3DS Top 20 Games

Widely considered "one of the very best games ever made," this 3DS remake of the N64 classic features updated visuals, a sleeker interface, and subtle mechanical improvements while maintaining everything that made the original a masterpiece. With a Metacritic score of 94 (the highest on the platform), it showcases perfect remake quality with modern polish and is frequently cited as "arguably the definitive version" of this landmark title.

This sequel to A Link to the Past proved to be a spectacular achievement that "captures the essence of top-down Zelda gameplay" while introducing innovative wall-painting mechanics that fundamentally change exploration and puzzle-solving. The game offers snappy action, flexible non-linear progression where players can choose their own path through dungeons, and represents "the perfect mix of old and new, blending traditional themes and fresh mechanics." It earned a 91 on Metacritic and is consistently ranked among the top 3DS titles.

Described as "the game that saved Fire Emblem from extinction," Awakening revitalized the entire franchise with memorable characters, emotional storytelling, and accessible mechanics including multiple difficulty modes and optional permadeath. The game delivered both critical acclaim (92 Metacritic) and commercial success, transforming Fire Emblem from a niche series into a mainstream phenomenon. Its blend of deep tactical gameplay with relationship-building mechanics set a new standard for the series.

Acclaimed as "one of the best remasters to ever grace a console," this 3DS version of the N64's darkest Zelda title features unique gameplay ideas centered around a three-day time loop and a haunting, apocalyptic theme. The remake preserves the original's experimental design while adding quality-of-life improvements and enhanced visuals. Its bold departure from traditional Zelda formulas and emotionally complex narrative make it a standout even among other Zelda titles.

This entry is celebrated as "a joyous pastime that enters your life and becomes part of your routine," featuring upgraded multiplayer that made it "a 3DS essential." As the mayor of your own town, players experience deceptively addictive gameplay focused on community building, customization, and zen-like discovery that can be shared with friends. Its relaxing yet engaging loop and social features made it one of the most beloved 3DS titles with an 88 Metacritic score.

This game strikes "a terrific balance" between content and challenge while remixing traditional Mario gameplay pillars specifically for handheld play. Praised for addictive gameplay, fantastic use of the 3DS's stereoscopic 3D capabilities, and impressive level design, it demonstrates how 3D Mario could work on a portable system. With a 90 Metacritic score, it's considered the definitive Mario platforming experience on the 3DS.

Recognized as "the finest outing" for Kirby on the 3DS, this game features the innovative central mecha-transformation mechanic that adds a fresh twist to the classic Kirby formula. The ability to pilot a giant robot suit that can scan and copy enemy abilities provides creative gameplay variety while maintaining the series' charm and accessibility. Its polished design and inventive mechanics make it stand out in the excellent Kirby library.

This indie masterpiece is a "celebration of classic gaming" with excellent responsive controls, gorgeous pixel art graphics, and level design featuring an instantly iconic protagonist. Despite being designed to resemble NES platformers, its captivating gameplay makes it hard to put down with modern refinements that elevate it beyond simple nostalgia. Its 90 Metacritic score and universal acclaim across platforms cement its status as one of the generation's best platformers.

These games marked Pokemon's leap into full 3D graphics on a handheld system, introducing the new Fairy-type Pokemon and Mega Evolutions that "could turn the tide of battle." As the first 3DS mainline Pokemon entries, they successfully modernized the formula while maintaining the series' core appeal. Their combination of nostalgia and innovation, along with strong Metacritic scores (87-88), made them essential titles for both longtime fans and newcomers.

Developed by Super Smash Bros. creator Masahiro Sakurai, this revival is "exhilarating" and "outrageously fun" with adrenaline-pumping set pieces. Described as "one of the best-looking games on the 3DS," it features compelling flight sequences, engaging multiplayer, and creative use of the system's unique features. Its ambitious scope and unique control scheme make it a distinctive and memorable 3DS exclusive.

This 3DS port of the PS2 classic "showcases its trademark style with great music" and "a memorable roster of characters." The portable version includes all the charm of the original massive adventure with added content and quality-of-life improvements. As one of the most accessible and beloved entries in the Dragon Quest series, it demonstrates that epic JRPGs can work beautifully on handheld systems.

This modern remake of Metroid II balances "nostalgia and well-oiled modern platformer" design with polished gameplay mechanics that capture "the spirit of what makes the franchise special." Featuring smart puzzles and excellent use of the system's particular features including melee counters and 360-degree aiming, it revitalized 2D Metroid before Dread continued the legacy. Its refined gameplay earned it strong critical acclaim (86 Metacritic).

This entry offers "an exciting story with multiple paths and memorable characters, a captivating cast of monsters, fun engaging combat, and a whole heap of style." Praised for incredible combat combining demonic fusions with fast-paced elemental strikes, it represents the dark, mature counterpart to Pokemon's monster-collecting formula. Its branching narrative, challenging gameplay, and distinctive post-apocalyptic Tokyo setting make it essential for JRPG fans.

Earning a reputation as "the best RPG on the 3DS," this Square Enix title features a deep job system and innovative battle mechanics mixing risk and reward through its unique Brave/Default system. Players can choose to defend and store turns or spend future turns for devastating combo attacks, adding strategic depth to turn-based combat. Its fine pedigree, classic JRPG feel with modern conveniences like auto-battle and combo meters, make it a standout in the genre.

These remakes deliver "a wonderful blend of excitement and nostalgia" by reimagining the beloved GBA titles with full 3D environments and modern Pokemon mechanics. They successfully balance faithful recreation of the Hoenn region with contemporary features like Mega Evolution and updated online functionality. For many players, these represent the definitive way to experience the third generation of Pokemon.

Following Awakening's success, Fates delivered a lengthy campaign with polished and fun strategic mechanics across three distinct story paths. Each version offers different gameplay challenges and narrative perspectives, with Conquest providing hardcore tactical battles and Birthright offering a more accessible experience. The combined package (88 Metacritic for Special Edition) demonstrates the series' continued excellence and ambition.

This remake "stepped back from triple-route complexities" to deliver a more focused experience featuring dungeon exploration alongside traditional tactical battles. By reimagining one of the series' most unique entries (originally Fire Emblem Gaiden), it offers a different flavor of Fire Emblem with full voice acting, beautiful presentation, and mechanics that set it apart from Awakening and Fates.

Praised for deep combat systems and a massive checklist of activities ensuring players remain engaged for hundreds of hours, this entry perfected the Monster Hunter formula on 3DS. The addition of mounting mechanics and more dynamic environments elevated the hunting experience, while improved online functionality made cooperative play more accessible. It represents the pinnacle of the series on Nintendo handhelds.

This inventive adventure title is packed with amusing and entertaining ghost-hunting gameplay where "the 3D feature brought to fantastic effect." Dividing the adventure into mission-based structure made it perfect for portable play while maintaining the charm and puzzle-solving of the GameCube original. Its creative use of the 3DS's capabilities and Luigi's quirky charm make it a standout exclusive.

This remake demonstrates "how well the original game's formula had aged" while delivering "funny, smartly designed" gameplay with "pure unpretentious joy." The addition of the Bowser's Minions side story provides extra content, while the core adventure maintains the series' signature timing-based combat and witty writing. Its blend of accessibility and depth makes it an excellent entry point to the Mario & Luigi series.