Super Mario 3D Land plays like any normal Super Mario game, despite its gorgeous graphics and sleek character and level designs. Basically, Miyamoto took the best elements of all the Super Mario game adaptations to come up with this masterpiece which he describes as a 3 dimensional Mario reincarnation with and old school 3 dimensional side-scroller feel. IGN gave it a 9.5 out of 10, saying “3D gaming has never been fully realized before this.”

The usual power-ups are available, Super Mushroom for growth, Fire Flower for fire power, and Starman for limited invincibility, making the gameplay as addictive as it had been in the first version of the game. Other power-ups included in this version of the game are those featured from earlier Mario titles such as Super Leaf from Super Mario Bros. 3 which turns Mario into Tanooki Mario, Statue Leaf which turns Mario into a statue, and Boomerang Flower which enables Mario to throw boomerangs, among other yet exciting items.

Features:
-Amazing 3D graphics. This game utilizes the Nintendo 3DS Autostereoscopic Technology, providing in-game depth perception for absolute enjoyment.
-Utilizes the 3DS gyroscope. Play with more than just simple button mashing and have a smashing time.
-2 Playable Characters. Conquer the game as either Mario or Luigi
-Interact with Other Players. StreetPass allows you to exchange mystery boxes that contain bonus items with other players.

Overall: Regardless of whether you are a fan of the classic or just a casual gamer looking for a good time, Super Mario 3D Land is sure to satisfy your gaming itch. Although the 3D gyroscope gameplay functions are not necessary to play the game, it provides for a more interactive and entertaining experience.

Ultimately, this game is a MUST OWN GAME for the Nintendo 3DS!

Super Mario 3D Land Game Trailer:

Screenshots:

Almost a decade later, its latest reincarnation, Mario Kart 7, continues to provide fun and entertainment via Nintendo’s newest platform, the Nintendo 3DS. Mario Kart 7 retains the same classic gameplay that made it popular years ago, featuring power ups available on the race track that make the race more than just getting to the finish line first. Often imitated but never duplicated, Mario Kart 7 now introduces an optional 3D motion control system for adventurous gamers who’d want an enhanced racing experience.

It goes without saying that the graphics in Mario Kart 7 is the best of all the Mario Kart titles up to date. Everything is more colorful and crisp, despite being on a portable gaming system, which is saying a lot. If you’re an avid fan of the Mario Kart franchise or if you’re looking for a good racing title, Mario Kart 7 is the game you should check out for your Nintendo 3DS. It is, in one word, a masterpiece.

Features:
-Challenging Game Modes. Includes Grand Prix, Time Trial, Battle and Online Gaming Modes.
-Multiplayer Modes. Play with your friends using an player online and local system with an 8 player limit. 17 playable characters and 16 race tracks for a smashing good time.
-3D Controls. Mario Kart 7 utilizes 3DS gyroscopic technology, allowing for a fully immersive and unique gameplay experience.
-Kart Customization. Select the type of kart you’ll use, along with the type of tires to utilize and other special features such as parachutes or gliders that will automatically deploy when you launch off ramps.

Overall: This is definitely the best racing game for the Nintendo 3DS. If you’re a fan of racing and enjoy multiplayer then buy this game! You will not regret it!

Ultimately, this game is a MUST OWN GAME for the Nintendo 3DS!

Mario Kart 7 Game Trailer:

Screenshots:

• A complete graphical update brings a Nintendo classic into the era of portable 3D fun. The game makes effective use of the Nintendo 3DS system’s dual screens: The top screen features 3D aerial combat, while the bottom screen displays characters and dialogue.
• There are two control methods for the player to experience. The Nintendo 64 Mode offers original controls, while the new Nintendo 3DS Mode uses the motion controls of the built-in Gyro Sensor of the Nintendo 3DS system. 
• Trusted wingmen Peppy, Slippy and Falco are along for the ride – if one of them is chased or captured by an enemy, players must act to protect them in order to keep their team strong. 
• Each mission takes players through a different planet of the Lylat system as they blast enemies, collect power-ups and fight powerful bosses on their way to the final battle. 
• A new multiplayer option lets up to four players engage in fierce aerial combat via a local wireless connection (using four systems and one game card via DS Download Play). The multiplayer mode also includes new power-ups and special weapons. Players can use the Nintendo 3DS system’s inner camera to display a live video feed of their faces as they battle, bringing a new level of fun and personalization to the multiplayer experience.
  

Another cult classic that graces us with its awesomeness on Nintendo’s latest gaming platform, the 3DS, is Star Fox 64 3D, based on the immensely popular and well-loved Star Fox title. The game is basically a re-mastered version of the original Star Fox game, featuring your favorite space fighter and his fellow pilots. While the Star Fox crew is on the prowl, you can be sure that no alien invasion will ever succeed.

Star Fox 64 3D takes advantage of the highly sophisticated Nintendo 3DS graphics engine, making the character and level rendering a notch above any handheld gamer in the market right now has to offer. The overall re-mastered look is literally stunning, despite how everyone is familiar with the level layouts or the character designs, and coupled with improved gameplay made possible by the 3DS system, Star Fox 64 3D will blow you away.

What makes the new Star Fox title for 3DS so appealing, however, are the subtle features it introduced to the game as a whole. The Nintendo 3DS makes all new motion controls possible, making the experience of flying a spaceship more interactive by tilting your handheld left or right with the 3DS gyroscope, than just merely thumbing your D-Pad. Also, the new multiplayer mode allows gamers to have quick versus battles with friends. It’s worth mentioning that the VGA camera allows the gamers to see their friends’ reactions while they get their ship blown up in the game.

Features:
-Gorgeous Galactic Graphics. Star Fox 64 3D is rendered with beautiful 3DS graphics, making a classic even more resonant and available to both younger gamers and fanatics of the original title.
-Engaging Motion Controls. The Nintendo 3DS gyroscope allows for innovative ways to control your spaceship, making the act of saving the day much more fulfilling.
-Cool Multiplayer Modes. Engage in spaceship dogfights with your friends and see their reactions through the Nintendo DS VGS front camera as you blow them to smithereens!

Overall: Nothing beats a classic, except, perhaps, a re-mastered version of itself. Star Fox 64 3D preserves all the elements that made it a classic in the first place, and incorporates subtle innovations that make it a better version of itself, as if that were possible.

Star Fox 64 3D Game Trailer:

Screenshots:

Gameplay for the Sonic Generations 3DS version is different from its console counterparts because of the special levels exclusive to it which is reminiscent of the older Sega Console games. The 3D aspect of the game is seen later on in later levels after the Classic era when the camera shifts angles to get a gorgeous of view of when you topple down a tall totem pole and avoid it in the process, while you zoom up a giant tree, or when you do the special attacks later on in the game. The character skills in the 3DS versions are unlocked per level, as opposed to the console version wherein you have to purchase them in a Skill Shop through the coins you collect throughout the game.

Features:
-Sonic Generations. The game spans the three Sonic eras – Classic, Dreamcast, and Modern – providing for a nostalgic and fulfilling gaming experience.
-Gorgeous graphics. Sonic Generations utilizes the 3DS graphics engine and gives life to this fantastical and fascinating Sonic universe.
-Lush Environs. With over 90+ levels to conquer, you’re sure to be immersed in the Sonic story.

Overall: Sonic Generations is an excellent side scroller game and is an instant classic much like it’s predecessors. With over 90+ levels to conquer in this epic game, this is an excellent game both for hardcore Sonic fans and casual gamers.

Sonic Generations 3DS Game Trailer:

Screenshots:

The premise of the game is quite simple, following as a sequel to the 2009 WiiWare release. The player wields toy versions of Pokemon, unleashing them in levels to battle with other Pokemon hordes. Of course, the same type of concepts applies when battling your characters (certain Pokemon types have certain advantages in certain terrains, etc.), but Rumble presents a much more casual type of Pokemon dueling.

Features:
-Get Lost in the Story. Play with your Pokemon as toys and immerse yourself in an engaging plot line.
-Gorgeous 3DS Ggraphics. Whether it is a cinematic cut scene or actual gameplay, Pokemon Rumble Blast utilizes the 3DS graphics engine to the fullest, making for spectacular eye candy.
-Gaming for Everyone. Both hardcore Pokemaniacs and casual gamers would enjoy Pokemon Rumble blast for its simple but addictive gameplay.

Overall: If you’re a huge Pokemon fan, then you will love this game! Pokemon Rumble Blast is an excellent Nintendo 3DS title that will make instant fans of both Pokemon devotees and newbie gamers alike.

Pokemon Rumble Blast 3DS Game Trailer:

Screenshots:

When Captain America throws his mighty shield, enemies can but only cower in fear. Use the shield to deflect bullets, disable enemies, shimmy through walls and solve puzzles, among other things. Gamers will also rely on Captain America’s acrobatic sensibilities and signature fighting style to make it through levels swarming with Hydra henchmen.

What makes the game more captivating is the fact that the story departs from that told in the live action feature, giving plot lines that feature different characters. It’s also worth noting that the actors in the Marvel film reprised their roles in the game by lending their voices to the characters they portray. This all-star cast, coupled with the gorgeous graphics made possible by the 3DS system, and the gameplay made possible by the innovative 3DS motion controls, make Captain America: Super Soldier a must have for your Nintendo 3DS.

Features:
-Immersive Plot Line. Captain America: Super Soldier is loosely based on the live action film by Marvel, with Chris Evans and Haylie Atwell, among other actors, reprising their roles as Captain America and Captain Peggy Carter.
-Super Shield. A shield meant to protect can also be made to attack. Go through the gorgeously designed levels and defeat Hydra minions by utilizing Captain America’s shield to the fullest.

Overall:

Captain America: Super Solider 3DS Game Trailer:

Screenshots:

Zelda Ocarina of Time, the game considered to be the greatest game ever made has been officially announced and is set be released this June 19, 2011.

This game is currently the most anticipated game for the Nintendo 3DS and I’m not surprised why. The original game was a classic and they have remastered it for the 3DS.

Graphics are better and they have added more details to the visuals. One example is the shop has more objects inside the shop instead of the old “empty” look of the stores.

Quick Notes for the Zelda Ocarina of Time 3DS

- Nintendo did not include StreetPass capabilities to this game. Most probably to give justice to this classic game.
- The Visuals are astounding. Colors are more vivid and a whole lot of details on the environment.
- You can switch to First-Person-View and use the Gyroscope (motion sensor) to aim your slingshot instead of using the slidepad.
- The 3D effects is very sutle but based on previews, the 3D effect works perfectly. You can really see the objects popping out of the flat plane inside the 3DS.

You can now preorder Zelda Ocarina of Time 3DS from Amazon. (It’s one of the best sellers)

Here’s some goodies – all the Zelda Ocarina of Time 3DS Screenshots you can digest:

The game modes include the tradition Arcade, Versus, Training and Challenge modes. One of the biggest improvements is the addition of StreetPass specific modes where your figurines can do battle with other players even if you don’t actually play the game. If you go to place where another player also has Super Street Fighter in their 3DS, the figurines will battle with one another using the StreetPass and you can find out the results the next time you open up your game.

Another big change is the controls. Super Street Fighter IV: 3D Edition introduces two choices for controls which are “Light” and “Pro”. The light mode is basically for newbies that can already map out different set of controller movements and button presses in one single button. In effect, you can map a Hadouken from just a single button. This is really geared towards newbies that want to enjoy the game. For those that say that this is unfair especially for multiplayer modes, you’ll be happy to know that you can filter opponents in Multiplayer modes by their controls so in theory, you can just fight opponents using the Pro controls and leave out the ones that are using light.

Features:
- Online Multiplayer. Take on other players around the world or battle with your friends using built-in WiFi and show them who’s boss.
- 35 Characters. All your favorite Street Fighter characters like Ryu, Ken and Chun-Li plus a lot more comes to this great looking game.
- Collect and fight with “figurines”. Taking advantage of StreetPass, your Nintendo 3DS system automaticlly battle with other people when walking by each other.
- Amazing Camera and 3D Features. This game features an awesome Over-the-shoulder camera view which is the first time ever to make sure you experience and enjoy the 3D effects.
- Features One Button Combos. This game comes with a 1 push button combos for those newbies to the Street Fighter arena.

Overall: This is simply the BEST launch title for the Nintendo 3DS and if you’re buying the 3DS, then you should get this game.

The graphics are simply amazing, awesome characters, tried and tested formula, Over-the-Shoulder camera view for full 3D glory and Figurines using StreetPass makes this game worth getting.

Super Street Fighter IV: 3D Edition Game Trailer:

Screenshots:

The Lego Star Wars III: The Clone Wars 3D is one of the launch games for the Nintendo 3DS. The game lets you play through all the 6 Star Wars movies from A New Hope to the Clone Wars. In this adventure, you’ll meet familiar faces such as Han Solo, Princess Leia, Chewbacca, Luke Skywalker and Anakin Skywalker. There are a lot of characters to play through and lots of fast paced action to relive.

Features:
- Relive Star Wars. Play through all the 6 Star wars movies from A New Hope to the Clone Wars in this unique and extremely fun game.
- Choose Your Side. You can play as a Jedi Knight or join the Dark side as a Separatist. Both will have it’s unique abilities such as Lightsaber signature moves and special squad commands.
- Fun Mini-Games. Features quirky mini-games that you would never expect from the Star Wars universe such as snowball fights or Droid Volleyball.
- Full 3D Compatibility. Experience The Force in full 3D in this fun and action packed Star Wars experience.

Overall: The Lego franchise games have always been applauded for adding humourous and fun gameplay. Combine that with Star Wars action and signatures and you’ve got yourself a great game. And if you’ve ever played any Star Wars game, you know that Lucas Arts takes pride in developing amazing games.

Quite honestly, this is one of the best Launch games for the Nintendo 3DS. If you want an action adventure game that will entertain you for hours with great replayability, then definitely get this game!

Watch the Official LEGO Star Wars Trailer:

Lego Star Wars 3DS Pictures and Screenshots

If you’re still asking yourself if you should buy a Nintendo 3DS then let me be the first to tell you that the system itself is very much worth the $249.99 price that Nintendo is selling the gaming system for. After playing the 3DS for more than a week (at this time of writing), I can honestly say that Nintendo has set yet a new standard for handheld devices. Graphics wise, the system looks absolutely amazing and the games looks so much better than the DSi. The ease of controls is simply amazing especially with the addition of the Slidepad. Most of all, the 3D effects look marvelous.

With that out of the way, the only reason people would think twice if they should buy a Nintendo 3DS is if there’s no game that would interest them. What good is a hardware if there’s no good software games to use. So really, it all boils down to the games. Thankfully, the Nintendo 3DS has a lot of great third party support for games. Going through the complete list of 3DS games, we’ve handpicked the top 10 3DS games that we are all looking forward to.

If you’re looking for the games that already available, check our best 3DS launch games list.

Top 10 Best Games for the Nintendo 3DS (Upcoming)

1. Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D

Considered to be the best game of all time, this remake of The Legend of Zelda Ocarina of Time is on the top of list for best 3DS game that we’re looking forward to get our hands on.

2. Mario Kart 3D

Ever since the first Mario Kart game came out, this has been considered to be one of the best racing series in all Nintendo gaming systems so a Mario Kart game for the Nintendo 3DS with better graphics (compared to the DSi) and eye-popping 3D effects can only mean great news for us.

3. Kid Icarus Uprising 3D

Since this game was announced last year for the Nintendo 3DS, a lot of great expectations has been set for this game and judging by the trailer and some gameplay demos, this game has a lot to offer and has one of the best implementation of the 3D effects in it’s gameplay.

4. Paper Mario 3D

This RPG Mario game brings us our favorite 2D plumber into a 3D world. Although, not a lot of details has been revealed for this game, this is certainly one of the highly anticipated games for the Nintendo 3DS.

5. Super Mario Bros 3D

There has been no official word for this game yet but this is already in the works. We’re not sure what the final title for this game will be but knowing Nintendo, it’s probably going to be Super Mario Bros 3D.

6. Resident Evil Revelations

A lot of anticipation has been surrounding this game since it was first announced last E3. This survival-horror game brings us back Resident Evil stars Jill Valentine and Chris Redfield. Judging from the featured trailer, it looks like there will be some twists and backstabbing throughout the game. Definitely in our must-buy list.

7. Kingdom Hearts: Dream Drop Distance 3D

Another action adventure game that we can’t get enough of, Sora and friends from both Disney and the Final Fantasy world will come to life in Kingdom Hearts: Dream Drop Distance. No details on this game yet but we’re looking forward to it.

8. StarFox 64 3D

A lot of the fans of the series has been requesting another StarFox 64 game from Nintendo for many years and alas, Nintendo has heed their call. StarFox 64 3D is coming to the Nintendo 3DS this year. Although, it has not been finalized whether this would be a remake or a new game, we’re certainly looking forward to this game.

9. Metal Gear Solid Naked Snake 3D

Considered to be the best stealth espionage action game today, Metal Gear Solid Naked Snake 3D is a must buy for those fans of the series. Knowing Hideo Kojima, we’re keeping a close eye on this game.

10. Animal Crossing 3D

There hasn’t been much detail about this game yet and the trailer did not really include much gameplay but one thing is for sure: This is certainly the best looking Animal Crossing out of all the series, even beating the home console version from the Wii. We’re keeping an eye out for this game and looking forward to get our hands on it.

Overall

So there you have it guys, these are the Top 10 Best Nintendo 3DS Games that we’re looking forward to this year. We hope you guys enjoyed the list. If you think we made a bad decision, let us know in the comments.

Do you have another Nintendo 3DS game in mind that you think deserves to be on this list?