Top Nintendo 3DS Games to Play: Best Picks Ranked 2025
While the Nintendo 3DS may be considered retro by now, it is still regarded as a timeless handheld console with a robust catalog of games. In 2025, fans and collectors are still pouring into the portable system because of its dual-screen feature and rich game collection. The nostalgia appeal does not hurt either. For veterans of the gaming world or newcomers encountering the handheld for the first time, the guide tailored to the best Nintendo 3DS games guarantees maximum usage of your time.
Why the Nintendo 3DS Still Holds Relevance in 2025
Even after years of discontinuation, the 3DS remains relevant for the following reasons:
- A vast collection of high-rated and critically acclaimed titles
- Compatible with Nintendo DS games
- Unique functions such as Street Pass, Spot Pass, and 3D stereoscopy
- Accessibility through the secondhand market and emulation
While modern consoles and PC games grab all the attention, the 3DS still offers unique and nostalgic gameplay experiences.
Top Nintendo 3DS Games to Play in 2025 — The Ultimate Ranked List
In this article, I focus on the best and timeless games that still stand out on 3DS. My choices consider the gameplay mechanics, the plot, replay value, community reactions and the franchise impact.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Link Between Worlds
A spiritual successor to the SNES classic, A Link Between Worlds brings Hyrule to life with vibrant visuals and brilliant puzzle mechanics. The innovative “wall merge” feature, where Link transforms into a 2D painting, redefines traditional Zelda gameplay and exemplifies why this title remains a top Nintendo 3DS game to play in 2025.
2. Fire Emblem: Awakening
As the game that revived the Fire Emblem franchise, Awakening brought players rich narratives, strategic turn-based fighting, and character lore. This tactical RPG stands out because it customizes units, relationship systems, and permadeath features.
3. Pokemon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon
These are truly supplementary enhancements to the Gen VII experience as they expand the Alola region introduced in Pokemon Sun and Moon. For 2025 casual and competitive players, Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon are an indispensable expansion thanks to the Ultra Wormhole, newer Pokémon forms, and additional post-story content.
4. Animal Crossing: New Leaf – Welcome Amiibo
New Horizons’ predecessor and pandemic hit, New Leaf introduced the pleasures of small-town life alongside mayoral duties. The Welcome amiibo update revitalized it, and today the game remains one of the most enjoyable, relaxing, and fulfilling experiences on the Nintendo 3DS.
5. Super Mario 3D Land
Mario 3D Land showcases masterful level design, merging 3D3D worlds with 2D side-scrolling gameplay. Like many evergreen Nintendo titles, this one is perfect for short and long play sessions thanks to its age and challenge balancing.
6. Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon
This spooky sequel delivers charming scares, clever puzzles, and ghost-hunting mechanics powered by the Poltergust 5000. With multiple mansions and online multiplayer features, Dark Moon remains a hauntingly fun experience in the 3DS library.
7. Bravely Default
Square Enix’s return to classic JRPG roots, Bravely Default, features a compelling job system, turn-based combat, and a beautiful hand-drawn art style. The innovative Brave and Default mechanics offer deep strategy, ensuring its place as one of the top Nintendo 3DS games in 2025.
8. Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate
MH4U became a staple for cooperative hunting gameplay as the Monster Hunter series exploded globally. It features some of the fastest-paced multiplayer mayhem on the 3DS, with dozens of monsters to battle, fluid combat and rich online capabilities.
9. Kid Icarus: Uprising
Kid Icarus: Uprising brings back a cult hit with piercing dialogue, ground-based missions, and aerial combat full of witty banter. Augmented Reality (AR) cards and 3DS’s touchscreen features keep elevating it, thus ensuring cult status in 2025.
10. Metroid: Samus Returns
Samus Returns is a modern remake of Metroid II. Stunning visuals accompany fluid controls and parry mechanics. This game is a perfect middle ground between retro Metroidvania-style games and contemporary design ideals, catering to atmosphere exploration enthusiasts.
Hidden Gems of the 3DS
Although the top 10 are the best picks ranked, these honorable mentions merit being included in your 2025 gaming lineup:
- Shin Megami Tensei IV: An intricately dark, morally ambiguous demon-driven RPG centered around high-stakes choices.
- Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy: Engaging narrative-revolving, polished puzzle adventures are captivating mental challenges.
- Xenoblade Chronicles 3D: The Wii masterpiece was adapted for the New Nintendo 3DS and thus, gets this port.
The 3DS is undeniably an eclectic console with games that explore these topics. Each of these titles offers rich narratives and unique mechanics and showcases the diversity of the 3DS platform.
How to Play 3DS Games in 2025
As physical cartridges become rarer, here are a few ways you can still enjoy the top Nintendo 3DS games in 2025:
- Buy pre-owned games from reputable retro retailers or online marketplaces
- Use legitimate digital downloads (where still supported)
- Emulation through Citra on PC for enhanced graphics and mod support
- Always prioritize ethical gaming and support developers when possible
Final Thoughts: Why These 3DS Games Still Shine
The Nintendo 3DS games to revisit in 2025 still showcase exemplary creativity and top-notch design. If you’re looking for deep RPGs, engaging social simulations, or even gripping action games, the 3DS has a handpicked collection that will never be forgotten.
Relearning these titles is fascinating and these gems and the complete 3DS handheld experience still stand high in portable gaming entertainment. Unpack your 3DS console or start your emulator; now is the perfect moment to relive the magic.
