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3DS

Nintendo World Report's Top 20 3DS Games (So Far)

#15 - #11

by the NWR Staff - February 24, 2015, 9:32 am EST

Mix together RPGs, rhythm, platforming, and racing to get this batch of games.

15. Mutant Mudds
Publisher: Renegade Kid
Developer: Renegade Kid
Release Date:: January 26, 2012
Review Score:: 9/10

Back in the beginning of 2012, we called Mutant Mudds one of the best eShop games. Three years later, and that's still true. This deliberate platformer that makes wonderful use of stereoscopic 3D was and is an indie showpiece for the system. With countless updates and improvements over the years, Mutant Mudds is fun, exciting platformer that also happens to have some great music (seemingly a requisite for good games).

14. Pokémon Omega Ruby/Alpha Sapphire
Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: Game Freak
Release Date:: November 21, 2014
Review Score:: 9/10

We all knew this was coming eventually, but even still, these remakes of Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire were special. Taking the engine from Pokémon X/Y, Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire streamline the Poké-experience in wonderful ways (sneaking anyone?) while still retaining the compelling story and unique aspects of the third generation of the venerable franchise. And you know? Some of those Mega Pokémon looked super cool even if it was a pain to collect all of them.

13. Mario Kart 7
Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: Nintendo
Release Date:: December 4, 2011
Review Score:: 8.5/10

A necessary release in the 3DS' first holiday season, Mario Kart 7 added a fine-tuned online experience to the young handheld's library. With stunning stereoscopic 3D and a variety of tweaks to the formula, the 3DS iteration in the franchise was just as fun as other entries in the series. The new air and sea mechanics added a new dimension to races, as did some of the new races that didn't feature laps and were just a point-to-point race.

12. Bravely Default
Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: Silicon Studio
Release Date:: February 7, 2014
Review Score:: 9.5/10, 9/10

While Square Enix didn't see fit to release this modern classic RPG in the west, it's a good thing Nintendo did. If it weren't for them, we would never have been able to experience this delightful throwback to the RPGs of yore that added new mechanics to streamline battling and exploration. Bravely Default is just a perfect fit for the 3DS, especially with its compelling StreetPass use. The story might have gotten a little long-winded in spots, but it's rare in this day and age when a new RPG deserves to be compared to SNES-era Square Enix classics.

11. Theatrhythm Final Fantasy: Curtain Call
Publisher: Square-Enix
Developer: indies zero
Release Date:: September 16, 2014
Review Score:: 9/10, 9/10

If it weren't for Curtain Call, the original Theatrhythm would surely be on this list. However, Curtain Call so thoroughly trumps its predecessor that the original game doesn't even need to exist at all. Adding more songs, more modes, and more multiplayer options, Curtain Call is even more of a love letter to Final Fantasy than its predecessor. Throw in the consistent stream of DLC, and this game is still going with tracks from Chrono Trigger, Bravely Default, Secret of Mana, and more being added every few weeks.

Talkback

ejamerFebruary 23, 2015

Out of curiosity, how were the rankings calculated?

PhilPhillip Stortzum, February 23, 2015

So far it looks like it's based on review score and when there's more than one review, the median is applied.

Each staffer sent in a list of their Top 20 games and then the #1 game was given 20 points, #2 19 points, etc etc until the 20th game got 1 point.

Review scores had nothing to do with it.

PhilPhillip Stortzum, February 23, 2015

Quote from: NWR_Neal

Each staffer sent in a list of their Top 20 games and then the #1 game was given 20 points, #2 19 points, etc etc until the 20th game got 1 point.

Review scores had nothing to do with it.

Funny coincidence so far then.  :P:

fred13February 23, 2015

@Neal just curious were there any ties in your points system and if so how did you break the tie

ejamerFebruary 23, 2015

Wouldn't NSMB2 put a hole in the review score theory?  I didn't exactly light up the charts with an average score of 8/10...

Quote from: NWR_Neal

Each staffer sent in a list of their Top 20 games and then the #1 game was given 20 points, #2 19 points, etc etc until the 20th game got 1 point.

Review scores had nothing to do with it.

Thanks for the clarifying.  ;D

Always fun to see these lists compiled, although using votes this way sometimes leads to "safe" picks where most commonly played games get more votes even if they aren't the ones people are most passionate about. But now that I've said that, it will be interesting to see how wrong I'm proven (a common occurrence).

Glad to see Persona Q mentioned, because it's a game I'm really excited about even though I haven't actually picked up yet.  Just looks right up my alley - apparently must also fit that description for at least one staff member?

ShyGuyFebruary 23, 2015

As a New 3DS owner, I will be watching this feature with interest.

nickmitchFebruary 23, 2015

Do you mean that you are a new owner of a 3DS, as in one who had not, until recently, purchased and then owned a Nintendo 3DS?

Quote from: fred13

@Neal just curious were there any ties in your points system and if so how did you break the tie

Ties, which off-hand only came up like once or twice, were determined by the highest amount of higher ranks. So, if two games tied, then the one with the most first-place votes would win the tiebreaker. If neither had a first-place vote, then it would fall to the highest amount of second-place votes, etc. etc.

Fortunately, it never got worse than that. Or else I'd probably flip a coin.

KhushrenadaFebruary 24, 2015

Quote from: nickmitch

Do you mean that you are a new owner of a 3DS, as in one who had not, until recently, purchased and then owned a Nintendo 3DS?

Yes. Don't you read these forums?

I do. So that I can keep track of everybody's lives.


For times like this, of course.


And no other reason.....

fred13February 24, 2015

So I own the original Theatrhythm, but everyone talks up Curtain Call like crazy. Is it enough better to justify paying the the game again? Or should I just continue to enjoy the original (I'm considering skipping curtain call, and then buying Theatrhythm Dragon Quest)

ejamerFebruary 24, 2015

I'm in the same boat about Curtain Call - although perfectly happy with the base game, I enjoy it so much that upgrading to an improved sequel seems tempting.  Is it worthwhile?


The Dragon Quest version is also tempting if it comes west...

PhilPhillip Stortzum, February 24, 2015

Quote from: fred13

So I own the original Theatrhythm, but everyone talks up Curtain Call like crazy. Is it enough better to justify paying the the game again? Or should I just continue to enjoy the original (I'm considering skipping curtain call, and then buying Theatrhythm Dragon Quest)

Curtain Call has A LOT more content in the form of around 200 songs, more Final Fantasy characters, online battles, a new Quest mode which makes getting crystals to unlock new characters more enjoyable, and more. I own both and Curtain Call is a definite step-up and worth purchasing.

Mop it upFebruary 24, 2015

Quote from: ShyGuy

As a New 3DS owner, I will be watching this feature with interest.

Luigi's Mansion 2, that's all you need to know.

Quote from: fred13

So I own the original Theatrhythm, but everyone talks up Curtain Call like crazy. Is it enough better to justify paying the the game again?

Quote from: ejamer

I'm in the same boat about Curtain Call - although perfectly happy with the base game, I enjoy it so much that upgrading to an improved sequel seems tempting.  Is it worthwhile?

For both of you, it depends on whether or not you bought the DLC for the original Theatrhythm. Curtain Call contains all the DLC available for the original game, and so if you bought it all or most of it, there will be a lot less new in Curtain Call. I would also say, that the new music it adds is mostly from spin-offs and such, and most of it isn't good, though I s'pose YMMV on that one. The best thing is that the game adds button controls which are much more precise than the touch control. It still feels like a souped-up iPhone game though so I say, only buy it if you find it on sale/cheap like I did.

Curtain Call makes the original Theatrhythm seem like it was a scam. /Ian Sane

Ian SaneFebruary 24, 2015

I own 4 3DS games and so far three of them have shown up in the bottom ten.  So in the eyes of NWR I guess I have good but not great taste. :)

ShyGuyFebruary 24, 2015

Quote from: nickmitch

Do you mean that you are a new owner of a 3DS, as in one who had not, until recently, purchased and then owned a Nintendo 3DS?

As a New-New 3DS owner, (who did not previously own a 3DS but did own a DS until it went missing in Jonny's ski boot) I look forward to Nickmitch.

This is almost as bad as Xbox One vs the first Xbox...

WahFebruary 24, 2015

10.Gunman Clive/ 2
9. Pokémon X
8. Super Mario 3d land
7. Mario kart 7
6. Majora's Mask
5. Kid Icarus: Uprising
4. Animal crossing Newleaf
3. Fire Emblem: awaking
2. Pokémon Alpha Sapphire
1. Smash Bros
What else! oh so hard to decide!

WahFebruary 24, 2015

Quote from: Lucariofan99

10.Gunman Clive/ 2
9. Pokémon X
8. Super Mario 3d land
7. Mario kart 7
6. Majora's Mask
5. Kid Icarus: Uprising
4. Animal crossing Newleaf
3. Fire Emblem: awaking
2. Pokémon Alpha Sapphire
1. Smash Bros
What else! oh so hard to decide!

In America!

nickmitchFebruary 24, 2015

Quote from: ShyGuy

Quote from: nickmitch

Do you mean that you are a new owner of a 3DS, as in one who had not, until recently, purchased and then owned a Nintendo 3DS?

As a New-New 3DS owner, (who did not previously own a 3DS but did own a DS until it went missing in Jonny's ski boot) I look forward to Nickmitch.

This is almost as bad as Xbox One vs the first Xbox...

I'm sorry, do you mean that you are a first time owner of a "new Nintendo 3DS"?
Or the owner of a "Brand New" (as in not used or refurbished) "new Nintendo 3DS?
Or one who has not previously owned hardware from the 3DS family that was not used or refurbished?
Or has Nintendo released a new console in the "new Nintendo 3DS" lineup?

ShyGuyFebruary 24, 2015

Quote from: nickmitch

Quote from: ShyGuy

Quote from: nickmitch

Do you mean that you are a new owner of a 3DS, as in one who had not, until recently, purchased and then owned a Nintendo 3DS?

As a New-New 3DS owner, (who did not previously own a 3DS but did own a DS until it went missing in Jonny's ski boot) I look forward to Nickmitch.

This is almost as bad as Xbox One vs the first Xbox...

I'm sorry, do you mean that you are a first time owner of a "new Nintendo 3DS"?
Or the owner of a "Brand New" (as in not used or refurbished) "new Nintendo 3DS?
Or one who has not previously owned hardware from the 3DS family that was not used or refurbished?
Or has Nintendo released a new console in the "new Nintendo 3DS" lineup?

SCREW THIS IM GETTING A VITA

Evan_BFebruary 24, 2015

With eShop titles, this list has every right to be 20 entries. However, having New Super Mario Bros. 2 in the top 20 of the system is a good indicator of how barren the 3DS library is in comparison with its predecessor.

I might as well post my own list.

20. The Keep
19. Resident Evil: Revelations
18. Kirby: Triple Deluxe
17. Rune Factory 4
!6. HarmoKnight
!5. Pokemon X and Y
14. The Starship Damrey
13. Fire Emblem: Awakening
12. Pushmo
11. Kid Icarus: Uprising
10. Mario Kart 7
9. Mighty Switch Force! 2
8. Crashmo
7. Shantae and the Pirate's Curse
6. Shin Megami Tensei IV
5. Crimson Shroud
4. Etrian Odyssey IV
3. Mutant Mudds
2. Super Smash Bros. for 3DS
1. The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds

Quote from: Evan_B

With eShop titles, this list has every right to be 20 entries. However, having New Super Mario Bros. 2 in the top 20 of the system is a good indicator of how barren the 3DS library is in comparison with its predecessor.

I really disagree, I'd say the 3DS library beats the hell out of the DS, in about half the time.

Evan_BFebruary 24, 2015

The DS was fascinated with touch based gaming during the first half of its life, but ultimately it became a muh more varied and interesting platform. The 3DS still has a lot of mediocre Nintendo titles and some of the worst entries in their respective series (3D Land, Sticker Star, NSMB2, etc) as well as less 3rd Party support.

Oh right, you're the crazy person who hates 3D Land.

SorenFebruary 25, 2015

Quote from: NWR_insanolord

Oh right, you're the crazy person who hates 3D Land.

Says the pot to the kettle.

Evan_BFebruary 25, 2015

If that game comes remotely close to the top five on this list... well, I guess it will just further affirm that people are satisfied with shoddy 3D Mario design.

I mean, I love 3D World, so you have to understand that it's not insanity that drives me. It's just knowing that Nintendo's portable Mario games had such a higher quality in terms of controls, level design, music, and difficulty and instead people praise them for the most generic entry in the franchise.

But hey, that's not what this topic is about!

PhilPhillip Stortzum, February 25, 2015

I find Nintendo had weak games on DS, too. New Super Mario Bros. to me is the weakest in the NSMB series, The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass is widely considered a poor Zelda, Wario: Master of Disguise is not very good, Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon is inferior to Awakening, Animal Crossing: New Leaf is superior to Wild World, but it also goes the other way, too.

I think the 3DS library is only getting better, and I would hazard a guess that it will have a better library than the DS by the time all is said and done.

KhushrenadaFebruary 25, 2015

I feel this has been discussed and mentioned before but I think it is pretty hard to disagree that most franchises that appear on the DS have a better entry on the 3DS. The only one that I feel that isn't true about is Mario Kart. 7 is weaker than MK DS. Unless Evan_B really thinks NSMB is better than Land 3D or NSMB2, then the Mario franchise is stronger on the 3DS than it is on the DS by default as it were.

It's like how the Metroid franchise is stronger on the DS because it has Hunters and Pinball and the 3DS lets you download Metroid NES or Metroid 2.

Quote from: Soren

Quote from: NWR_insanolord

Oh right, you're the crazy person who hates 3D Land.

Says the pot to the kettle.

Hey, to my credit, I have never once claimed to not be crazy, and I only express the opinions you're referring to in the way I do purely to piss people off.

Quote from: Evan_B

If that game comes remotely close to the top five on this list... well, I guess it will just further affirm that people are satisfied with shoddy 3D Mario design.

I haven't looked at the final list, but I'd be absolutely shocked if it weren't near the top. I can tell you I had it at #1 (though then again I had Mutant Mudds at #2, so that's not necessarily the greatest indicator).

Evan_BFebruary 25, 2015

I'm glad we at least agree that Mutant Mudds is a fantastic title.

I plan on going back to NSMB in the future, but from what I recall it and NSMBWii are the better titles than 2 and U. 2 is the most uninspired and U only benefits from the world map. Also, DS had SM64 which is better than 3D Land and NSMB2 combined.

But I do feel the discussion has veered in the wrong direction- where are the third party experiments? Where are the RPGs? Where is the volume of the 3DS library? Too often I see the same games being thrown around, which makes sense because some of them are good, but I am surprised by the lack of independent recommendations, and disappointed when I see the glaring flaws of titles like Mirror of Fate, or anything remotely related to Sonic. Even games like Henry Hatsworth and Contact are absent, or come in the form of eShop games, which there's a lot of but only a select few are stellar.

I already see the 3DS losing steam- they're throwing a free to play Pokemon Shuffle up, a new IP, a remake (it's quality nonwithstanding) and a new Fire Emblem out this year. I only want one of those things. Coupled with last year's poor showing I feel that 2013 was the best year the 3DS will ever have, and had the best title the 3DS will ever have as well.

The only way you can claim the 3DS library lacks volume is if you completely ignore the eShop. There might not be a ton of top tier stuff there, but there's a pretty significant crop of good games.

And part of the difference between our opinions seems to be our personal tastes. You're right, the DS was way better for RPGs, but those aren't a huge deal for me, while I'd say one of the biggest weaknesses of the original DS was platformers, which we've seen a lot more of on 3DS.

ejamerFebruary 25, 2015

Comparing the DS and 3DS libraries is an interesting discussion.


I feel like the DS library was much broader, including plenty of odd and experimental games (or non-games) along with a whole bunch of RPGs that were incredibly enjoyable. That gives it an edge in my mind. But even though the 3DS has a much smaller library of games, it has some very high points included in that library - and if you include digital releases that helps to make up for a lot of the missing breadth.


There is no clear winner in my opinion... but it's pretty awesome that 3DS is fully backwards compatible giving you the ability to play the best of both game libraries!

fred13February 25, 2015

I've got to say, I'm a little disappointed to see Fire Emblem today instead of tomorrow (in other words not top 5) I probably would have put it at number 1 (although if you ask me again in a month it's possible I'd put Majora's Mask or Monster Hunter 4 there). However, I'm relieved to see that at least it is #6 which isn't bad at all.


As for the Mario conversation,
Personally 3D Land is my all time favorite Mario game (yes I own 64, Sunshine, Galaxy 1, Galaxy 2, and 3D World) followed closely by Galaxy 2 with 3D World a distant 3rd and probably Sunshine 4th.




Personally NSMB 2 is my favorite "new" Mario game followed closely by Luigi U, not Mario U or the DS one (they're good, but not as good as 2)


Mutant Mudds is an odd beast to me as I downloaded the demo and absolutely loved it a couple years ago. Since then I've almost bought it so many times it's not even funny, but I've never been able to pull the trigger.



Triforce HermitFebruary 25, 2015

So Rune Factory 4 isn't going to be on this list?

Just me, but I didn't enjoy the DS library that much and enjoy the 3DS library more.

pokepal148Spencer Johnson, Contributing WriterFebruary 25, 2015

Get that Mario Kart 7 filth off this list pronto. That game is just a rushjob with poor track design and little content.

Ian SaneFebruary 25, 2015

The 3DS is a Nintendo system that I really don't have any issues with.  Okay it isn't perfect by any means but I find myself quite content with it.  Last gen was just endless frustration for me with both the Wii and DS constantly letting me down but my 3DS experience has been pretty great.  With the Wii and DS Nintendo was pushing hard to land the non-gamers and casuals and they would shoehorn in gimmicky control schemes.  The 3DS seems more conventional like it's just making good games.  Just the fact that the 3DS Zelda has normal controls shows the different approach.

Though I think some of it is more that the 3DS fits my life right now better than the DS did.  First of all I have an XL while I had an original model DS and bigger screen makes a major difference.  I've stuck mostly with RPGs on the 3DS which is a genre I feel works well on handhelds.  I COULD have easily done that on the DS but for some reason didn't.  And since I don't own a Wii U the 3DS has become my de facto main system.  I've always treated handhelds as an afterthought so I would play the big games and that's it.  On the 3DS I tend to pay more attention to it overall since I don't have a Nintendo console as my focus.  I've ignored the more "mainstream" games like Mario and actually find I'm enjoying myself more by doing so.

fred13February 25, 2015

How is Advance Wars not on here!?!
Oh yea that's right Nintendo never made one of the 3DS. Dang you Intelligent Systems! 2 Fire Emblem games (don't get me wrong I loved Awakening) and no Advance Wars!
All I can say is Codename:S.T.E.A.M. better be REALLY good to make up for it!

macverdeFebruary 25, 2015

Quote from: fred13

How is Advance Wars not on here!?!
Oh yea that's right Nintendo never made one of the 3DS. Dang you Intelligent Systems! 2 Fire Emblem games (don't get me wrong I loved Awakening) and no Advance Wars!
All I can say is Codename:S.T.E.A.M. better be REALLY good to make up for it!

I feel the same way.... I really wish an advance wars 3ds.

but, after the demo, i'm totally sold about Codename STEAM.

2 fire emblem, codename and even pushmo/crashmo is not a problem. advance wars 3ds is probably better than sticker star (not talking about sales).

Mop it upFebruary 25, 2015

Quote from: Evan_B

With eShop titles, this list has every right to be 20 entries. However, having New Super Mario Bros. 2 in the top 20 of the system is a good indicator of how barren the 3DS library is in comparison with its predecessor.

I have to agree, the 3DS just isn't living up to the legacy of the DS. Of course, as I always say, it's the friggin' DS, which is an extremely tough act to follow. Probably impossible. The 3DS is a good system in its own right, especially when judged on its own merits and not compared to the DS. But as someone who didn't have a DS and use my 3DS as my DS, I've bought and played way more DS games as I wait (and wait and wait) for anything worthwhile to come out on 3DS. I can't imagine my 3DS library ever coming close to the number of games I've amassed for DS.

WahFebruary 25, 2015

Quote from: Evan_B

With eShop titles, this list has every right to be 20 entries. However, having New Super Mario Bros. 2 in the top 20 of the system is a good indicator of how barren the 3DS library is in comparison with its predecessor.

I might as well post my own list.

20. The Keep
19. Resident Evil: Revelations
18. Kirby: Triple Deluxe
17. Rune Factory 4
!6. HarmoKnight
!5. Pokemon X and Y
14. The Starship Damrey
13. Fire Emblem: Awakening
12. Pushmo
11. Kid Icarus: Uprising
10. Mario Kart 7
9. Mighty Switch Force! 2
8. Crashmo
7. Shantae and the Pirate's Curse
6. Shin Megami Tensei IV
5. Crimson Shroud
4. Etrian Odyssey IV
3. Mutant Mudds
2. Super Smash Bros. for 3DS
1. The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds

just two things,
Sapphire and ruby is better then X/Y
and Link between worlds seriously!? I think Tingle's games are better!

KhushrenadaFebruary 25, 2015

Quote from: Lucariofan99

just two things,

I thought for sure it was going to be 1. In and 2. America. Glad that's over with.

Here's my personal list

1. Shovel Knight
2. A Link Between Worlds
3. Fantasy Life
4. Kid Icarus Uprising
5. Animal Crossing: NL
6. Super Smash Bros.
7. Theatrhythm Final Fantasy CC
8. Luigi's Mansion Dark Moon
9. Fire Emblem Awakening
10. Super Mario 3D Land
11. Shin Megami Tensei IV
12. Tomodachi Life
13. Kirby Triple Deluxe
14. Pokemon X/Y
15. Etrian Odyssey IV
16. VVVVVV
17. Mutant Mudds
18. Shantae and the Pirate's Curse
19. New Super Mario Bros. 2
20. Ocarina of Time 3D

Also, for any inquiring minds, if the overall NWR staff list were to go to 25 for some reason, the last 5 would have been...
VVVVVV
Pushmo
RE Revelaitons
SMT IV
Kirby Triple Deluxe

And to show off the diversity of top picks, we only had one game (our #1 game) that had more than 1 first-place vote out of the 10 staffers that sent in lists.

Hope you enjoyed this so far. We'll have a Wii U one coming soon.

Evan_BFebruary 26, 2015

Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire removed content that was key to me enjoying X and Y. Also, Hoenn is boring.

KhushrenadaFebruary 26, 2015

Quote from: NWR_Neal

Here's my personal list

1. Shovel Knight
2. A Link Between Worlds
3. Fantasy Life
4. Kid Icarus Uprising
5. Animal Crossing: NL
6. Super Smash Bros.
7. Theatrhythm Final Fantasy CC
8. Luigi's Mansion Dark Moon
9. Fire Emblem Awakening
10. Super Mario 3D Land
11. Shin Megami Tensei IV
12. Tomodachi Life
13. Kirby Triple Deluxe
14. Pokemon X/Y
15. Etrian Odyssey IV
16. VVVVVV
17. Mutant Mudds
18. Shantae and the Pirate's Curse
19. New Super Mario Bros. 2
20. Ocarina of Time 3D

Also, for any inquiring minds, if this list were to go to 25 for some reason, the last 5 would have been...
VVVVVV
Pushmo
RE Revelaitons
SMT IV
Kirby Triple Deluxe

And to show off the diversity of top picks, we only had one game (our #1 game) that had more than 1 first-place vote out of the 10 staffers that sent in lists.

Hope you enjoyed this so far. We'll have a Wii U one coming soon.

So, Triple Deluxe is both 13 and 25? A game so good it makes the list twice or just indicative of the lack of 3DS software?

KhushrenadaFebruary 26, 2015

For that matter, VVVVVV is also 16 and 21 while SMT IV is both 11 and 24. I hope the ballot counters double checked those ballots!

SorenFebruary 26, 2015

List invalidated. Voter fraud detected.

marvel_moviefan_2012February 26, 2015

I was at the game store ready to buy a 3DS, they were sold out of New 3DS all they had were regular and some special edition Yoshi one and a Smash Bros. one. Then I ended up getting the entire D&D 5th Edition core rule set instead. Oh well maybe next time.

Bah! Didn't make it clear: the 1-20 there was my personal list. The 21-25 were 5 more on the NWR Staff list.

KhushrenadaFebruary 26, 2015

Oh. And here I thought Kirby may have done it and gotten the number 1 spot on this list.

Predictions of the top 5 then.

5. Kid Icarus
4. Animal Crossing: New Leaf
3. Super Mario Land 3D
2. A Link Between Worlds
1. Smash Bros. 3DS

relewis2011February 26, 2015

An excellent Top 20, no doubt, but I really would have loved to see Kirby: Triple Deluxe crack the list. I would have arguably put it in my Top 10, honestly. Some of the most fun I've had platforming, not only in a Kirby game, but on the 3DS' entire catalogue. Still, well put together list, NWR!

fred13February 26, 2015

To quote the great James Jones “Wow… just, Wow” Said in complete disbelief.

I can’t believe Kid Icarus made the top 5. I figured it was likely to make the list because a number of people loved it, but there are so many people, myself included, that absolutely hated that game. I’m honestly shocked at the #5 rating.

I’m also pleasantly surprised that Pushmo/Crashmo didn’t make the list.

My list
#1-Fire Emblem Awakening
#2-Majora’s Mask 3D
#3-A Link Between Worlds
#4-Star Fox 64 3D (I enjoyed it more this time then I did as a kid)
#5-Monster Hunter 4
#6-New Super Mario Bros 2
#7-Mario 3D Land
#8-Ocarina of Time 3D
#9-Theatrhythm
#10-Starship Defense (terrible graphics, but who cares it’s SUPER FUN)
#11-Zelda Four Swords Anniversary Edition (would have gotten higher if you could buy it or do download play instead it’s hard to play cause most don’t have it)
#12-Weapon Shop de Omasse
#13-Donkey Kong Country Returns
#14-Smash Bros (would have gotten higher, but smash fun comes from multiplayer and even though 4 of us in the family play 3DS I couldn’t justify $160 so we can’t play together)
#15-Luigi’s Mansion
#16-Kirby Triple Deluxe
#17-Rayman Origins (only if played with 3D off it’s the only game where the 3D gives me a headache)
#18-Brain Age Concentration Training
#19-Gunman Clive
#20-Mario Kart 7

fred13February 26, 2015

I was sorely tempted to put Xenoblade 3D at number 1, but where I haven't actually played the 3DS version, only the Wii version I figured someone would cry foul

Ian SaneFebruary 26, 2015

I don't own any of the top five and I find I'm quite uninterested in all of them.  Much of the same tired old franchises.  Kid Icarus would be an exception but the description of the game's controls completely turned me off.  You figure I'd still be interested in Zelda.  I borrowed my brother's copy but the game just lifts the world from A Link to the Past so it felt like weird hackjob mod.

But the 3DS is good enough that I can skip NWR's top five and not give a shit and not feel like I'm struggling to find something to play.  The 3DS has gotten some criticism regarding its third party support but it's strong enough that I feel there's enough variety to ignore most of the big first party games.  That's what a Nintendo system should aim for - to have enough variety that one person's top 20 and another person's top 20 could be completely different.  If you polled for people's Wii U top 20 you would probably get the same titles appearing again and again because the library just isn't deep enough.

pokepal148Spencer Johnson, Contributing WriterFebruary 26, 2015

I'm also going to nag about 3d Land getting the #1 spot just because of how much content in that game is blatantly recycled, especially with the special worlds.

There are like 8 levels in that game that are just rehashed versions of 1-2 ffs.

PhilPhillip Stortzum, February 26, 2015

My favorite 3DS games are The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds, Ocarina of Time 3D, Super Mario 3D Land, Kid Icarus: Uprising, and Animal Crossing: New Leaf.

Quote from: Evan_B

If that game comes remotely close to the top five on this list... well, I guess it will just further affirm that people are satisfied with shoddy 3D Mario design.

http://i.imgur.com/IPu9lxT.gif

Evan_BFebruary 26, 2015

Yeah yeah. What I find hilarious is that the description for 3D Land cites some of its flaws and yet ranks it above other, better titles anyway.

I've yet to see someone defend the padding and boring level design.

KhushrenadaFebruary 27, 2015

Quote from: Evan_B

Yeah yeah. What I find hilarious is that the description for 3D Land cites some of its flaws and yet ranks it above other, better titles anyway.

I've yet to see someone defend the padding and boring level design.

That's exactly what I was thinking too. I personally don't have a problem with a high ranking of Mario 3D Land. I found it a more inventive and compelling Mario experience than any other since Sunshine. NSMB Wii is close but 3D Land stands out for me. That said, I wouldn't rank it number 1 and I have disappointments about it. A prime one being that it's special world is mostly (all?) recycled levels just with a new twist or challenge. Well, make a "special world" then? Just have the normal 8 worlds but with these different goals to complete also. Like Sunshine where you'll go back to the same world but there will often be a tweak to the environment and a new objective in that world from the first shine.

What's great is how the description says: "The first few worlds of Super Mario 3D Land certainly don't feel like the best game on the system," (aka almost half the game) "but as the game opens up past its first eight worlds and onto the second group of eight worlds, 3D Land asserts its dominance". I actually like the game more when I played it's normal 8 worlds. I'd kept hearing great things about the second set of worlds and it when I began playing them and realized the game was just re-using levels, I couldn't figure out why it was getting praised so much. It wasn't a new experience. There was just a new challenge or twist added. I completed it because I've completed every Mario game I've played.

"As a masterpiece that is a showcase for the system in the same kind of way that Super Mario 64 was for the Nintendo 64." Way too hyperbolic. Zooming in with the binoculars and finding Toad or aiming cannons was a great showcase of the 3DS gyroscope? Tapping the touchscreen for a second item (which was first done in NSMB) is a great showcase of the touchscreen? Personally, despite its flaws, I think Rhythm Thief does a better job showcasing the system than 3D Land and there's probably a few other games as well that could be thrown into that mix.

"3D Land's boundless creativity bred awesome challenges and breathtaking levels, all of which were perfectly engineered for the portable play style." Boundless creativity to me would mean there would be levels reused two or 3 times and the boss battles wouldn't be as repetitive either.
"Somehow, the team at EAD Tokyo blended the best aspects of 2D and 3D Mario and created the finest game on the 3DS less than a year after the system released." I could debate this more but I'm probably coming off too harsh and negative than I really am on the game. I get that as the number one game it will have a glowing review but it feels like it is stretching to justify its spot and I find some of the points debatable.

Still, I like lists and I always like to see game rankings to compare different thoughts from different people on things. I do find it fascinating, (if somewhat maddening when I completely disagree) and look forward to the possible VC or best of the rest type list I think may be posted tomorrow. (I find it hard to believe you'd do all your game rankings and then have nothing for Friday.)

KhushrenadaFebruary 27, 2015

Quote from: Khushrenada

A prime one being that it's special world is mostly (all?) recycled levels just with a new twist or challenge. Why make a "special world" then?

Fixed

Boundless creativity to me wouldn't mean there would be levels reused two or 3 times and the boss battles wouldn't be as repetitive either.

Fixed

Really got to remember to proofread more when posting in Talkback.

Evan_BFebruary 27, 2015

I'd also argue that nothing in SM3DL is breathtaking in comparison with pre-existing Mario titles or even other games on the list.

And I'd argue it's easily the best game on the system, and one of the best games I've ever played anywhere.

relewis2011February 27, 2015

Quote from: NWR_insanolord

And I'd argue it's easily the best game on the system, and one of the best games I've ever played anywhere.

*Mic Drop*


Case closed, folks!!!  :D

KhushrenadaFebruary 27, 2015

Quote from: NWR_insanolord

And I'd argue it's easily the best game on the system, and one of the best games I've ever played anywhere.

We were talking about 3D Land. I don't know why you were talking about M & M's Kart Racing.

marvel_moviefan_2012February 27, 2015

Considering I think Super Mario 3D World is the best game of this generation and best 3D Mario I would be inclined to think I would side with 3D Land not being good. I base that on LOVING Mario World but not Mario Land in previous decades past.

Ian SaneFebruary 27, 2015

Quote from: Khushrenada

"As a masterpiece that is a showcase for the system in the same kind of way that Super Mario 64 was for the Nintendo 64." Way too hyperbolic.

Comparing any game to Super Mario 64 is treading into hyperbole.  I'd argue the only Mario game that deserves such a comparison is Super Mario Bros. itself.  Super Mario 64 influenced almost all 3D games made since.  Super Mario 3D Land has influenced...uh... its sequel?

I think I've played one level of 3D Land while trying out my friend's 3DS before I got mine so I haven't given it much of a go.  However 3D World tends to get even higher praise and I at least played that for a couple hours and found it dull.  So if 3D Land is the lesser of the two what would I think of it?  But then I find that context matters.  I've played as much Mario as I want to for a long time.  These Mario games to me feel like the same tropes being recycled again.  I can recognize that in a vacuum the level design might be great but I'm just personally bored of the gameplay.  I need a break.  Nintendo used to understand that and would space out their Mario platformers appropriately.  After a few years of no Mario I might be able to pick up 3D Land or World and be thrilled with it.

Mop it upFebruary 27, 2015

I came in here to say what Khushrenada pretty much already covered. The eight special worlds in Super Mario 3D Land are one of the prime examples of laziness in a Nintendo game, most of the special levels are barely changed from the originals, and some of them are actually easier since they have things like enemies removed. I liked the game until that point, but when that happened, I groaned, and the game turned into a real slog. Usually I can see the appeal in things that don't interest me, but I just don't get this game's high praise.

Infinitys_EndFebruary 28, 2015

I thought KIU was a worthless piece of shit, but otherwise great list.

pokepal148Spencer Johnson, Contributing WriterMarch 01, 2015

Quote from: Mop

I came in here to say what Khushrenada pretty much already covered. The eight special worlds in Super Mario 3D Land are one of the prime examples of laziness in a Nintendo game, most of the special levels are barely changed from the originals, and some of them are actually easier since they have things like enemies removed. I liked the game until that point, but when that happened, I groaned, and the game turned into a real slog. Usually I can see the appeal in things that don't interest me, but I just don't get this game's high praise.

My thing is they should have just taken the 4 or so original levels they have in there and made them world 9 (which would lead to a switch palace type thing to activate the statue ability for the tanooki suit) and then repackaged all of the rehashed content as a "Challenge Mode"

Quote from: Infinitys_End

I thought MK7 was a worthless piece of shit, but otherwise great list.

Fixed!

WahMarch 01, 2015

3d lands good, but doesn't deserve number on spot.

KhushrenadaMarch 01, 2015

Quote from: Lucariofan99

3d lands good, but doesn't deserve number on spot.

That seems to be the majority opinion.

Quote from: Khushrenada

Quote from: Lucariofan99

3d lands good, but doesn't deserve number on spot.

That seems to be the majority opinion.

That's all the proof you need to see that democracy doesn't work.

SorenMarch 02, 2015

Quote from: NWR_insanolord

That's all the proof you need to see that democracy doesn't work.

You're right. The people who voted for this list got it all wrong.

Mop it upMarch 02, 2015

Will there be an article for the NWR readers' top 20?

KhushrenadaMarch 02, 2015

I doubt it. Last time there was supposed to be NWR reader list was for Zelda titles and, despite the fact I went and compiled all the data from the lists everyone contributed and sent it to Insanolord, he still didn't write up the results and it never happened. With Insanolord still Community Manager after that fiasco, why would you expect it to happen now? Maybe someday, if we get someone like Crimm or myself as community manager, you might see things like that but, for now, Insanolord wants to make sure his precious 3D Land always has the number one spot on any list published by NWR.


It's so easy to make him look bad.

I hadn't considered doing a community list, but if people would like that I'd be open to it. I might even post the results so people could see.

KhushrenadaMarch 02, 2015

Quote from: NWR_insanolord

I hadn't considered doing a community list

Always thinking of the community. Zing!  8)

ejamerMarch 03, 2015

Yay!  Let's do a community list!

marvel_moviefan_2012March 03, 2015

Do this for Wii U and I am in. 3DS is not happening anytime soon.

PhilPhillip Stortzum, March 03, 2015

Quote from: ejamer

Yay!  Let's do a community list!

Double Yay!

KhushrenadaMarch 03, 2015

You asked for it, you got it!

KhushrenadaMarch 03, 2015

I just bought Theatrhythm: Curtain Call. Not sure I'll like it as the demo never wowed me from the first Theatrhythm and I've played no Final Fantasy games so I have no connection to the music. That said, it was just $25.00 which is pretty close to my just buy it and take a chance threshold which is $2.00. That means I now own 11 of the NWR top 20 3DS games. (And I've thoroughly played about 4 and half of them. Mario Kart 7 is the half.)

Mop it upMarch 04, 2015

I have 14 of these 20 games. Here are the 6 I don't have:

Persona Q (interested in the genre but have not played Persona 3 or 4 yet so would be clueless about the characters)
Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D (have it on Wii so no reason to get this)
Shantae and the Pirate's Curse (not interested)
Mutant Mudds (tried the demo, not interested)
Pokémon Omega Ruby/Alpha Sapphire (somewhat curious, might get if cheap)
Shovel Knight (not interested)

Quote from: Khushrenada

You asked for it, you got it!

If you hadn't then I would have.

Quote from: Khushrenada

I just bought Theatrhythm: Curtain Call. Not sure I'll like it as the demo never wowed me from the first Theatrhythm and I've played no Final Fantasy games so I have no connection to the music.

Just make sure that you use headphones or some sort of external speakers, as the music has some nuances that you just won't hear on the tinny 3DS speakers.

ejamerMarch 04, 2015


Interesting to see how collections stack up for different people versus what was selected as the top 20.  For me:


10 games - already owned (1 on a different platform)
6 games - want but don't own yet (1 wanted on a different platform)
4 games - no interest owning


There are also a few 3DS games I really want not listed: Majora's Mask and Monster Hunger 4 both at the top of that list.

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