The Nintendo 3DS is brimming with games that are not just great but also generational. Due to that fact, there are games that were overlooked simply because there is not much hype or marketing machine behind them. Here are seven of the best underrated games on the portable video game console.
Best underrated nintendo 3DS games
7. Warioware Gold
WarioWare Gold offers a delightful return to the quirky world of Wario, blending charming storytelling with a diverse cast of characters. Despite its simplicity, the story mode captivates with its humor and fully voiced dialogue, adding depth to the game's vibrant personality. The characters exude charm, making even the simplest narrative elements enjoyable and engaging. It is somewhat weird that this game has not received much attention given that it is a Nintendo first party game. Whatever the reason is, it is time for anyone who is reading this to correct it.
WarioWare Gold has redrawn graphics that breathe new life into familiar microgames. Hand-drawn art and vibrant colors enhance the aesthetic, while pixel art adds variety and flair to the gameplay experience. While the shift to a new art style may require some adjustment for longtime fans, the fresh visuals contribute to the game's immersive atmosphere.
The audio design is also excellent in this game, capturing the series' signature quirkiness with lively sound effects and catchy music. Fully voiced characters also add spice and charm. WarioWare Gold delivers a classic microgame experience, challenging players with a variety of short, fast-paced games that utilize different controls. WarioWare Gold offers a delightful and entertaining experience that is well worth exploring, even if it was belatedly in the 3DS lifecycle.
6. Fluidity: Spin Cycle (Hydroventure SpinCycle)
Fluidity: Spin Cycle defies the typical pitfalls of hardware-specific gameplay, delivering a polished and innovative experience. As a sequel to the Wii original, it blends platforming elements with puzzle mechanics, tasking players with rescuing the Rainbow Spirit from the evil Goop across various levels. What sets it apart is its unique control scheme, utilizing the system's gyroscope for intuitive movement as players navigate the water spirit through gravity-based puzzles. The gyroscopic controls prove surprisingly intuitive.
In addition to gyroscopic movement, Fluidity: Spin Cycle cleverly incorporates button and touch-screen controls for actions like jumping and interacting with the environment. By deliberately opting out of 3D functionality, the game sidesteps potential issues with visual clarity during movement. The puzzles evolve in complexity, introducing new abilities and challenges, encouraging replayability and exploration while maintaining accessibility for players of all skill levels.
Fluidity: Spin Cycle excels not only in its integration of hardware features but also in its game design. With its engaging gameplay, hidden collectibles, and bonus levels, it transcends the typical constraints of an eShop exclusive, delivering a captivating experience akin to a full-fledged retail release. Whether you're a fan of physics-based puzzles or simply seeking a unique and polished gaming experience, Fluidity: Spin Cycle is a must-have addition to your 3DS library, showcasing the potential for innovative gameplay on handheld platforms.
5. 7th Dragon III Code: VFD
7th Dragon III Code: VFD is one of those truly hidden gems. This game is characterized by its exceptional design and captivating soundtrack. Set in a futuristic Japanese-style world, the game offers an array of character customization options and diverse classes, albeit with some initially locked features. Embracing inclusivity, it ensures a gender-friendly gaming experience, yet another welcome aspect of RPGs.
The true allure lies in its gameplay. Departing from traditional turn-based mechanics, 7th Dragon III Code: VFD introduces a dynamic system where battles directly impact skill acquisition and character progression, fostering addictive and purposeful gameplay.
Despite its modest visuals and occasional frame rate issues, the game excels in its innovative battle mechanics and hybrid approach to encounters. From hacking enemies to unleashing devastating attacks, each confrontation offers a fresh and engaging experience. With its captivating music and addictive gameplay loop, 7th Dragon III Code: VFD stands as a testament to the allure of hidden treasures in the gaming landscape, offering a rewarding experience for RPG enthusiasts willing to explore its depths.
4. Rhythm Thief and the Emperor's Treasure
Rhythm Thief and the Emperor’s Treasure marks SEGA’s foray into the 3DS with a fresh series, blending rhythm gameplay with point-and-click elements. Set in Paris, the game follows protagonist Raphael on his quest to uncover the truth about his father's disappearance while navigating encounters with Inspector Vergier and a supposed reincarnation of Napoleon. The engaging characters and anime cutscenes contribute to an entertaining narrative experience is what makes this adventure-slash-rhythm game to be iconic.
Rhythm Thief employs colorful cel-shaded graphics and meticulously crafted Parisian locales. The anime cutscenes, particularly impressive in 3D, elevate the storytelling with their sharp quality and immersive presentation. Complementing the vibrant visuals is the stellar soundtrack, featuring instrumental compositions spanning various genres, with standout performances on the violin.
Gameplay is divided between point-and-click segments and rhythm minigames, reminiscent of the Professor Layton series. While the point-and-click segments offer simple puzzles and exploration, the rhythm minigames steal the spotlight with their diverse scenarios and engaging mechanics. From rooftop hopping to violin playing, these minigames pay homage to SEGA's rhythm game legacy while introducing fresh challenges.
Rhythm Thief boasts a distinct blend of wacky charm, stylish presentation, and enjoyable gameplay. The disparate mixture of genres may deter fans of rhythm games and puzzlers alike, but give this game a chance and you will know how underrated this game is.
3. Kokuga
Hiroshi Iuchi, known for bullet-hell shooters like Radiant Silvergun and Ikaruga, delivers Kokuga, a shooter with a slower pace but of equal adrenaline-pumping action. Set in a war-torn future between nations A and B, the game's narrative takes a back seat to its explosive tank battles. Kokuga excels in its intense gameplay and flexible level progression.
With access to 12 stages from the start, players navigate a grid-like map, choosing adjacent levels and three final stages at their discretion. Unique power-ups and level structures add depth to gameplay, offering tactical choices and strategic rewards. Each level culminates in a boss fight, providing varied challenges and satisfying encounters.
Kokuga's simple yet engaging mechanics, reminiscent of classic Sega Saturn shooters, offer accessible gameplay with enough challenge to satisfy genre fans. Bullet-hell shooters do not have a substantial audience nowadays hence this game was not popular upon its release but it deserves all of the awards if you were to ask us.
2. Yumi's Odd Odyssey
Originally confined to its homeland, the series of which this game belongs gained a dedicated following despite its obscurity. The primary objective of this game is to navigate through dream levels, with multiple exits leading to different paths.
The gameplay centers around the protagonist, Yumi, and her unique ability to use a fishing line and lure for traversal. This mechanic, reminiscent of Bionic Commando, offers a versatile approach to platforming, requiring precision and mastery. Despite its whimsical appearance, Yumi’s Odd Odyssey presents a significant challenge, with collectibles, intricate level design, and tough enemies demanding skill and strategy. The game's difficulty may deter some players, but mastering its controls unveils a rewarding experience.
This game’s arrival in the West marks a rare occurrence in gaming history, offering a fresh take on side-scrolling platformers with its blend of originality and difficulty. Agatsuma Entertainment's efforts to bring the game to Europe, along with Natsume's publishing in North America, commendably bridge the gap between Eastern and Western audiences, ensuring that players outside Japan can finally experience this hidden gem.
1. Ever Oasis
Ever Oasis offers a unique blend of RPG adventure and town management, where actions in both realms are equally significant. As the Child of the Great Tree, players embark on a quest to create a thriving oasis in the desert, while also battling the encroaching forces of Chaos. Building up the town, attracting villagers, and upgrading shops are just as fulfilling as exploring dungeons and tackling enemies. The transformation of the oasis from barren dunes to a lush paradise is visually stunning and rewarding to witness.
In addition to managing the oasis, players are to venture into dungeons to confront the forces of Chaos and gather resources for the town. Residents join in battles, gaining levels and abilities alongside the player. The combat feels reminiscent of Zelda games, with diverse enemies and clever puzzles to solve. The dungeons, despite being set in the desert, offer a variety of environments and challenges.
The game's mechanics, such as party management and side quests, are well-implemented. Ever Oasis succeeds in creating a captivating world where every task feels meaningful, blending adventure and town-building seamlessly. It is a shame that it did not blow up like it should have when it was released and no sequel or remake are on the horizon.