With E3 on the horizon, it seems reasonable to wonder what games might be shown for this generation's most successful dedicated gaming platform, the Nintendo 3DS. But what are you playing while you wait for that new trailer for "Pokemon Sun and Moon?"
After more than five years on the market and more than 60 million units sold worldwide, the 3DS has certainly amassed itself an impressive collection of games that cover a wide variety of genres. You've likely heard about "Super Mario 3D Land," "Super Smash Bros," and the "Fire Emblem" that have become some of the system's best sellers, but what else is out there? Here are some great 3DS titles that you may have overlooked for one reason or another.
1. Kid Icarus Uprising
Okay, so maybe you have heard of this one. Pit's triumphant return found a fair amount of popularity when it first released in 2012, but it was also met with a bit of controversy. Concerns over the game's unorthodox controls kept some from playing this gem. Despite being released relatively early in the 3DS's lifetime, this game makes the most of the system's capabilities to create a product that is not only packed with content, but also looks fantastic. Some adjustment to the controls is well worth enjoying the characters' hilarious banter and the surprisingly well-made online multiplayer.
2. Code Name: S.T.E.A.M.
Made by the developers behind "Fire Emblem" and "Paper Mario," this underappreciated title quietly released last March. It's a game about Abraham Lincoln joining forces with literary characters to form a steampunk defense against Lovecraft-inspired aliens, all presented in the style of Golden Age comic books. It's a unique mishmash of ideas that comes together beautifully to make a refreshingly challenging strategy game in the style of the "X-COM" games. If you missed out on this one, you can now pick up for less than $10 at your local Gamestop, which is an absolute steal.
3. Fossil Fighters Frontier
The "Pokemon" games aren't the only creature collecting RPGs on the 3DS. The third entry in the "Fossil Fighters" franchise is another underappreciated 2015 release. "Fossil Fighters" distinguishes itself from "Pokemon" in many ways, including a much more involved story, a totally unique battle system and, most importantly, a focus on dinosaurs. This game also looks great and boasts one of the catchiest theme songs you'll find in recent gaming memory.
4. Chibi-Robo! Zip Lash
Chibi-Robo takes on 2D platforming in this title. Nintendo has no shortage of great platformers, and so the decision to give Chibi-Robo one seemed questionable at first. Thankfully, the end result manages to stand out in the sea of similar games. "Zip Lash" provides more of a challenge than "New Super Mario Bros. 2" and "Kirby Triple Deluxe" while also making the most of a very satisfying whip mechanic. Not to mention the game supports the adorable Chibi-Robo Amiibo which is sold bundled with the physical copy of the game.
5. Xenoblade Chronicles 3D
If you've yet to play "Xenoblade Chronicles," I implore you to do so soon. The Monolith Soft game first released on the Wii in 2012 and has since received ports to the New 3DS and the Wii U Virtual Console. While this game cannot be played on older 3DS models, that only comes as a result of its incredible vastness. The massive RPG easily takes more than 60 hours to complete and completing all of the sidequests can nearly double that. Most importantly, "Xenoblade Chronicles" tells the best story you'll find on the 3DS and likely one of the best you'll find in any game. Play it on the New 3DS, play it on the Wii, play it on Wii U; just, please, play it.
6. Chibi-Robo! Photo Finder
Yes, that's right, there are two "Chibi-Robo" games on 3DS and they're both worth playing. "Photo Finder" is very different from "Zip Lash." It possesses the same undeniable charm, but this game is far more unique, likely one of the most unique experiences you'll find on 3DS. That's because you'll play a lot of this game in the real world. There are addicting mini-games and tasks to complete in-game, but a huge part of "Photo Finder" is your photo taking skills. The game will ask you to hunt down a variety of specific items to photograph with the 3DS camera. These items range from light sockets and cans to toy airplanes and Nintendo GameCubes. It's not a game for everyone, but dedicated gamers will find that "Photo Finder" challenges them in unprecedented ways. This game is an eshop exclusive that sells for just $9.99.
7. Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D
"Donkey Kong Country Returns," like "Xenoblade Chronicles," started off as a Wii game and was later ported onto the 3DS. If you missed it on the Wii, pick it up on 3DS. One of the most well-designed platforming games in recent memory, this game provides a very real challenge. Completing it is extremely satisfying and requires absolute precision and timing. Now a part of the Nintendo Selects line, the game sells for $20 new. It's a value that can't be beat.
8. The Legend of Zelda: Tri Force Heroes
Everyone loves "The Legend of Zelda." But the 3DS is now home to remakes of beloved titles like "Ocarina of Time" and "Majora's Mask" in addition to 2013 Game of the Year winner "A Link Between Worlds." It's easy to forget that "Tri Force Heroes" exists in the shadows of those giants. In the spirit of the "Four Swords" games, "Tri Force Heroes" emphasizes multiplayer. The game supports local and online play and requires teamwork to solve puzzles and defeat bosses. It's a must-own for any Zelda fan looking to mix up the traditional formula.
9. Pilotwings Resort
"Kid Icarus" isn't the only Nintendo series to make a comeback on the 3DS. "Pilotwings" makes a triumphant return in this "Wii Sports Resort"-inspired entry. Anyone looking for a dedicated flight simulator will find it here. "Resort" has players utilize gliders, planes, and jet-packs to complete various challenges. Tight controls and creative objectives that require percise play make this game a worthy successor to the "Pilotwings" games of old.
10. Yoshi's New Island
"New Island" certainly isn't the riskiest game on 3DS, but it is certainly a solid one. Yoshi's latest handheld outing stays true to the formula that made the original "Yoshi's Island" so beloved. It's definitely worth the $20 Nintendo Selects price tag, both for Yoshi fans and series newcomers.
These are just a few of the awesome gems in the ever-growing 3DS library. Give some of them a try while we await news for what's to come next!
