The Ultimate Guide to 3DS Hidden Gems: Unveiling 25 Must-Play Games for Every Gamer

Highlights

The Nintendo 3DS has a robust library of quality titles that saved Nintendo from the failure of the Wii U.

The 3DS has a plethora of hidden gems, from underrated JRPGs like Crimson Shroud to action platformers like Okami, that deserve more attention from players.

Although the console itself is no longer popular, the Nintendo 3DS has an impressive collection of high-quality games. Initially, the handheld device was deemed a failure but managed to turn its fortunes around and become one of the best handheld consoles of all time. Players fell in love with the extensive library of exceptional games, making it the successor to the legendary Nintendo DS.

While it's common to praise the top-tier titles on the 3DS, many players have already explored them thoroughly. Instead, let's shine a light on the hidden gems that may have gone unnoticed. The success of this handheld console saved Nintendo from the disastrous performance of the Wii U. One of the main reasons behind its triumph was the abundance of outstanding games, some of which didn't receive the recognition they truly deserved.

As of August 13, 2023, Ritwik Mitra updated that the Nintendo 3DS is a remarkable portable gaming device that played a crucial role in maintaining Nintendo's significance during the eighth generation of video game consoles.

Given the flaws and lack of foresight in the Wii U, there were concerns that Nintendo's console development would suffer severely. Nevertheless, the company redeemed itself by introducing the Switch, impressing fans with its groundbreaking innovation. Despite this, the 3DS remains cherished by numerous fans, who feel that certain games on this console are unfairly undervalued.

21 Crimson Shroud

Level-5 is widely recognized for their acclaimed Professor Layton and Ni no Kuni series. However, their impressive repertoire extends far beyond these well-known titles. Unfortunately, the vast majority of their exceptional creations have not received the appreciation and acknowledgement they truly deserve. Among these overlooked gems is Crimson Shroud, a captivating JRPG that heavily relies on dice rolls to determine the many outcomes in combat.

Yasumi Matsuno, the brilliant video game designer behind Crimson Shroud, played a major role in the development of Ivalice, a captivating world within the Final Fantasy universe that has been extensively explored. Despite the remarkable talents involved in its creation, Crimson Shroud remains a forgotten fragment of gaming history, which is truly disheartening.

20 Etrian Odyssey 4: Legends Of The Titan

Almost every Etrian Odyssey game on the 3DS is often overlooked, despite being potential hidden gems. While these games can be challenging, players who understand the gameplay mechanics and how they work together will find themselves immersed in the challenging dungeon-crawling gameplay of Etrian Odyssey 4.

The game's simplistic concept may deter some, but it is the exhilarating combat that truly captivates players. The combat system is rich in complexity, and those who are struggling against enemies should conduct research to prevent repeatedly hitting a roadblock in their playthrough.

19 Fantasy Life

Fantasy Life, developed by Level-5, received praise from both fans and critics, but unfortunately, it never gained the recognition it truly deserved. This unique gem combines simulation elements with the beloved JRPG genre, resulting in a game that is filled with content and possesses a lighthearted tone.

The portable nature of the 3DS made Fantasy Life a perfect game. Players could easily take out their console, complete a quick task or two, and then set it aside. Not every JRPG needs an epic storyline featuring powerful deities orchestrating the world's end. Sometimes, simplicity is what players desire, and in this aspect, Fantasy Life truly delivers.

18 Resident Evil Revelations

The Nintendo 3DS showcased numerous fantastic games suitable for families, but that doesn't mean it shied away from Teen or Mature-rated titles. A prime illustration of this change in tone was Resident Evil Revelations, an unexpected standout in the franchise. This release focused on the renowned character Jill Valentine, accompanied by BSAA member Parker Luciani, as they investigated an abandoned cruise ship in search of Chris Redfield.

The game presents the beloved classic gameplay style of Resident Evil that players have grown fond of, combined with a captivating setting on a vast and maze-like cruise ship teeming with intriguing destinations and formidable adversaries.

17 Okami

If you're in search of a visually stunning 3D action platformer with a unique style, look no further than Okami. Its breathtaking visuals, a combination of cel-shading and watercolor painting, make it one of the most visually striking games ever created. For those who appreciate Japanese culture and crave an exciting visual experience, Okami will certainly not disappoint.

However, Okami is not just about its stunning appearance. Beyond its beautiful storybook-like adventure lies a gameplay experience that is highly enjoyable. This is a game that should be played and appreciated by all gamers.

16 The World Ends With You

Fans of the Kingdom Hearts series, particularly Chain of Memories, will undoubtedly be acquainted with the game developer Jupiter. Collaborating with Square Enix, they have created their own series called The World Ends With You, an action role-playing game that combines fantastical elements with a contemporary and stylish flair.

Set in Shibuya, the story revolves around a group of teenagers who exude an Anime-style appearance. The game offers enjoyable combat features and captivating mechanics that give it a unique feel, yet it also evokes a sense of familiarity with classic action RPG titles that 3DS owners may have experienced.

15 SteamWorld Dig 2

Building upon the success of their 2013 sleeper hit, Image & Form expands on the captivating gameplay of SteamWorld Dig in their latest offering for Nintendo's handheld console. This enhanced version not only fleshes out the details and expands the world, but also provides a more diverse and immersive experience.

Describing it as a more accessible alternative to Terraria, SteamWorld Dig 2 combines elements of platforming, combat, and resource-gathering. The game effortlessly captivates players with its easy-to-learn mechanics and captivating steampunk themes. However, what truly keeps players hooked is its satisfying gameplay, complemented by a unique range of tools and steam-powered upgrades.

With its intuitive interface and touch-enabled features, SteamWorld Dig 2 proves to be a perfect fit for the 3DS, allowing players to easily pick it up and delve into its captivating world.

14 Project X Zone

Monolith Soft, renowned for their highly regarded RPG series Xenoblade on Nintendo platforms, also created a lesser-known yet equally enjoyable tactical RPG in 2012. Enter Project X Zone, a game that pulls together beloved characters from Namco Bandai, Capcom, and Sega, including iconic figures like Phoenix Wright and Legend of Valkyrie. This role-playing adventure spans a whopping 60 hours, offering an epic experience. Despite its immense size, Project X Zone keeps players engaged throughout with its entertaining storyline, vibrant characters, and a delightful blend of strategy and action in its combat system.

Similar to its predecessor Namco x Capcom, which was only released in Japan in 2005, this game provides a memorable tribute to some of Japan's biggest gaming icons.

13 Tales Of The Abyss

Often overlooked because it is a port of a PS2 game, this version of Tales on the 3DS is beloved by fans and considered one of the best RPGs on the platform. Following the tradition of the Namco series, Tales of the Abyss captivates players with its charming anime art style and an engaging story featuring a struggling hero battling a sinister force.

The 3DS enhances the already enjoyable and fast-paced combat of this action RPG with its responsive touch controls. It also provides a convenient world map for easy navigation during travel. This captivating adventure is a hidden treasure on the handheld, offering a lengthy gameplay experience of around 50 hours.

12 Heroes Of Ruin

Familiarity with the Diablo series should provide players with a basic understanding of Heroes of Ruin. Developed by n-Space and published by Square Enix, this isometric action RPG makes full use of the 3DS' online features such as SpotPass and Street Pass. These capabilities enable players to trade items and tackle daily challenges.

Set in a magical kingdom where the guardian of a city has been cursed, players can customize their character and embark on traditional dungeon crawling adventures either on their own or with friends online. While Heroes of Ruin may not match the exceptional standards set by other Square Enix classics or the games it draws inspiration from, it is still a solid addition to the 3DS library.

11 Ghost Recon: Shadow Wars

Most players have likely forgotten about the Ghost Recon game on the 3DS, if they were even aware of its existence. However, it is important not to dismiss Ubisoft's turn-based tactical title. Drawing inspiration from popular franchises such as Fire Emblem, Wars, and Final Fantasy Tactics, Ghost Recon: Shadow Wars offers familiar gameplay mechanics while introducing new cover mechanics to rejuvenate the franchise.

Featuring various game modes and a lengthy 35-hour storyline, there is plenty to appreciate in this game. Despite its merits, it is unfortunate that Ghost Recon: Shadow Wars seems to have been overlooked.

10 Code Name: S.T.E.A.M

Code Name: S.T.E.A.M, developed by Intelligent Systems, is often seen as Nintendo's quirky response to Sega's Valkyria Chronicles series. With the Japanese title of Lincoln vs Aliens, this game combines turn-based tactical gameplay with third-person action, offering an intriguing steampunk-infused adventure where Abraham Lincoln battles hordes of extraterrestrials.

The unique blend of eccentricity and excellent design makes Code Name: S.T.E.A.M a perfect fit for the 3DS. However, despite its undeniable quality, it seems to have gone somewhat unnoticed. Perhaps its deep and complex mechanics discourage some, or maybe the concept of a steampunk-style Abe Lincoln lacks widespread appeal. Nonetheless, this game remains a fantastic experience.

9 Ever Oasis

Grezzo's action RPG seamlessly combines town management with classic adventure gameplay, taking inspiration from the legendary Mana series. Set in a world where the goal is to restore a town, players are tasked with bringing in new residents, assisting them, and reaping the rewards. Through engaging quests that require players to explore beyond the town's boundaries, every decision made has a direct impact on the development of their little oasis.

What sets this game apart is that progress isn't merely measured by character stats, but also by the visible transformation of the player's town. From humble sand dunes to a vibrant city teeming with life, players can witness the evolution of their town as they embark on this captivating journey.

8 Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor Overclocked

Shin Megami Tensei is regarded as one of the top RPG franchises, and several of its best games can be found on the 3DS. While Shin Megami Tensei 4 and its sequel are highly praised, Devil Survivor Overclocked is equally impressive.

As an enhanced version of a remarkable 3DS title, Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor Overclocked builds upon the gameplay and storyline. This involves a scenario where modern-day Tokyo is under attack by digital demons, and only our protagonist possesses the ability to thwart, capture, and merge them. The game also features updated visuals and additional content from the original 2009 release.

7 Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy

Final Fantasy, a renowned franchise in the realm of video games, boasts an iconic soundtrack that has stood the test of time. It comes as no surprise, then, that Square-Enix has entrusted Indieszero, a skilled developer, with the task of creating a game that pays homage to this cherished aspect of the illustrious series.

In this remarkable game, players have the opportunity to assemble a party of four characters hailing from the first 13 games in the series. Engaging in epic battles against formidable bosses and embarking on immersive stages, all while being accompanied by the unforgettable melodies of gaming's most esteemed music, truly encapsulates the essence of Final Fantasy. It is an outright celebration of this beloved franchise, making it an essential experience for any fan.

6 Shinobi 3D

Before Sonic The Hedgehog, Joe Musashi from Shinobi was Sega's unofficial mascot. Although the 2D-ninja platforming series may not have been widely popular, it had some highly revered games. Sega revived the franchise on the 3DS with an exceptional side-scrolling adventure.

In this game, players assume the role of Jiro, Joe's father, who unexpectedly gets transported 800 years into the future and even to outer space. Despite altering the series' long-established protagonist, this game is a remarkable arcade-focused title on a system that lacks similar games in its collection.

5 HarmoKnight

Game Freak, famous for their immensely popular Pokemon games, occasionally creates games unrelated to that universe, and these games tend to be exceptional. A prime example is HarmoKnight, a unique blend of rhythm and platforming. In this game, players navigate through 2D levels, gathering musical notes and creating their own soundtrack as they progress.

As Tempo, the protagonist, players must race through scrolling levels while collecting music notes along the way. However, mistiming a jump may result in a minor error, causing the game's soundtrack to be slightly offbeat. This aspect of the game demands incredible precision, but it is also relatively easy for players to regain their rhythm and continue smoothly.

4 Nano Assault

In this exhilarating shoot 'em up by Shin'en Multimedia, players are treated to a nostalgic arcade-style gaming experience, despite its 2011 release. Similar to its predecessor, Nanostray on the DS, this game initially struggled to stand out among a crowded market of action titles. However, it easily holds its own thanks to its stunning visuals, solid mechanics, and thrilling shooter gameplay, even though it may be shorter in length.

In a premise that feels incredibly relevant in the year 2020, players are tasked with eliminating microscopic viruses that pose a threat. With over 30 cosmic stages to conquer, players will navigate through plague-infested micro planets reminiscent of Super Mario Galaxy, shooting their way to victory.

3 Kid Icarus: Uprising

Rarely does a Nintendo-branded property go unnoticed, but that is exactly the case with this captivating atmospheric shooter - just like the fate of the Kid Icarus series as a whole. While this character, inspired by Greek mythology, is most recognized for his appearances in Super Smash Bros., he also takes center stage in what can be considered one of the top exclusive titles for the 3DS.

After a lengthy wait of more than twenty years, the protagonist Pit finally gets the opportunity to show off his abilities in this thrilling third-person shooter. Gamers who enjoy arcade-style action, particularly those that involve intense aerial combat like Bayonetta, need not search any further for a hidden gem provided by Nintendo and Project Sora.

2 Rune Factory 4

Gamers have long pondered what it would be like if Harvest Moon incorporated dungeon-crawling aspects. Rune Factory has provided the answer, and its fourth installment is arguably the finest.

Featuring a three-arc storyline, players embark on a journey as the protagonist who awakens in a quaint town. Alongside farming and crafting, players must navigate dungeons and cultivate relationships with various characters. These relationships play a vital role in the game, with scattered events in the plot designed to deepen them. It's worth noting that not all relationships are of a romantic nature, lending an authentic touch to the overall gameplay.