Top Nintendo 3DS Games To Play In 2022
The Nintendo 3DS, despite being succeeded by the Nintendo Switch, still holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers. Its unique dual-screen design and impressive library of games make it a console worth revisiting. Even in 2022, there are plenty of reasons to dust off your 3DS and dive back into its vast collection of titles. This article will explore some of the best Nintendo 3DS games you can still enjoy in 2022, offering a mix of classic favorites and hidden gems that continue to provide hours of entertainment.
Why the 3DS Still Matters in 2022
Before we jump into the list, let's address why the 3DS is still relevant. Firstly, the 3DS boasts a massive library of games that are exclusive to the system. Many of these titles have not been ported or remastered for other platforms, making the 3DS the only way to experience them. Secondly, the 3DS offers a unique gaming experience with its dual screens and 3D capabilities. While the 3D effect might not be for everyone, it adds a distinct layer of immersion to certain games. Finally, the 3DS is relatively inexpensive compared to newer consoles, making it an accessible option for gamers on a budget. Its backwards compatibility with Nintendo DS games further sweetens the deal, providing an even larger pool of games to choose from.
The console’s durability is also a significant factor. Many gamers have had their 3DS systems for years, and they continue to function perfectly. This reliability means that even if you haven't touched your 3DS in a while, chances are it's still ready to go. The nostalgia factor is also undeniable. For many, the 3DS represents a significant part of their gaming history, filled with fond memories of exploring virtual worlds and connecting with friends through local multiplayer. The eShop, while no longer allowing new purchases, still allows access to previously bought digital titles, ensuring that your digital library remains accessible. This combination of factors makes the 3DS a console that continues to offer value and enjoyment in 2022.
Must-Play Nintendo 3DS Games in 2022
Now, let's get to the main event: the games! Here’s a curated list of some of the best Nintendo 3DS games that are still worth playing in 2022.
The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds
The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds is a standout title in the Zelda franchise and a must-have for any 3DS owner. Set in the world of A Link to the Past, this game introduces a unique wall-merging mechanic that allows Link to flatten himself against walls and traverse the environment in new and creative ways. This mechanic adds a fresh layer of puzzle-solving and exploration to the classic Zelda formula, making it feel both familiar and innovative. The storyline is engaging, filled with memorable characters and unexpected twists. The dungeons are cleverly designed, each requiring players to utilize the wall-merging ability in different ways to overcome obstacles and defeat enemies. The game's vibrant graphics and charming soundtrack further enhance the overall experience, creating a world that is both captivating and immersive.
What makes A Link Between Worlds particularly enjoyable is its non-linear structure. Unlike many other Zelda games, you can tackle the dungeons in almost any order, giving you a greater sense of freedom and control over your adventure. This non-linearity encourages exploration and experimentation, as you discover new paths and strategies for completing the game. The item system is also unique, allowing you to rent or buy items from a shop instead of finding them in dungeons. This system adds a strategic element to the gameplay, as you must decide which items are most essential for your current objective. Whether you're a long-time Zelda fan or new to the series, A Link Between Worlds is a fantastic entry that showcases the best of what the 3DS has to offer. The game's innovative mechanics, engaging storyline, and charming presentation make it a timeless classic that continues to delight players in 2022.
Pokémon X and Y / Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire
The Pokémon franchise has always been a cornerstone of Nintendo's handheld consoles, and Pokémon X and Y and Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire are two of the best entries on the 3DS. X and Y introduced the Kalos region, inspired by France, and brought with it a host of new Pokémon, including the iconic Mega Evolutions. These Mega Evolutions added a new layer of strategy to battles, allowing Pokémon to temporarily transform into more powerful forms. The games also featured a more streamlined and user-friendly interface, making it easier for new players to jump into the world of Pokémon. The storyline is engaging, filled with memorable characters and challenging battles. The online features were also significantly improved, allowing players to trade and battle with others around the world.
Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire are remakes of the classic Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire games, bringing the Hoenn region to life with updated graphics and gameplay mechanics. These games retained the charm and appeal of the originals while adding new features, such as the ability to soar through the skies on the back of a Mega Latios or Mega Latias. The remakes also included a new post-game storyline that expanded on the lore of the Hoenn region. Both X and Y and Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire offer hundreds of hours of gameplay, with plenty of Pokémon to catch, battles to win, and secrets to uncover. Whether you're a seasoned Pokémon trainer or new to the series, these games are essential for any 3DS owner. The engaging storylines, diverse Pokémon, and improved online features make them timeless classics that continue to captivate players in 2022. These Pokémon titles on the 3DS remain stellar examples of the franchise's enduring appeal.
Super Mario 3D Land
Super Mario 3D Land is a delightful blend of classic 2D Mario gameplay and modern 3D platforming. This game was designed specifically for the 3DS, utilizing the system's 3D capabilities to create a unique and immersive experience. The levels are cleverly designed, taking full advantage of the 3D effect to create optical illusions and challenging platforming sections. The game introduces new power-ups, such as the Tanooki Suit from Super Mario Bros. 3, which allows Mario to glide through the air and attack enemies with his tail. The storyline is simple but charming, with Mario setting out to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser. The game's vibrant graphics and catchy soundtrack further enhance the overall experience, making it a joy to play from start to finish.
What makes Super Mario 3D Land particularly appealing is its accessibility. The game is easy to pick up and play, making it suitable for both casual and hardcore gamers. The difficulty curve is well-balanced, gradually introducing new challenges and mechanics as you progress through the game. The levels are also relatively short, making it perfect for playing in short bursts on the go. However, don't let its simplicity fool you; Super Mario 3D Land is also packed with secrets and challenges for those who want to delve deeper. There are hidden stars to collect, secret exits to find, and challenging bonus levels to unlock. Whether you're a long-time Mario fan or new to the series, Super Mario 3D Land is a must-have for any 3DS owner. The game's innovative level design, charming presentation, and accessible gameplay make it a timeless classic that continues to delight players in 2022. It's a testament to Mario's enduring popularity and the 3DS's unique capabilities.
Animal Crossing: New Leaf
Animal Crossing: New Leaf is a life-simulation game that allows you to create your own virtual world and interact with a cast of charming animal villagers. In this game, you become the mayor of a small town and are responsible for shaping its development and making your villagers happy. You can decorate your house, collect items, fish, catch bugs, and participate in various events throughout the year. The game is incredibly relaxing and addictive, with a never-ending stream of activities to keep you engaged. The storyline is open-ended, allowing you to play at your own pace and focus on the aspects of the game that you enjoy the most. The game's charming graphics and cheerful soundtrack further enhance the overall experience, creating a world that is both inviting and immersive.
What makes Animal Crossing: New Leaf particularly special is its sense of community. You can visit other players' towns, trade items, and participate in multiplayer activities. The game also features a robust online community, with players sharing tips, tricks, and custom designs. The game's real-time clock and calendar ensure that there is always something new happening, whether it's a seasonal event, a villager's birthday, or a new item in the shop. Animal Crossing: New Leaf is a game that you can play for hours on end without ever getting bored. Whether you're a seasoned Animal Crossing fan or new to the series, this game is a must-have for any 3DS owner. The game's relaxing gameplay, charming characters, and strong sense of community make it a timeless classic that continues to delight players in 2022. It is one of the best life-simulation experiences available on the 3DS.
Fire Emblem: Awakening
Fire Emblem: Awakening is a tactical role-playing game that combines strategic battles with a compelling storyline and memorable characters. This game revitalized the Fire Emblem series, introducing new features and mechanics that made it more accessible to a wider audience. The battles are turn-based, requiring you to carefully position your units and utilize their unique skills to defeat the enemy. The game features a permadeath system, meaning that when a unit falls in battle, they are gone for good. This adds a sense of tension and consequence to every decision you make. The storyline is engaging, filled with political intrigue, personal drama, and unexpected twists. The characters are well-developed, each with their own unique personalities and motivations. The game's anime-style graphics and epic soundtrack further enhance the overall experience, creating a world that is both captivating and immersive.
What makes Fire Emblem: Awakening particularly special is its focus on relationships. You can build relationships between your units, which can lead to support conversations and even marriage. These relationships not only affect the gameplay, providing stat bonuses and new skills, but also add depth and emotion to the storyline. The game also features a robust customization system, allowing you to create your own avatar and personalize your units with different classes and skills. Fire Emblem: Awakening is a game that will challenge your strategic thinking and captivate your emotions. Whether you're a seasoned tactical RPG fan or new to the genre, this game is a must-have for any 3DS owner. The game's strategic battles, compelling storyline, and memorable characters make it a timeless classic that continues to delight players in 2022. This Fire Emblem installment is a masterpiece of tactical RPGs.
Conclusion
The Nintendo 3DS may be a last-generation console, but its library of games remains as impressive as ever. The titles listed above are just a small sampling of the many great games available on the system. Whether you're a fan of action-adventure, role-playing, simulation, or strategy games, there's something for everyone on the 3DS. So, dust off your 3DS, charge it up, and dive back into the world of handheld gaming. You might be surprised at just how much fun you can still have with this classic console in 2022.