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For those who prefer digital downloads to physical copies or perhaps want to make use of the handheld’s Virtual Console, now is the time to stock up on some of the best games available on the system before it’s too late.
7 Pokemon Red And Blue
Pokemon Red and Pokemon Blue were originally released in Japan in February 1996 before making their way to the west over two years later. The pair of games were the world’s introduction to the now-iconic Pokemon franchise, which has become a major name in many different forms of entertainment.
Although many of Pokemon Red and Blue’s core mechanics and features have been improved upon in the series’ many other releases, the game still holds up today as it nailed the basics and will give many people a blast of nostalgia.
6 The Legend Of Zelda: Ocarina Of Time 3D
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D was released in June 2011 and, as the name suggests, is a 3D remaster of the classic N64 adventure. The purchase is a no-brainer for anyone who hasn’t already played the original masterpiece, though it’s also worth considering for those who have, thanks to the range of quality of life improvements.
Along with the gorgeous new visuals, the game makes inventory management far easier, removes some of the infamous Water Temple issues, and adds seamless touchscreen gameplay.
5 Super Mario World
Super Mario World was first released all the way back in November 1990, though it is still considered to be one of, if not the greatest side-scrolling platformer of all time.
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The game had the tough task of following the NES’ Super Mario Bros. 3 but managed to improve upon it with crisp SNES visuals, ingenious level design, and the introduction of fan-favorite Yoshi. Being able to play Super Mario World on the handheld 3DS is a delight and an opportunity that shouldn’t be missed.
4 Luigi’s Mansion Dark Moon
Luigi’s Mansion Dark Moon (also known as Luigi’s Mansion 2 in Europe and Australia) was first released exclusively on the Nintendo 3DS in March 2013, before a surprise on-rail light gun version of the game titled Luigi’s Mansion Arcade released in arcades in June 2015.
Luigi’s Mansion Dark Moon has many similarities to its predecessor, with the player being sent to haunted mansions by Professor E. Gadd equipped with the Poltergust 5000 vacuum. The game was well-received by critics and scored an impressive 86 on Metacritic.
3 Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D
Donkey Kong Country Returns was originally released on the Nintendo Wii in November 2010 before making its way to the 3DS in May 2013. However, the 3DS version wasn’t just a straight port, as Monster Games rebuilt the game from the ground up.
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Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D features two different modes. The first is Original Mode which, as the name suggests, is virtually identical to the Wii version; and the second is New Mode which includes an extra world and more items to make the game easier. Both versions of the game were well-received by fans and critics, and although they lacked the innovation of the original Donkey Kong Country, they offered a great modern take on the classic formula that is well worth buying while the eShop is still open.
2 Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy
Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy was first released on iOS before coming to Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, and Android. A physical version of the 3DS game was only released in Japan, making it an essential purchase for anyone wanting to play the visual novel on Nintendo’s handheld system.
Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy includes Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney, Justice for All, and Trials and Tribulations, three point and click games that put players in control of a defense attorney who specializes in criminal trials. The trilogy of games is well-written, bursting with personality, and provides an immense sense of satisfaction when a case is solved.
1 Animal Crossing: New Leaf
Animal Crossing: New Leaf was released exclusively on the Nintendo 3DS, first in Japan in 2012 and then in the west the following year. The social simulation game was beloved by fans and critics, exemplified by its 88 critic score and 8.7 user score on Metacritic.
Although the excellent Animal Crossing: New Horizonshas overshadowed New Leaf in many aspects, the 3DS game is still worth getting for fans of the series or newcomers. New Leaf offers great value for money with how easy it is to sink numerous hours into the game, especially on a handheld console that can slot into the player’s pocket.
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