Nintendo 3DS Gift Guide 2014

The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds ($39.99)

Recommended Videos

3DS-14

Launching just over a year ago, the latest Legend of Zelda game brought us back to the world of the SNES classic A Link to the Past. Moving away from the linear structure of the series of recent, The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds switches things up in many ways, especially with the method of renting items. The wall moving mechanic is quite useful and seems perfectly suited for a handheld iteration in the Zelda series. After the last few handheld entries that disappointed many with Phantom Hourglass and Spirit Tracks, A Link Between Worlds was universally loved and still stands as possibly the best game on the system.

Pokemon X and Y ($39.99)

3DS-15

While we saw the arrival of two brand new Pokémon games just a month ago, those who missed out on last year’s Pokémon X and Y need to pick up at least one of the two. Journeying to the brand new Kalos region, everything feels new here with the first implementation of Mega Evolution at its release. Unlike Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, this game will be a completely exclusive experience for gamers that is perfect for on the go play once again.

Super Mario 3D Land ($29.99)

3DS-16

Outside of Super Mario 64 DS, the 3D platformer side of Mario had mostly stayed on consoles until we got Super Mario 3D Land a few years ago. Moving away from the New Super Mario Bros. series, Super Mario 3D land had fantastic level design that was improved on even more with Super Mario 3D World on Wii U. However, for a handheld experience, you absolutely cannot go wrong with Super Mario 3D Land, which features a relatively lengthy campaign overall.

Mario Kart 7 ($29.99)

3DS-17

Similar to Super Mario 3D Land that was surpassed by its console sequel, Mario Kart 7 is in the same boat with Mario Kart 8 releasing earlier this year. However, Mario Kart 7 is still one of the must own games for the 3DS. After the disappointment for some in Mario Kart Wii, Mario Kart 7 won many gamers back with excellent on the go racing action. One of the original DS’ best games was its entry in the Mario Kart series and that is also the same case with the 3DS.

Fire Emblem Awakening ($39.99)

3DS-18

The original Nintendo DS was chocked full of quality RPGs to choose from, which are all playable on the 3DS as well. While there hasn’t been the number of games in that genre on the 3DS thus far, Fire Emblem Awakening certainly stands out on top. Bringing the long running Japanese franchise to handhelds again, Fire Emblem Awakening provided another incredible gamer for fans of the franchise while also serving as a great jumping on point for newcomers as well.

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D ($39.99)

3DS-19

What really needs to be said about The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time? Often considered the greatest game of all time by many, Ocarina of Time 3D lets gamers on the go experience this game with a shiny coat of paint, while including not only the regular game, but also the Master Quest that was only available on special pre-order discs prior. Even at full price still, this is one game almost everyone should have in their gaming library.

Kid Icarus: Uprising ($39.99)

3DS-20

As good as this game is, I almost left this one off the list due to the difficulty of finding it. Unlike the rare Fire Emblem Awakening that can be bought through the eShop, Kid Icarus: Uprising is only available in retail. You may be able to find it used at somewhere like GameStop, but the game is still pretty pricy otherwise. The fast moving gameplay can take a little bit of getting used to, but before long the controls will feel incredibly natural and really show why Pit and Palutena have become so popular in recent years.

The next and final page will cover a few of the digital only games available on the 3DS eShop.


Attack of the Fanboy is supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Learn more
related content
Read Article Unveiling the Ultimate Weekly Gaming Newsletter: Subscribe Now to Gamers Digest!
Read Article Attack of the Fanboy’s Game of the Year 2023
Read Article 10 Strongest Female Characters in Jujutsu Kaisen
Read Article Mortal Kombat 1 Preview
Mortal Kombat 1 Beta
Read Article Is Overwatch 2: Invasion Worth It? | Overwatch 2 PvE Review
Related Content
Read Article Unveiling the Ultimate Weekly Gaming Newsletter: Subscribe Now to Gamers Digest!
Read Article Attack of the Fanboy’s Game of the Year 2023
Read Article 10 Strongest Female Characters in Jujutsu Kaisen
Read Article Mortal Kombat 1 Preview
Mortal Kombat 1 Beta
Read Article Is Overwatch 2: Invasion Worth It? | Overwatch 2 PvE Review
Author