Great 3DS Ports We Still Want on Modern Consoles

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The Nintendo 3DS was truly an exceptional gadget, with many believing it was the final traditional handheld console from Nintendo. As Nintendo shifts its focus towards hybrid consoles such as the upcoming Switch 2, we can expect no more exclusive games designed for handheld devices. This transition makes sense, but it does leave a bit of nostalgia since playing indie games on this device was quite enjoyable.

Even though it’s a portable device, the Nintendo 3DS boasted numerous fantastic ports that haven’t made their way onto the Nintendo Switch yet. In fact, some of these ports represent the best versions of these games, making fans disappointed when its digital storefront shut down. Some of these games have been ported to other platforms, but many are still languishing in the realm of outdated consoles.

On this handheld device, there are merely a selection of outstanding 3DS ports still lingering. Given the escalating second-hand prices for this system, it would be advantageous to see some of these ports transferred to contemporary gaming platforms more expeditiously.

Dragon Quest 8: Journey of the Cursed King

Visitors to this site are already familiar with our fondness for Dragon Quest 8 on PS2. The version for the 3DS is just as captivating, and some have even suggested it surpasses the original due to several quality-of-life enhancements. Despite ongoing debates among fans about which port is superior, the 3DS adaptation remains an excellent avenue for immersing oneself in this timeless RPG experience.

This new version offers unique Quality of Life enhancements, such as wandering enemies on the world map and in dungeons instead of random battles. This means smoother gameplay without interruptions. Plus, battles can be sped up, making the tedious process of grinding less time-consuming. In this version, enemies award more EXP and money, reducing the need for extensive grinding. Additionally, players can preview available skills when distributing attributes, a feature that was missing in the PS2 version.

A revamped version of Dragon Quest 8, incorporating aspects from both its PS2 and 3DS editions, would be perfect. It’s high time this classic game was released from the shadows of past-generation consoles.

Luigi’s Mansion

It’s puzzling why only Luigi’s Mansion 2 received a Switch port without including the first game as well. While the second game is good, many believe the original Luigi’s Mansion is superior and should have been adapted for the Switch instead. Interestingly, the 3DS version boasts some enhanced features that even surpass the GameCube original.

In a more conversational style, here’s how you could phrase that:

“Luigi’s Mansion on the 3DS manages to preserve the slightly eerie ambiance that seemed to be lacking in the second and third installments. It was this version that introduced the co-op mode with Gooigi, even though his first official appearance was actually in Luigi’s Mansion 3. Additionally, it offered players an opportunity to replay boss fights by visiting the gallery within the lab.

Given the upgrades made to this version, it’s surprising that Nintendo hasn’t released this game again for the Switch. If they did, it would have finished off the series on their first-ever hybrid console, which leaves us a bit perplexed. Perhaps it will appear on the Switch 2 at some point, but only time will tell.

Star Fox 64 3D

On the Nintendo Switch, Star Fox was scarcely present. Following the underperformance of Star Fox Zero on the Wii U, fans anticipated a new game for the Switch to revive Fox McCloud’s prominence. Regrettably, this didn’t occur. However, we believe that Nintendo could have made more effort by transferring this port from 3DS to the Switch instead.

Players discovering Star Fox 64 3D will be amazed at how much sharper and colorful it looks compared to the initial release. The upgraded textures on spaceships and brighter environments make this version a standout as the ultimate edition of Nintendo’s space combat game. Additionally, this remake boasts enhanced audio compared to its N64 counterpart and offers increased replay value through an unlockable Score Attack mode.

Fans of Star Fox may find the current retelling of Fox McCloud’s tale repetitive, but if this reimagining were available on Nintendo Switch, it could be an exceptional adaptation. Adding in elements from the more advanced GameCube games would make it even more enticing and potentially a highly attractive addition to the series.

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and Majora’s Mask 3D

These two Zelda remakes were outstanding on the Nintendo 3DS, and experiencing them sequentially offers a delightful sequence. Ocarina of Time established the blueprint for classic 3D Zelda games, making the world of Hyrule seem more expansive than ever. Conversely, Majora’s Mask rearranges the Zelda formula, compelling players to complete tasks promptly before everything resets.

Just as Star Fox 3D, the remastered versions of Ocarina of Time and Majora’s Mask, originally from the N64, gain significant enhancement with their upgraded graphics. Characters like Link and Zelda are noticeably improved in these updated editions of the classic games. Additionally, both titles offer increased replay value through Master Modes that can be unlocked, as well as a Boss Rush mode for more challenging gameplay.

Simply put, having these 3DS ports on Switch or Switch 2 would be magical.

Some outstanding 3DS games, which have been trapped in last-gen limbo, are eagerly awaited for their re-release in the coming times. Since Bravely Default is being ported to Switch 2, it’s hoped that other similar titles will follow suit.

Stay tuned to Gfinity: the best place for retro game coverage.

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2025-05-18 13:42