With a possible handheld/home console hybrid being released by Nintendo next year, now is the time to examine some of the best the 3DS has to offer, before it is overshadowed by its successor.
THE LEGEND OF ZELDA: A LINK BETWEEN WORLDS
One of the best Zelda games to date, brimming with style and features that make the gameplay feel fresh. The dungeons, distribution of items are all re-worked for this modern Zelda experience which makes it a must-play for 3DS owners that love a good 20+ hour adventure on the go. If a more classic Zelda game is what you’re looking for, Ocarina of Time or Majora’s Mask are equally amazing experiences to own on the system.
RESIDENT EVIL REVELATIONS
A technical marvel and a return to the franchise’s roots. Despite a slightly confusing storyline this game is perfect for fans that want to immerse themselves in a chilling survival horror game and enjoy a simple but fun multiplayer component. Play with headphones!
ANY OF THE 3DS POKEMON GAMES
I was personally re-introduced back to the Pokemon franchise with Pokemon Y, re-igniting my love for the series and what if has to offer. But I cannot deny that Omega Ruby/Alpha Sapphire are also magnificent choices to add to your 3DS library. There’s nothing to say here really. They’re great games to play on the go, you get your money’s worth with 80+ hours of gameplay and a well-made battling/trading system. Go get it now, I’ll wait.
FINAL FANTASY EXPLORERS or MONSTER HUNTER SERIES
The most controversial entry on this list. Most people would argue that Monster Hunter should take this spot. Both are essentially beast-killing games with RPG elements and solo/online play. The thing is, I downloaded the demo for every MH game and found myself lost in its learning curve. If you are ready to invest a lot of time into learning Monster Hunter’s mechanics and want to play a fun, visually striking game, then that’s your game. But if you’re a fan of Final Fantasy and want a game that’s easy to get into and play with your friends without them giving up in the first hour, then FF Explorers is what you need.
SUPER SMASH BROS FOR 3DS
Packed with features, extras, levels and characters. This game will keep you busy for years with its fun gameplay both solo and online. The ultimate 3DS fighting game, easy to jump in, hard to master. I still get my ass kicked online and feel bad after, but I love it nonetheless.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
These are games I couldn’t add to this list because of my limitation of 5 games or simply because I do not own them.
Mario Kart 7
Fire Emblem Awakening
Bravely Default & Bravely Second
Metal Gear Solid 3D: Snake Eater
Star Fox 64 3D
Shovel Knight
Super Mario 3D Land
Luigi’s Mansion 2
Castlevania: Lords of Shadow – Mirror of Fate
What do you believe is the ultimate 3DS game collection in order to get the most out of the system?