Are you a fan of epic adventures, captivating stories, and strategic battles? Then you’ve come to the right place. The Nintendo 3DS, despite being a handheld from a bygone era, still boasts an impressive library of 3ds role playing games that can provide hours upon hours of engaging gameplay. In this article, we’ll delve into the best that this system has to offer, exploring what makes these RPGs so special and why you should still consider playing them today. Whether you’re a seasoned RPG veteran or a newcomer to the genre, there’s bound to be a title on this list that will capture your imagination. We’ll also touch on what sets these games apart from each other, providing insights into gameplay mechanics, story depth, and overall replayability.
What Makes 3DS RPGs So Special?
The Nintendo 3DS offered a unique handheld experience with its dual-screen setup and 3D capabilities. However, beyond the hardware, the console became a home to some of the most innovative and beloved RPGs of its generation. These games often combined traditional JRPG mechanics with modern design philosophies, resulting in experiences that were both familiar and refreshingly new. From expansive worlds to intricate character customization, the best 3DS RPGs provided a level of depth and engagement that was unmatched on other handhelds. Many titles also took full advantage of the system’s touch screen and stylus, creating intuitive and satisfying user interfaces. Before we get into specifics, it’s important to understand what makes a good RPG.
- Compelling Storylines: A good RPG is more than just combat; it’s about the journey.
- Engaging Combat Systems: Turn-based, real-time, or strategic – the combat should be well-designed and fun.
- Character Customization: Being able to shape your character’s abilities and appearance is key.
- Expansive Worlds: Open areas, secret locations, and varied environments make exploration rewarding.
- Replayability: A great RPG is one you can come back to multiple times.
Top 3DS RPGs You Need to Play
Now, let’s get into the heart of the matter – the absolute must-play RPGs on the 3DS. These games are not just good; they are exceptional examples of the genre, each offering something unique and captivating.
Bravely Default and Bravely Second
The Bravely Default series is a love letter to classic Final Fantasy games, with a turn-based combat system that offers a refreshing twist called “Brave and Default.” This allows players to store turns for later use, or borrow turns in advance, adding a layer of strategy to each battle. The series’ intricate job system allows for a huge amount of character customization.
- Key Features: Brave/Default combat mechanic, beautiful art style, deep job system.
- Why it’s special: The unique battle system sets it apart from other turn-based RPGs.
- Perfect for: Fans of classic JRPGs and those who enjoy deep customization.
“Bravely Default was a game-changer for me,” says game critic, Evelyn Reed. “The Brave/Default system is innovative, and the storyline keeps you hooked from beginning to end. It’s a must play for any 3DS RPG fan.”
Fire Emblem Awakening and Fire Emblem Fates
The Fire Emblem series is known for its tactical depth and challenging gameplay, and Awakening and Fates are shining examples of this. With turn-based battles on a grid, Fire Emblem games force you to think strategically about each move. These games feature deep character relationships and permadeath (characters permanently die), making every battle intense.
- Key Features: Tactical grid-based combat, permadeath, character relationships.
- Why it’s special: The strategic depth and permadeath mechanic create tension and reward careful planning.
- Perfect for: Strategy RPG fans looking for a challenge.
Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate and Monster Hunter Generations
While technically an action RPG, the Monster Hunter series features RPG progression and a complex combat system. Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate and Generations are outstanding entries on the 3DS. These games emphasize large-scale monster hunts, strategic equipment building, and multiplayer cooperation.
- Key Features: Large-scale monster hunts, deep crafting system, engaging multiplayer.
- Why it’s special: The unique blend of action and RPG elements and the emphasis on teamwork.
- Perfect for: Action RPG fans who want a deep progression system and multiplayer fun.
Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past and Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King
The Dragon Quest series are considered the grandfathers of JRPGs. The 3DS remakes of Dragon Quest VII and VIII breathe new life into these classics, featuring traditional turn-based battles, charming characters, and expansive worlds to explore. best 3ds role playing games are typically considered to have a very charming feel.
- Key Features: Classic turn-based battles, charming characters, vast worlds.
- Why it’s special: The nostalgia factor and the engaging stories and characters.
- Perfect for: Those who appreciate traditional JRPGs and timeless narratives.
Shin Megami Tensei IV and Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse
The Shin Megami Tensei series is known for its dark, post-apocalyptic themes and challenging gameplay. These games involve demon negotiation, a deep fusion system, and a moral alignment system, creating a unique RPG experience. These are definitely for players who like something more gritty and morally ambiguous.
- Key Features: Demon negotiation and fusion, dark themes, challenging battles.
- Why it’s special: The unique gameplay systems and morally challenging storyline.
- Perfect for: Gamers who enjoy dark and mature RPG experiences.
Etrian Odyssey IV: Legends of the Titan and Etrian Odyssey Untold: The Millennium Girl
The Etrian Odyssey series is all about dungeon crawling, map making, and strategic party building. These games feature first-person exploration, challenging battles, and a robust class system, making them incredibly engaging. These are great games for those who like to think tactically.
- Key Features: First-person dungeon exploration, map creation, complex class system.
- Why it’s special: The unique focus on mapping and exploration makes it stand out.
- Perfect for: Gamers who enjoy challenging dungeon crawlers.
Comparing the Best 3DS RPGs
To better understand the differences between these top-tier RPGs, let’s take a look at a comparison chart highlighting their key features.
| Game | Combat System | Story Depth | Customization | World Size | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bravely Default | Turn-Based (Brave/Def.) | High | High | Large | Innovative combat, beautiful art style |
| Fire Emblem Awakening | Tactical Grid-Based | High | Medium | Medium | Deep strategy, engaging character relationships |
| Monster Hunter 4U | Action | Medium | Medium | Large | Large-scale hunts, deep crafting system |
| Dragon Quest VII | Turn-Based | High | Medium | Huge | Timeless narrative, charming characters |
| Shin Megami Tensei IV | Turn-Based | High | Medium | Medium | Dark themes, demon negotiation |
| Etrian Odyssey IV | Turn-Based, First-Pers. | Medium | High | Large | Focus on mapping, challenging dungeons |
This table should help you see where each game shines, letting you pick the titles that appeal most to your personal tastes. Each of these games provides a unique and rich RPG experience. When it comes to best role playing games for 3ds, the 3DS is the perfect home for fans of the genre.
FAQ About 3DS RPGs
Here are some frequently asked questions about RPGs on the 3DS:
Q: Are 3DS RPGs still worth playing in 2024?
A: Absolutely! Many of the games on this system have aged incredibly well, offering fantastic gameplay experiences that are still relevant today. The 3DS library is rich with RPG titles that are timeless.
Q: Where can I buy 3DS RPGs?
A: You can find many 3DS RPGs at online retailers, local game stores, or through digital marketplaces that offer used games. While the eShop for 3DS is no longer active, physical copies are widely available at role playing games shop.
Q: Are there any hidden gems on the 3DS that are not as well-known?
A: Yes, games like Radiant Historia: Perfect Chronology and Stella Glow offer unique experiences that are worth checking out. There are a number of titles that might be considered “hidden gems” for 3DS RPG fans.
Q: Do I need to play the older Fire Emblem games to enjoy Awakening or Fates?
A: Not at all! Each game in the series has its own story and characters, making them easy to jump into. They will all have that traditional tactical RPG feel that defines the series.
Q: What are the most challenging 3DS RPGs?
A: Shin Megami Tensei IV and Etrian Odyssey games are known for their challenging gameplay. If you are looking for a real test of your RPG skills, these are titles that you will want to check out.
Q: How long can I expect to play the best 3DS RPGs?
A: Most of these games offer at least 40-60 hours of gameplay, with some offering even more if you complete all side quests and challenges. There is a lot of quality content to enjoy.
Conclusion
The Nintendo 3DS is home to an incredible collection of RPGs that are sure to satisfy any fan of the genre. From tactical battles to expansive worlds, these games offer something special that you won’t find anywhere else. So grab your 3DS, charge it up, and dive into these epic adventures. Whether you prefer classic turn-based battles or challenging dungeon crawls, the 3DS has a game for you. It’s a handheld with a rich RPG legacy that deserves to be explored. With titles like Bravely Default, Fire Emblem Awakening, and Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate, the 3ds role playing games provide a truly compelling gaming experience.
If you’re a fan of fantasy settings and online RPGs, you might also find something that interests you at fantasy role playing games online.
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