Nintendo has been the biggest name in handheld games since they introduced the Gameboy.

Everyone’s talking about their current system, the Nintendo Switch. However, before the Switch, we had the 3DS.

The 3DS had some great games, here’s our list of 27 of our favorites.

The 27 Best 3Ds Games of All Time

Mario And Co.

Mario and his gang of friends have been a mainstay of Nintendo since their first console.

The 3DS featured several Mario and Co. games that delighted fans everywhere.

New Super Mario Bros. 2

Super Mario Bros. got a facelift with this rendition of the popular game series. The rat race is the name of this game. Players are encouraged to rack up their savings in this game.

This game focuses on money so much that the fact that Bowser kidnaps Princess Peach is considered more of a side issue. This side scroller gives players the enjoyable challenge of making it rain money everywhere they go.

Super Smash Bros.

Super Smash Bros. is full of incredible fights combinations. With multiple fighting platforms and multiplayer options, this game will delight players of all ages.

This 3DS version is not as comprehensive as the Wii version, but portability is a definite bonus.

Mario Kart 7

This addition to the Mario Kart series gave fans lots of new vehicle options.

The game also features new tracks and weapons for added mayhem. From gliders to underwater adaptions, Mario Kart 7 takes everything gamers loved about the Mario Kart series.

Super Mario 3D Land

Everyone’s favorite cross between an Italian plumber and a tanuki (Japanese raccoon dog) comes back for a new challenge. Mario cavorts about in his special tanuki suit, which gives him special powers.

The 3D landscape offers players a new challenge without the need for special equipment.

Luigi’s Mansion

“I ain’t afraid of no ghosts, who you gonna call?” Luigi, am I right?

Luigi’s Mansion is a great precursor to the wildly popular Luigi’s Mansion 3, which came out in October 2019. The game really broke Luigi’s character out of his traditional role.

It is refreshing to see a game in the Mario franchise, where Luigi is the main character.

Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon

This game is the follow up to the original Luigi’s Mansion, and it certainly raises what was already a high bar.

Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon allows gamers to explore multiple mansions.

This 3D side scroller is easy as fun as any game in the Luigi’s Mansion franchise.

Mario Party Star Rush

Before Mario Party made a name for itself with Switch interactive play, there was the 3DS version.

This version was the first to move away from turn-based gameplay and allow players to act simultaneously.

Mario Party Top 100

Mario Party gets one-upped in Mario Party Top 100. This version allowed four players to connect and co-op with a single game card, which was revolutionary for its time.

This game is all of the crazy fun of a Mario Party paired with the top 100 mini-games of the Mario Party series.

Zelda And Link

Zelda and Link are an iconic duo. Everyone loves them, and the 3DS gave us some fantastic additions to a ‘timeless’ franchise (yes, that was a shamelessly horrible reference to the Ocarina of Time).

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

This reimagined version of a Nintendo 64 classic is a perfect example of a revamped game exceeding expectations. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time takes the original to a whole new level.

3D graphics, without the use of special equipment, helps elevate this already dynamic action-adventure game.

The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask

The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask is another reimagined fan favorite. Players are told that the world of Termina will fall, and they have three days to stop it.

The really cool thing about The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask is the variety of masks players can use. Each one gives its wearer special powers, making Majora’s Mask one of the most unique Legend of Zelda games ever.

The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds

Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds is a charming show of 3DS graphics. Set in a painted world, this game gives an all-new look at Hyrule. This game is an entirely new look at Zelda’s combat.

The combat is fast-paced and highly adaptive. Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds breaks the mold of previous games from this series.

Legend of Zelda: Tri-Force Heroes

Legends of Zelda: Tri-Force Heroes was wildly popular back in the more innocent time of 2015. The game won several awards and rightly so.

This game is another unique take on traditional Legend of Zelda titles. It encourages players to work together and think outside-the-box to achieve their goals.

Pokémon

Who doesn’t love Pokémon? No one that I want to know.

Pokémon is so cool, and the games are always so much fun. Pika, pika!

Detective Pikachu

Detective Pikachu is a great game. It’s so good that it got its own movie, Detective Pikachu (I know the name of the film surprises you).

The game, like the movie, follows the journey of Tim Goodman, who is searching for his father in Ryme City. While searching for his father, Tim joins forces with “the great detective” Pikachu.

This game is loads of fun and offers over 100 cut scenes of sassy Pikachu (kawaii).

Pokémon X and Y

Continue the journey of becoming a master Pokémon trainer in Pokémon X and Y, as players explore Lumiose City. These two continuations of the main Pokémon story are a great edition of the main storyline.

Pokémon X and Y also allow for Pokémon-Amie, which will enable players to develop a stronger connection with their Pokémon by petting, to feed, and playing with their Pokémon.

Pokémon Alpha Sapphire and Omega Ruby

These remastered updates of previous editions are fantastic. Players get to explore the Hoenn region and meet new legendary Pokémon.

The Hoenn region is gorgeous, and this game provides hours of fun and exploration. Master the Pokémon of the Hoenn region.

Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon

Technically, Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon are the updated versions of two different games. However, the games are mostly sister updates of the main Pokémon series.

One thing is for sure, saving the Alola region has never looked so good. These amped-up updates also feature new content, such as new Pokémon, new quests, and new parts of the Alola region for players to master.

Instant Classics

Some games are instant classics. They capture the hearts of everyone who plays them.

They are the foundations of franchises and the inspiration for movies.

Animal Crossing: New Leaf-Welcome Aiimbos

Fulfill your fantasy of being a humanoid animal and being mayor of a custom town of your own making!

Didn’t know that was a fantasy you had?

Well, Nintendo did! Animal Crossing: New Leaf features the charming mischief that we’ve come to expect from this delightful franchise.

Animal Crossing: New Leaf-Welcome Aiimbos is all of the fun of Animal Crossing, but with, you guessed it, Aiimbos.

Kid Icarus: Uprising

Kid Icarus: Uprising is the perfect example of an instant classic. The game offers AR Card compatibility, allowing gamers to battle once the cards face-off.

With stunning graphics and action-packed combat, Kid Icarus: Uprising captures the hearts of all who play it.

Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy

Cute graphics, an exciting storyline, and intriguing puzzles, Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy, have it all.

Solve the mysteries of the ancient civilization of Azran by working your way through various puzzles.

This game also gives players an additional year’s worth of daily puzzles, just in case you were worried about not having enough.

Professor Layton vs. Pheonix Wright

This game was a top 10 back in 2014, and it is clear why. This game is the best of two beloved series, Professor Layton and Pheonix Wright (shocking, I know).

Players get to solve puzzles and suss out mysteries with Professor Layton and then carry the action over to the courtroom with Pheonix Wright. It is the iconic duo fans didn’t see coming.

Monster Hunter Generations

Monsters here, monster there, monsters everywhere! Defend villages from new colossal Monsters in Monster Hunter Generations.

These massive calamity bringers are called the Fated Four, and they require the full use of the aerial combat that is the hallmark of this game. Master the hunter arts and battle

Monster Hunter Stories

Monster Hunter Stories is a charming action-adventure game.

Players get to ride monsters, collect eggs, and create new monsters to ride into battle. This turn-based battle game breathes new life into the genre and is the first of its kind.

It’s clear to see why fans of all ages love this game.

Fire Emblem Warriors

Fire Emblem Warriors is guaranteed to offer hours of fun. Players get to battle armies with fan-favorite warriors as they work to restore the Shield of Flames and defeat the Chaos Dragon.

Gamers can also unlock new warriors and combination attacks as they progress.

Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn

What do you get when you combine crafts and Kirby? Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn!

This game is adorable, and the graphics are eye candy. You’ve never seen Kirby like this. Kirby can change forms and even do magic in addition to his classic abilities.

BoxBoxBoy

Qbby is back and better than ever! Our favorite box returns in this minimalist puzzler, and this time he’s twice as boxy. Gamers get to play Qbby and his double as they work to solve 11 different puzzle worlds.

With new suits, comics, and music BoxBoxBoy is sure to remain a classic.

Etrian Odyssey Nexus

Etrian Odyssey Nexus is an action RPG. This game allows players to form a character from 19 different classes.

Players are encouraged to form parties and raid dungeons as they explore the world of Lemuria.

Theatrhythm Final Fantasy: Curtain Call

Theatrhythm Final Fantasy: Curtain Call is the much-awaited return of Final Fantasy Rhythm.

With over 200 songs from across the series, fans are sure to love this ode to an iconic franchise.

Metroid: Samus Returns

Fall back in love with an original classic with Metroid: Samus Returns.

This remake provides players with a new 3D take on a well-loved side-scrolling space adventure.

With two new Aiimbos, lore about Planet SR388’s origins, and new combat modes, Metroid: Samus Returns.

The Bottom Line

The 3DS and 2DS is still a great system with a lot to offer. Hopefully, our list reminds those of you with a 3DS why you like yours so much. If you don’t have a 3DS and you're looking for an older system to try out, then a 3DS and this list is an excellent place to start.

Like our list or have a favorite 3DS game, not on our list? Leave us a comment and let us know.