The Nintendo 3DS has been a fantastic handheld console, and one of the most enjoyable genres on the system is fighting games. The 3DS has a surprisingly robust library of fighters, ranging from classic arcade ports to exclusive titles that showcase the system's capabilities. In this article, we'll dive into the 7 best 3DS fighting games, exploring their unique features, gameplay, and what makes them stand out from the competition.
1. Super Street Fighter IV: 3D Edition
Developed by Capcom, Super Street Fighter IV: 3D Edition is a feature-packed port of the popular arcade game. The 3DS version retains the same gameplay and mechanics as the original, with a few added tweaks to take advantage of the handheld's capabilities. The game includes all 35 characters from the original, as well as a new " Dynamic Mode" that utilizes the 3DS's StreetPass feature to generate random battles against other players.
Key Features:
- 35 playable characters
- All-new "Dynamic Mode" utilizing StreetPass
- Support for local and online multiplayer
- Optional 3D visuals
2. Dead or Alive: Dimensions
Tecmo Koei's Dead or Alive: Dimensions is a 3D fighting game that takes advantage of the 3DS's hardware to deliver stunning visuals and smooth gameplay. The game features a unique " Chronicle Mode" that retells the story of the series, as well as a robust multiplayer mode with support for local and online play.
Key Features:
- 26 playable characters
- "Chronicle Mode" retelling the series' story
- Support for local and online multiplayer
- Optional 3D visuals
3. Virtue's Last Reward
Virtue's Last Reward is a unique fighting game that blends visual novel elements with strategy-based combat. Developed by Spike Chunsoft, the game follows the story of nine characters trapped in a mysterious facility, competing in battles to escape. The game features a complex storyline with multiple endings, as well as a unique " Free Battle" mode that allows players to customize their own battles.
Key Features:
- Unique blend of visual novel and fighting game elements
- Complex storyline with multiple endings
- "Free Battle" mode for customizing battles
- Support for local multiplayer
4. Tekken 3D: Prime Edition
Bandai Namco's Tekken 3D: Prime Edition is a 3D fighting game that showcases the series' iconic characters and stages. The game features a unique " Tekken Card" system, which allows players to collect and trade virtual cards featuring characters and stages from the series.
Key Features:
- 41 playable characters
- Unique "Tekken Card" system
- Support for local and online multiplayer
- Optional 3D visuals
5. BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II
Arc System Works' BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II is a 2D fighting game that features a unique storyline and complex gameplay mechanics. The game includes a robust multiplayer mode with support for local and online play, as well as a " Legion Mode" that pits players against waves of opponents.
Key Features:
- 18 playable characters
- Unique storyline and complex gameplay mechanics
- Support for local and online multiplayer
- "Legion Mode" for battling against waves of opponents
6. Pokémon Rumble U
Pokémon Rumble U is a unique fighting game that combines the popular Pokémon franchise with action-packed gameplay. Developed by Ambrella, the game features a unique "King of the Ruins" mode that pits players against massive, roaming Pokémon.
Key Features:
- Unique blend of Pokémon and fighting game elements
- "King of the Ruins" mode for battling massive Pokémon
- Support for local multiplayer
- Optional 3D visuals
7. Naruto Shippuden 3D: The New Era
Tomy's Naruto Shippuden 3D: The New Era is a 3D fighting game that features the popular Naruto franchise. The game includes a unique " Story Mode" that retells the story of the series, as well as a robust multiplayer mode with support for local and online play.
Key Features:
- 40 playable characters
- Unique "Story Mode" retelling the series' story
- Support for local and online multiplayer
- Optional 3D visuals
Final Thoughts
The Nintendo 3DS has a surprisingly robust library of fighting games, ranging from classic arcade ports to exclusive titles that showcase the system's capabilities. Whether you're a fan of 2D or 3D fighting games, there's something on this list for everyone. With their unique features, engaging gameplay, and optional 3D visuals, these 7 best 3DS fighting games are sure to provide hours of entertainment for fans of the genre.
Call to Action
Which of these 7 best 3DS fighting games is your favorite? Do you have a go-to character or stage? Let us know in the comments below! Share this article with your friends and fellow gamers to spread the word about these amazing fighting games.
What is the best 3DS fighting game for beginners?
+Super Street Fighter IV: 3D Edition is a great starting point for beginners, as it features a robust tutorial mode and a variety of playable characters.
Which 3DS fighting game has the best multiplayer mode?
+Tekken 3D: Prime Edition has a robust multiplayer mode with support for local and online play, as well as a unique "Tekken Card" system.
What is the most unique 3DS fighting game?
+Virtue's Last Reward is a unique fighting game that blends visual novel elements with strategy-based combat, featuring a complex storyline with multiple endings.