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The 3DS library is one of the deepest of any handheld console. It also happens to emulate beautifully on the right hardware. Dual screens map naturally onto a single big display, and the 3D effect was always optional, so nothing is lost playing in 2D. The catch is that the 3DS is more demanding than older systems. You want a capable Android handheld or a PC handheld for a smooth ride.
These 20 games are picked for how well they hold up and how nicely they translate to a single screen. We frame all of this around games you already own and want to preserve.
Affiliate disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and Anbernic affiliate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
What You Need to Run 3DS Games
3DS emulation is mid-tier in difficulty. It is heavier than PSP but lighter than GameCube. A Snapdragon-powered Android handheld or any PC handheld handles most of the library well. Weaker Linux handhelds are not a good fit here. Our Azahar 3DS setup guide walks through getting it running, and our best handhelds for 3DS emulation guide covers the hardware.
RPGs and Strategy
Fire Emblem: Awakening — The game that saved the series. Tight tactical combat, a cast you actually care about, and a casual mode that makes it welcoming for newcomers. Battles give you clean stopping points, so it fits short and long sessions alike.
Fire Emblem: Fates — Three story paths with different difficulty and tone. The map design is some of the sharpest in the series. Great if Awakening left you wanting more.
Bravely Default — A throwback turn-based RPG with a clever Brave and Default battle system that lets you bank or borrow turns. The job system runs deep. One of the best original RPGs on the platform.
Shin Megami Tensei IV — A dark, demanding dungeon crawler with demon fusion and brutal early difficulty. Once it clicks, it is hard to put down. Best for players who like a challenge.
Etrian Odyssey IV — A first-person dungeon crawler where you draw your own map. The single screen layout works fine, and the slow, careful exploration suits handheld play perfectly.
Action and Adventure
The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds — A near-perfect top-down Zelda. The wall-merging mechanic is brilliant, the pacing is tight, and it looks crisp upscaled. If you play one 3DS game, make it this one.
The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D — The remaster cleans up one of the most atmospheric games Nintendo ever made. The three-day clock creates a tense, memorable loop.
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D — The definitive way to replay a classic. Updated visuals, smoother controls, and an optional Master Quest mode for veterans.
Metroid: Samus Returns — A full reimagining of Metroid II with melee counters and a great sense of dread. Tight controls and a logical map make it ideal for focused sessions.
Kid Icarus: Uprising — Wild, fast, and funny, with frantic on-rails and ground combat. The controls were divisive on real hardware, but mapped to a comfortable gamepad they feel much better.
Platformers and Family
Super Mario 3D Land — The game that proved 3D platforming works on a portable. Short, inventive levels that are perfect for a few minutes at a time.
Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D — A gorgeous, tough platformer with a more forgiving New Mode for newcomers. The level design rarely repeats an idea.
Kirby: Planet Robobot — One of Kirby's best. The mech sections add variety, and the copy abilities keep things fresh. Cheerful and easy to pick up.
Yoshi's New Island — A relaxed, hand-drawn platformer. Lower stakes than most on this list, which makes it a nice palette cleanser.
Captain Toad-style puzzle play via Super Mario 3D World hooks — If you enjoy bite-size spatial puzzles, the 3D Land follow-ups scratch that itch on the go.
Pokemon and Pick-Up-and-Play
Pokemon X and Y — The first fully 3D mainline Pokemon games. Approachable, colorful, and endlessly replayable. A natural fit for short bursts.
Pokemon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon — A more polished take on the Alola region with a deeper post-game. A great entry point for the series.
Animal Crossing: New Leaf — The portable Animal Crossing many fans still prefer. Daily chores, decorating, and a slow rhythm make it perfect for a few relaxed minutes each day.
Rhythm Heaven Megamix — Quirky, addictive rhythm minigames. Each one runs a couple of minutes, so it is ideal for a quick play between tasks.
Mario Kart 7 — Solid kart racing with gliders and underwater sections. Individual races are short, which makes it great for handheld pick-up-and-play.
Recommended Handhelds for 3DS Emulation
3DS needs real power. These picks all handle the library well.
The
is the value champion for 3DS, with a Snapdragon chip and a big screen that suits dual-screen layouts. Step up to the if you want headroom for the heaviest games. On the PC side, the runs the entire library with ease.Related Guides
- Azahar 3DS Setup Guide — how to get 3DS games running
- Best Handhelds for 3DS Emulation — the hardware picks
- 25 Best DS Games for Handheld Emulation — the companion list for the older portable
- DS and 3DS Emulation Guide — both portables covered
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