lives. ( get it here )
Disney Magical World 2 - Disney – Magical World 2: With all the same perks as the game’s predecessor, as well as new characters, outfits, items, minigames, and worlds to explore, this game was also very well received. ( get it here )
Detective Pikachu - Detective Pikachu: Detective Pikachu is a recently released game for the 3DS. Considering the main character of the game (who has a cult following due to his cuteness) is a lil detective (●´ω｀●), it’s safe to say this game is cute. ( get it here )
- Pokémon Rumble World: Cuddly toy Pokémon. Those three words scream cuteness (although as Pocket Camp would say, not literally, as that would be terrifying). With the ability to play as a Mii character in a kingdom of toys, the retail version of this adorable game was released worldwide in 2016. ( get it here )
Animal Crossing: New Leaf - Animal Crossing: New Leaf: OBVS. With a cute alpaca couple, three hedgehog sisters, a pigeon barista, and a town full of anthropomorphic animals, there’s nothing about this game that isn’t cute! This classic installment in the series is still popular today for its adorable aesthetic alone. ( get it here )
Tomodachi Life - Tomodachi Life: Released worldwide in 2014, Tomodachi life is a surprisingly entertaining game. Using mii characters, players can populate the island, unlock new shops and items, form relationships, and even have a baby. ( get it here )
- Fantasy Life: Aesthetic AND cute. Released worldwide by Level 5 in 2014, it comes as no surprise that the game is endearing. If slaying dragons isn’t your cup of tea, you can instead enjoy the entertaining storyline and numerous cute features (such as plushlings and pets) that the game has to offer. ( get it here )
Moco Moco Friends - Moco Moco Friends: I hadn’t heard of this one until recently. At first I thought “Oh, like Pokémon Rumble?” due to the game’s cuddly toy theme. Apparently, it’s possible to get even cuter than Pokémon rumble, as Moco Moco Friends combines a magic school and cuddly toy monsters whilst also evoking a ghibli-esque theme. ( get it here )
Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask - Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask: It’s no secret that the Professor Layton series consists of games with stunning stories, mesmerizing music, and amazing artwork. Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask doesn’t disappoint with it’s colorful carnival-esque theme and unusual plot. ( get it here )
Professon Layton and the Azran Legacy - Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy: Admittedly, this game was kind of bittersweet due to being the last main series game to be made. However, with it’s multitude of worlds to explore, treachery, and plot twists, in combination with the usual incredible artwork and music, this game is also a must-play for 3DS owners and Layton fans. ( get it here )
- Theatrhythm Final Fantasy: Released in 2012, Theatrhythm Final Fantasy is a rhythm video game made by Square Enix with Final Fantasy characters. Rated 8.5/10 by IGN, the chibi game was popular enough to warrant an iOS sequel in 2014. ( get it here )
- Kirby: Triple Deluxe: Kirby himself is a little cutie pie (the words of my brother), so naturally the 2014 game Kirby: Triple Deluxe was going to make this list. After Kirby’s friend Dedede is kidnapped by Taranza (who has created a giant ‘dreamstalk’), Kirby sets off to bravely rescue him! Is it just me who finds it hard to take such a cute little hero seriously? Tee hee. ( get it here )
- Yo-Kai Watch: Jibanyaaaaaan! Also a product of Level 5, the colourful game Yo-Kai watch is definitely cute with cat yo-kai such as Jibanyan, a scatterbrained butler named Whisper, and it’s anime like features. ( get it here )
Yo-Kai Watch 2 - Yo-Kai Watch 2 (Bony Spirits, Fleshy Souls & Psychic Specters): Oh mah swirls! Like it’s predecessor, Yo-Kai Watch 2 (which has 3 variations) is also a cute must-play 3DS game. ( get it here )
- Return to PoPoLoCrois: A Story of Seasons Fairytale: Described by Hardcore Gamer as “thoroughly charming from the very start”, this 2016 rarely talked about game is definitely cute enough to warrant a play-through. ( get it here )
- Dec 13, 2020
Having a campsite in Animal Crossing: New Horizons can be a super aesthetic little addition to your island. As well as the aesthetic value of making a campsite, the process is also fun and therapeutic. With many of us having missed out on our usual summer holidays, having a cozy virtual campsite can somewhat make up for this.
However, you might be needing some inspiration. The many items and customization options available can often be a little overwhelming. Are you looking to change your island up? Maybe after months of gameplay, you don’t have a lot of space and need some smaller campsite ideas?
Wherever you fall, we’ve got you covered with these super cool Animal Crossing: New Horizons campsite ideas. If you’ve not yet built the campsite, the below steps explain how.
How To Unlock The Campsite?
To unlock the campsite, you will first need to:
- Pay off your getaway package debt and upgrade your tent to a house.
- Provide the materials required by the Nooklings to build Nook’s Cranny.
- Build a bridge.
- Craft the required items for three homes and have three new villagers move in.
- After completing these steps, the Residents Services building will be built.
How To Build The Campsite?
After you have upgraded the Residents Services building from a tent to a building, you must do the following:
- Talk to Tom Nook and select the ‘What should I do?’ option twice. This will prompt the tanuki to share his desire for K.K. Slider to visit the island and put on a show. Tom Nook wishes to invite K.K. Slider, however, he wants to build a campsite first.
- Tom Nook will ask for your help in building the campsite and therefore will give you the campsite construction kit recipe .
- Next you must craft the kit at a workbench using 15x iron nuggets, 15x wood, 15x softwood and 15x hardwood.
- After crafting the kit, you need to find a spot to place it. The location you choose will mark where the campsite will be built.
After choosing a spot for the campsite, return to the Residents Services building. Talk with Tom Nook and the building of the campsite will begin. After building the campsiste and unlocking the game’s amiibo feature, you will be able to add and remove residents to your island.
Campsite Design Ideas
- Nov 5, 2020
As Pocket Camp has a ferris wheel item, a carousel, a bouncy castle, plus circus-themed items, I had hoped players would get at least some of these items in Animal Crossing: New Horizons too. Without more rides and attractions, I felt that any type of amusement park I attempted would feel too plain. Out of curiosity, I decided to see if other players had created any cool Animal Crossing: New Horizons amusement parks with the in-game items available.
Not only had players created awesome theme/amusement parks, but cute carnivals, Jurassic Park-inspired attractions, and zoos (to name just a few) also! With the customization options available, an abundance of design ID codes for paths and panels, and trading sites like Nookazon to get different variations of items, making an awesome amusement park isn’t as daunting or difficult as you may think.
So if you’re looking for inspiration and ideas, get inspired with these Animal Crossing: New Horizons amusement parks.
For more amusement park ideas, be sure to check out the videos below:
For more fun and cute design ideas for your island, why not check out these little pieces?
- Oct 29, 2020
Adding a little garden to your island is a great way to help fill those pesky empty spaces.
Not sure where to start or what sort of look to go for? No worries! Here are some amazing Animal Crossing: New Horizons garden and outdoor area ideas to use as inspiration.
Fans from all around the world have created beautiful designs. If you want to see some more eye candy or maybe you would even like to draw some inspiration from your own island, I recommend taking a peak at these absolutely stunning able sister decoration ideas to make your shop stand out even more!
In addition – having a campsite in Animal Crossing: New Horizons can be a super cute little addition to your island. As well as the aesthetic value of making a campsite, the process is also fun and therapeutic. With many of us having missed out on our usual summer holidays, having a cozy virtual campsite can somewhat make up for this.
So you may like to take a peak at these beyond adorable campsite designs, I for sure wouldn’t mind camping here for a while!
Flower Gardens
Zen Gardens
Picnic Areas
Vegetable Gardens
Butterfly Gardens
Other Ideas
More Animal Crossing New Horizons Designs!
If you liked these great garden ideas, why not check out some wonderful waterfall designs and extraordinary island entrance ideas.
- Oct 21, 2020
In previous games, players were limited when decorating their Able Sisters and Nook’s Cranny exteriors. Pixelated paths were basically the only way of landscaping in Animal Crossing: Wild World. I remember trying to spruce up my Animal Crossing: Wild World shops by using mismatched flowers from Tom Nook (when I wasn’t putting them around my house).
I also remember crudely insulting the tanuki tycoon on the bulletin board, but that’s for another time (and probably another place). But even using flowers to decorate was difficult due to the darn pavement beneath the shops.
Even in Animal Crossing: New Leaf, the shopping area was unchangeable. Additionally, players couldn’t curve paths, terraform, or place furniture outside. Therefore the addition of these features to Animal Crossing: New Horizons is what makes the game so attractive.
Make your buildings stand out
Players just have so much more freedom and ways to be creative when it comes to exterior design. However, the sudden abundance of tools given to us can be a little daunting. Somehow staring at plain grass doesn’t seem to help inspiration to hit any faster.
Not used to decorating the exteriors of shops in the games, I had no clue where to start. The outside areas of Able Sisters and Nook’s Cranny on my island remained pitifully drab until REALLY recently. Are you in the same boat? Get inspired by these Nook’s Cranny exteriors from Animal Crossing: New Horizons.
- Oct 19, 2020
Having had so much time pass since the release of Animal Crossing: New Horizons, it’s no secret or surprise that inspiring island design ideas are everywhere. We’ve seen (and shown) examples of gorgeous gardens, wonderful waterfalls, cool campsites (to name just a few areas!) from the game. As inspiration is everywhere, you may feel you have finished decorating your island.
I thought I had, until I realised there were a few areas that looked a bit bare. Two examples of areas that I didn’t know what to do with were my island’s peninsula and its rocky areas. The pier in Animal Crossing: New Horizons (known as the dock in previous games), has also proven pesky to decorate due to being too narrow and small.
As a result, I haven’t yet decorated my pier, despite owning the game for well over six months. Wanting to rectify this, I decided to scour the web for some ideas. I wasn’t disappointed. My search yielded piers transformed into wonderful wharves, relaxing reading spots and peaceful picnic areas.
I made the assumption that some players were ‘in the same boat’. And so, I compiled a few of my favourite piers, to share with you in this article right here(s).
For some quick and easy pier ideas, be sure to check out the video below!
