While the console is essentially dead, the Nintendo 3DS has one of the most robust libraries stacked full of quality titles, though it did take some time to fill out. The handheld saw some stagnation when first launched, to be sure. But the tides did eventually turn, and it’s now considered among the best handhelds of all time, in no small part because players loved the library of brilliant 3D games that could be experienced on this juiced-up DS successor.
The 24 Rarest 3DS Games (& How Much They’re Worth)
The 3DS is gone but not forgotten. Of all the games in its massive library, these are the rarest and most valuable.
It makes sense to celebrate the best titles from this great handheld, though the spotlight has already been greatly shone on the heavy-hitters. Instead, it seemed like a good idea to focus on the 3DS hidden gems that may have flown under the radar. After all, this handheld is the source of Nintendo staying afloat following Wii U’s lack of success. This was mainly due to the wealth of awesome games on this system, along with some underrated 3DS games not getting the attention they deserved.
Updated on April 9, 2026 by Mark Sammut: Nintendo has firmly put the 3DS in the rearview mirror, much to the chagrin of many folks who grew up and still use the handheld console. While the Switch and Switch 2 nowadays rule the market, the 3DS was arguably just as important a system, as it helped keep Nintendo afloat while the Wii U was fading into the abyss.
I’ve updated the article with new games, some new images, and information boxes.
Who’s That Character?
Identify the silhouettes before time runs out.
Identify the silhouettes before time runs out.
Easy (7.5s)Medium (5.0s)Hard (2.5s)Permadeath (2.5s)
22
Dementium Remastered
An M17+ Survival Horror FPS On The 3DS… Such A Thing Exists?
Dementium Remastered
- Released
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December 3, 2015
- ESRB
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M For Mature 17+ // Intense Violence, Blood and Gore
- Developer(s)
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Renegade Kid
Like how the original Dementium stood out in the Nintendo DS’s library due to its mature content and genres, the remaster does the same on the 3DS. Admittedly, releasing on the same console as Resident Evil: Revelations made it feel a bit less special, but there are still barely any competent horror or FPS games on the 3DS. Dementium started life as a Silent Hill pitch, and that DNA can be seen in the final version’s psychological horror and gameplay loop.
While the original version was too flawed to really recommend, Dementium Remastered improved most of its issues, making it a far better option. It improved the checkpoint system, enemy respawns, and performance; in fact, Dementium Remastered ran really well on the 3DS. Unfortunately, Dementium Remastered was a digital-only release, so it is pretty much impossible to buy the 3DS version nowadays. The game received an HD port, so it is at least available on the Switch.
21
Adventure Bar Story
An Interesting Bar-Based Hybrid Of Final Fantasy Tactics And Harvest Moon
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Release Date |
October 26, 2015 |
|---|---|
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Developer(s) |
Rideon |
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Platform(s) |
Nintendo 3DS |
While renditions of this tactical RPG from Rideon have made their way on Steam and Switch, it also saw a quiet release on 3DS’ eShop — back when it still existed. The game blends overhead exploration with isometric, strategic battles. Though it also injects interesting quasi-sim gameplay in which the player, a humble bar owner, must keep up their reputation and thrive.
This is done by managing (and growing) aspects of their bar by way of progression, cooking, and gathering goodies. The experience cleverly interweaves crafting/cooking with combat-based upgrades that allow players to gain an edge in battle. The learning curve is a bit steep, but the rewarding gameplay is worth the investment.
20
Radiant Historia: Perfect Chronology
A Radiant Remake Worthy Of Its Name
There is no shortage of vibrant, enjoyable JRPGs on 3DS, and this version of Radiant Historia from 2018 is no exception. This remake draws from the already robust DS game while polishing and adding details throughout the 30-hour epic.
The 30 Best Games Set in Japan, Ranked
Apart from offering fascinating gameplay, these exciting video games allow players to experience the Japanese culture and way of life.
The game shines with deep grid-based arena combat, a gripping tale involving branching plots of warring factions and alternate timelines, and stylistic visual detail.
19
Senran Kagura 2: Deep Crimson
Ignore The Noise, Senran Kagura 2 Is A Fun Time
Senran Kagura 2: Deep Crimson
- Released
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August 7, 2014
- ESRB
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M For Mature 17+ // Partial Nudity, Sexual Themes, Strong Language, Violence
- Developer(s)
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Tamsoft
OK, I know what you are thinking. Yes, Senran Kagura is rather infamous for its fanservice, and you should skip this if that is something that would annoy you. However, most of the main games have underappreciated hack-and-slash combat that tends to be simple but enjoyable. The 3DS received three entries in the series, but the only one I would really recommend is Senran Kagura 2: Deep Crimson. Not only is it the best one of the trilogy, but it is also a proper 3DS exclusive. Unlike Senran Kagura Burst, which was remade in 2018, the second entry has yet to be revisited.
The 3DS doesn’t really have all that many fantastic hack-and-slash games, and Senran Kagura 2 is comfortably among the console’s stronger efforts. It runs pretty darn well, often maintaining 60 FPS while delivering decent 2.5D visuals and movement. The fast-paced combat is somewhat reminiscent of musou games, albeit with fewer enemies on screen and a bit more diversity between the characters. The latter is one of the best parts of the series on the whole.
18
Crashmo
Simple Platforming Challenges Offered In A Charming Package
Crashmo
- Released
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October 31, 2012
- ESRB
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everyone e10+
Players who assumed that the majority of cute puzzle games on the 3DS were as easy as they come would be in for a rude awakening when they got their hands on Crashmo. The game certainly looks charming enough, but the small, well-designed platforming levels are way more challenging than anyone could’ve expected.
Perhaps this is why a lot of people don’t talk about Crashmo all that often, turning it into a 3DS hidden gem that more fans of unique platforming titles should check out. Moving blocks to set up platforms for Mallo to jump on feels great, and players who are worried about this title’s challenge can rest assured that a rewind mechanic will help them overwrite any mistake with ease.
17
Dragon Ball Z: Extreme Butoden
An Overlooked Fighting Game Featuring Everyone’s Favorite Dragon Ball Characters
Most people know Arc System Works as the developers behind the amazing Dragon Ball FighterZ, which is easily one of the best Dragon Ball games ever made. However, shades of this game’s brilliance could be seen in another Dragon Ball fighting game that was released before this title, which was a successful release in many ways despite having some issues that were ironed out in its later releases.
Dragon Ball Z: Extreme Butoden features some amazing sprite work and fun fighting gameplay that makes it a blast to play through. The story mode may be a bit too lean for most people’s tastes, but that’s a small price to pay for a game that makes the most of the 3DS hardware to let players enjoy some fun gameplay as they try to nail the best combos and show their enemies who’s boss.
16
Rhythm Heaven Megamix
An Excellent And Challenging Collection Of Rhythm-Based Minigames
Rhythm Heaven is a series that many fans of tough rhythm-based games will have a great time with. Despite what seems like a simple gameplay loop, the charming presentation of Rhythm Heaven and its vast catalog of tough games make it worth checking out for most fans.
The 8 Best Rhythm Games For The Nintendo DS
Rhythm games were immensely popular during much of the Nintendo DS’ lifecycle, and the following games stood out as the best available.
It can be surprisingly challenging, but players who give Rhythm Heaven Megamix a chance will be more than astounded by what’s on offer here. The challenge is more than welcome for fans who will get into the groove of things in no time at all!
15
Crimson Shroud
A Great Story With An Unwavering Focus On Tabletop RPGs
Crimson Shroud
- Released
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November 28, 2012
- ESRB
-
Teen // Suggestive Themes, Violence, Blood
- Developer(s)
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Level-5, NEX Entertainment Co., Ltd.
Most people know Level-5 as the developers of the Professor Layton and Ni no Kuni series. However, there are numerous titles that this talented developer has produced, and it’s a shame that the vast majority of them haven’t seen the respect and recognition they deserve. One such title is Crimson Shroud, a JRPG that relies heavily on dice rolls to decide the many outcomes in combat.
The game is designed by Yasumi Matsuno, a video game designer who played a huge role in the creation of Ivalice, a world present in Final Fantasy that has been explored time and time again. For all the big names behind this title, Crimson Shroud has become a forgotten fragment of video game history, which is a downright shame.
14
Etrian Odyssey 4: Legends Of The Titan
Great Entry In A Long-Running Dungeon-Crawling Series That Demands Players’ Attention
Pretty much every Etrian Odyssey title on the 3DS can be a solid candidate for being some of the most underrated games on the handheld. While it’s true that these games can be pretty challenging at times, players who come to grips with the gameplay systems and how they synergize with each other are bound to love the hardcore dungeon-crawler gameplay of Etrian Odyssey 4.
The simple premise of this game may turn off many people from enjoying this experience, but it’s the scintillating combat of the series that has served as the major draw. There’s a ton of depth to this system, and players who may be struggling with the game’s enemies need to do some research if they don’t want to hit a brick wall over and over again during their playthrough.
13
Project X Zone
A Crossover Tactical RPG Featuring Namco Bandai, Capcom, And Sega Characters
While Monolith Soft is known for crafting one of the most renowned RPG series on Nintendo platforms in Xenoblade, less known is this similarly fun tactical RPG from 2012. Project X Zone draws from a pool of properties from Namco Bandai, Capcom, and Sega – including Phoenix Wright and Legend of Valkyrie – and tosses them into a role-playing epic that spans 60 hours. Despite its vast scale, Project X Zone captivates the whole way with its amusing narrative, colorful characters, and fun combat which blends strategy and action.
Much like its Japanese-only predecessor from ’05, Namco x Capcom, this romp serves as a memorable celebration of some of Japan’s biggest gaming stars.
