Nintendo 3DS Celebrates 10 Years

To celebrate the 10^th anniversary of the release of the 3DS here in the UK, let’s rank some of our favourite games which we used to play back in the good old days of hand-held consoles.

This ranking is all about the 3DS, so unfortunately standard DS games will not be included.

10) Super Mario 3D Land

At number ten is Super Mario 3D Land, released back in 2011. This game was one of the first games to be released on the 3DS.

The reimagined classic Mario game – but in a 3D art style – explores Mario’s quest to rescue Princess Peach (once again) from the hands of Bowser. This title is very similar to Super Mario Bros on the Nintendo DS, but with additional features including “Tanooki Mario”: Mario dressed as a Racoon! As well as the introduction of “Cat Peach”, and more items to fight off enemies.

As a first 3DS title, this was a decent game to have played back in 2011, but in comparison to other games on this list, it just falls quite short.

9) Animal Crossing: New Leaf

Animal Crossing is the game everybody knows about, whether that be from the GameCube, or the Wii, or even the 3DS title. The friendly environment and uplifting music are staples within this game, which make for an easy playing experience.

The 3DS title is no exception. The game includes good quality graphics when building the world around you, from your own village, character customisation and visiting other players villages.

This humble game stands out for its time, however the series more updated, memorable titles on other consoles such as Nintendo Switch’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons.

8) Super Smash Bros 3D

The eighth spot on this list goes to Super Smash Bros for the Nintendo 3DS. This competitive game is a standout on every console, with the 3DS being no exception.

Being able to choose characters from Kirby to Pikachu to final fantasy characters, this game is all about fighting and knocking your opponents out of the match.

The 3DS version does well for its console considering it keeps the originality of the game similar to its previous generations. However, for Super Smash Bros, it’s one of those games best played on either the Wii U or the ultimate version on the Nintendo Switch. Great game, just maybe not the best console version.

7) New Super Mario Bros 2

The classic Nintendo game returns as a sequel. Mario and Luigi return in the retro style Mario game exploring the regions to save Princess Peach as usual, from Bowser.

This game is simple, but that is what makes it so great. Simplicity but challenging in areas, mixed in with mini boss battles from Bowser’s minions as well as numerous objectives throughout, all fit into this game perfectly.

Even though I prefer the original title from the DS, this game still upholds its rightful position as being one of the most fun games to race through while squashing some “Goomba” along the way.

6) Pokémon X and Y

It’s only right for the sixth generation of Pokémon to be ranked six on this list, as what a set of great games to include on this list.

The Pokémon series finally entered the world of 3D and what a different this made to the gameplay. Taking place in the Kalos region – this game is based on France, which was a brilliant concept. The European feel is felt throughout, with memorable music from Lumiose city, to great Pokémon such as Greninja and even one of the best mechanics in Pokémon – mega evolution

These games are a great addition to the catalogue of 3DS, I spent countless months playing and re-playing these games even when I was on a plane to Tunisia for my holiday. These games are the prime examples of classic Pokémon games on the console, doing much better than their generation seven counterparts: Sun and Moon/Ultra Sun and Moon, which I refuse to put on this list, the less said the better.

5) The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D

Ocarina of Time – arguably one the best Zelda remake games of the series. Since this year is the 35^th anniversary of Zelda, I have spent many hours exploring the lore and gameplay of many titles and when comparing all the games, this always reaches near the top of the pile.

A remake of the thrilling, exciting world to explore in The Kingdom of Hyrule returns in 3D. Players can enjoy the classic game with this fresh new coat over the top, as we return playing our hero protagonist Link on his mission to save the Kingdom.

The Zelda series is an iconic line full of expansive gameplay opportunities with the 3D version not falling short. Currently many fans of the series are awaiting the reveal of Breath of the Wild 2 for the Nintendo Switch, which may potentially be released in 2022. But for this version on a 3DS? One pretty decent Zelda game.

4. Nintendogs and Cats

Nintendogs but this time, cats and dogs? Take my money. Now! This game quintessentially takes all the great qualities of the classic Nintendogs game from the DS but includes so much more content.

From new types of dog breeds, to the full list of cats, you can create a loving home for these special animals while taking them out for walks and participating in the exciting contests.

What makes this game so great is the combination of the graphics and gameplay. The fact you can take your dog for a walk and enter a cute café along the way is so heart-warming to me.

This game pulls at your heartstring due to the adorableness of your chosen pets and made you check every day to see how they are getting along. Hope my Labrador who I named Stitch from Lilo and Stitch is still doing good since 2011…

3) Kingdom Hearts: Dream Drop Distance

Now this might be my personal bias kicking in, but how can I not put my favourite gaming series in the top three on this list.

Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance follows the story of Sora and his quest to defeat the villainous team the organisation XIII while rescuing his friends who went missing in the past.

For people who don’t know about this game, it’s a Disney and Final Fantasy cross over with a very complex but brilliant story, mixed in with fantastic fighting mechanics. What stands out most in this game is the lore, what felt like a long time for story progression in Kingdom Hearts games, finally happened in this title, which was just great to see.

This particular game lets you visit worlds based on some Disney classics, from the Hunchback of Notre Dame to Mickey Mouse and the Three Musketeers, not the best compared to others in the franchise but still some truly memorable worlds.

If you haven’t looked into Kingdom Hearts before, trust me you should.

2. Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire

Second place on our entry belongs rightly so to the generation three Pokémon remakes: Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire.

Where can I start with these games, they are potentially in the top three titles of Pokémon games of all times, from incredible graphics when overlooking the Hoenn Region on Latios and Latias, to having the best battling mechanics of any Pokémon game for the 3DS.

As these remakes were made in the sixth generation, they are influenced by both X and Y and the original Ruby and Sapphire counterparts but combined them to create a game worth playing. Pokémon contests, mega evolutions returning, Legendary hunting and many more. Only thing missing is the battle frontier, which I hope for in the generation four remakes.

A fully developed Pokémon game with a fresh spin on the Gameboy classic, while returning to one of the most love regions of all time.

1) Mario Kart 7

The rightful winner of this 3DS ranking list, the one and only Mariokart 7. The family fun game for all returned to the 3DS with a bang and one that left a lasting impression on player’s minds.

Mariokart 7 introduced the new gliding system, where parts of tracks allowed you to glide over the course and take shortcuts which added a whole new style of gameplay. Not only this, but it introduced new items such as the item of seven and inspiration of “Tanooki Mario” where a tail behind you helps defeat your fellow racers.

This title also bought some classic tracks back and introduced new ones such as the spin on ‘rainbow road’ which is possibly one of the best versions from all of the Mariokarts from every console.

A timeless entry into the Mariokart series, as well as one of the best Nintendo 3DS games out there. Now I’m off to play some 3DS and see what it’s like playing all these iconic titles again, thanks Nintendo for these amazing games.

So, as the Nintendo 3DS celebrates its 10^th anniversary, it’s a great opportunity to get your 3DS out once again and game once again.

By Jack Proverbs

Feature image: Nintendo.co.uk