Choosing the best Nintendo 3DS games for kids could be difficult if only because of the number of choices you have to pick from.
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D
One of the most popular Zelda titles, the Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D version is the remastered and improved version of a long time fan favorite. Glitches from the original titles have been fixed, controls simplified, and overall title play has been improved. Aside from the 3D remake of the graphics, this title still stays true to the original, so old fans will be happy to know that it retains its long time appeal. As such, it is one of the best Nintendo 3DS games for kids, and even for older fans who want to take a shot at the Ocarina of Time in 3D.
Super Mario 3D Land
For many, many years, the Super Mario Brothers have had a strong appeal across generations of players. Now that the company has come out with their new, 3D gaming platform, it makes perfect sense that the next step for Super Mario was to come right out of the screen. Super Mario 3D Land takes the classic story that everyone loves and transforms it to a whole new dimension, and both kids and adults are likely to enjoy the thrill of seeing their favorite characters in 3D. If you already have the other Super Mario titles, then this is the logical next purchase.
Mario Kart 7
If you or your child has ever enjoyed playing Mario Kart or any other of the franchise’s racing titles, then Mario Kart 7 is sure to be a winner. As one the new Nintendo 3Ds games, this takes all your favorite Mario Kart characters and reveals them on a whole new level. Watch them and play the title in 3D, or even use the console’s slighter to turn down the 3D effect so you can play it like the older versions. However you want to enjoy it, it’s family fun for everybody, and one of those titles you don’t have to worry about whether or not it is age appropriate for your kid.
Star Fox 64 3D
For those who liked the original version of Star Fox 64, the new 3D version is a must have. As one of the best Nintendo 3DS games for kids, it brings the favorite characters into your hands in 3D, and the title itself offers two modes of play. The first allows you to play it like the original title in 2D, a nice option if you can’t find the console you needed for it. The second mode of play allows to battle in the air with a gyro sensor, offering a new motion capability to go along with the 3D viewing. Whatever your preference, it has all the good things from the original title and all the great things to go with the new gaming platform.
Ridge Racer 3DS
When you’re looking for a racing title, the Ridge Racer 3DS title is an awesome choice. It features favorite settings from the former title, but it also comes with new locals to race through, the feature to have a picture as a gaming tag while playing with up to four of your friends, as well as improved gaming functions, such as the new drift feature that lets you glide through tough areas without losing speed. Its 3D graphics provides a level or realism, and for someone who wants a racing title on the go, this one certainly provides the opportunity for enjoyment.
Pilotwings Resort
If you want a title that accompanies the Mii program, Pilotwings Resort is a good one to get started with. It uses your own personal Mii, and you can soar over and explore an island via different methods of travel, each with their own functions to let you experience the full title play. There is both a freeform and mission mode, so you can enjoy the freedom or challenges this title has to offer. Plus, it is in 3D, giving you the chance to explore Nintendo 3DS games as you’ve never played titles before. Plus, you can take in-game snapshots to share with your family and friends.
Paper Mario 3DS
This title’s spin on the classic Mario Brothers titles is something well worth playing for any fan. Similar to the Paper Mario titles, this one puts it in 3D, giving you the opportunity to play your favorite franchise in a new and innovative way. It’s great for all ages, and you don’t have to worry about age appropriateness, and even older kids (and adults) can enjoy the thrill of seeing their favorite characters in a unique and fun way. It’s the must have for Super Mario fans, and will provide endless entertainment while traveling on long car trips, or even after homework’s done.
Rayman 3D
As an adaptation of Rayman 2, this version of the title takes a classic fan favorite and improves upon it. All the original moves and abilities still remain, and there are a number of different worlds to explore in this universe that gives you plenty of room to enjoy the title. The quarrels between Rayman and his enemies are still present in this title, so if you’re a fan of the original, this one can provide a new take on the title you used to enjoy. Besides that, it has the feature of being 3D, which can be controlled using the console’s slider, giving you the maximum flexibility possible.
Luigi’s Mansion 2
Out of the best Nintendo 3Ds games for kids, this one gives you a spooky take on the classic Mario Brothers titles. Luigi’s Mansion 2 lets you play as your favorite character, Luigi, and you can enjoy hours of fun solving mysteries while sitting back and marveling over the 3D aspect of this title. Like other Super Mario titles, this one is a nice title for fans to pick up. Appealing to all ages as a family title, Luigi’s Mansion 2 lets you continue the title you used to love, in a way you haven’t quite seen before.
Animal Crossing 3DS
If you or your child loved the original Animal Crossing title, they’ll love being able to play it in 3D. This new take on the original version updates you to the latest in gaming, and you can see the world as you’ve never seen it before. Continue building a community as you loved doing so before, and you can also enjoy better detail and possibly encountering new creatures as you set up your home to the way you like. If your child is a fan of these titles, or likes animals, then Animal Crossing 3DS may well be worth a shot.
Super Street Fighter IV
A title suited for older players, the 3D version of Super Street Fighter IV takes the franchise to a whole new level. Play in battles much like the previous titles, only now you can see the most popular characters in 3D. As one of the best Nintendo 3Ds games for kids, it gives you a chance to play multiplayer. Or you can fight Ryu against other players who don’t have the cartridge for this title, expanding the possibilities. There’s also an over-the-shoulder camera option now available with this version of the title, giving you more options to how you view the action during title play.
Super Monkey Ball 3D
Super Monkey Ball 3D gives you the option of three types of title play, which means you have plenty of room to explore. Title play ranges from puzzles, which comes with the option of using the platform’s motion sensor, car battles for racing, and full on fighting in monkey brawl mode. Whatever your preferred style of play is, you can enjoy what Super Monkey Ball has to offer, now in 3D as one of the coolest 3DS games. It’s fun for all ages, and one of those titles that even multiple friends can get in on the action, offering more fun social time for everyone to enjoy.
LEGO Star Wars 3
Star Wars fans and those who just like any of the LEGOs titles will enjoy Lego Star Wars 3. It gives you all the playability the other LEGO titles have, one of the best Nintendo 3DS games for kids, while being an awesome chance to play the cartoon Clone Wars episodes. Play out levels and collect new characters, each with benefits that make them handy to have. This version also has fun mini titles you might not expect, along with new weapons and abilities. For any gamer who enjoys LEGOs or Star Wars, or both, LEGO Star Wars 3 in 3D gives a nice, subtle illusion that adds to the fun atmosphere.
Dead or Alive Dimensions
With the style of the original Dead or Alive titles, Dead or Alive Dimensions gives you a chance to see this world in stunning 3D. You can go through the entire story in the chronicles mode, or fans can help new players learn the title in a partnership mode. It’s a lot of action, and takes all the fun of the original title and puts it into Nintendo 3Ds games. Since you can play multiplayer through local play, the fun doesn’t stop once the story is over, so sit back and get started practicing, the new Dead or Alive Dimensions title has a lot waiting in store for you.
Nintendogs + Cats
If you’ve got a child that wants a dog or cat, but you don’t have the room or time to take care of it, Nintendogs + Cats is a good option to get them started. Care for different dogs, and once they’ve shown they’re responsible dog owners, getting cats is unlocked. Consider playing with the Streetpass option to get more items and playable breeds, and enjoy having your own furry little creature that you don’t have to clean up after in real life. Also, the 3D version works nicely with the titles like Frisbee, so you can enjoy the new features of the title as well as the old.
Combat of Giants Dinosaurs
With this 3D title, you can play and customize your own dinosaur. Choose from several breeds in order to roam through the Jurassic period, fighting other dinosaur and preparing to fight the toughest dinosaur of all. With beautiful graphics, anyone who wants a change of pace from usual fighting titles, or simply likes dinosaurs, will enjoy this opportunity to play it. Also, enjoy fighting other dinosaurs using the Streetpass function, and you’ll have endless hours of fun with a title that has multiple opportunities for new combat. It’s a title that any thrill seeker can enjoy.
LEGO Pirates of the Caribbean
If you’re a fan of Pirates of the Caribbean and looking for some silly fun, the 3DS version gives you a chance to play on the go. Like other LEGOs titles, it has the classic, fun puzzles and bonus material that brings extra fun and characters to the title. Play as a single character running through the title, and collect stud pieces to buy special items. All your favorite characters are present in this title, which has the four different movies in it, and the LEGO styled cut scenes show the main plot points in a humorous way anyone who’s seen the movies can enjoy.
Rabbids Travel in Time
This version of the Rabbids title franchise was made exclusively as Nintendo 3DS games, and is a fun way of playing wacky puzzles and dressing up your rabbids in hilarious costumes and outfits. With Rabbids Travel in Time, you can have great fun seeing the rabbids run throughout historic moments, and you can even mess up time and see how famous moments change when these little villains get involved. While the 3D effect is minimal, it is a nice transition from the regular DS titles. If you’re a fan of the Rayman series, this is a nice spinoff title to provide additional entertainment, especially if you expect a lot of downtime when traveling.
Pokémon Rumble Blast 3DS
With Pokémon Rumble Blast, you can play and collect toy Pokémon, select them for different battles, then fight big boss bad guys. Enjoy two different battle modes to play through, giving you more options for longer play and title time. With over 600 Pokémon, you’re sure to have fun finding the different characters to play with. As a Pokémon title made exclusively for the 3DS, you won’t find it in any other platform. A die-hard Pokémon fan will want to pick this up for extra fun. If you get a wireless connection going with another player, you can add even more fun to your title play.
Bust-a-Move Universe
This title is based on the original Bust A Move titles, with similar puzzles and features that make it good for younger players. As one the of the best Nintendo 3DS games for kids, it offers everything players loved from the previous titles in a wonderful version of 3D, bringing it to “the next dimension.” If you want something simple to help you pass the hours, this title gives you something to do as a nice distraction for your amusement, making it especially good if you have downtime between homework and dinner. That being said, this is a good option for those who like title puzzles.
There are plenty of titles to choose from, and these are some of the top. Whether you’re shopping for a kid or a kid at heart, this is a good list to start from.
