A Nostalgic Look at Ten JRPGs Stuck on the Nintendo 3DS
The Nintendo 3DS was a groundbreaking handheld console that introduced many gamers to the world of Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs). Its unique features, such as the dual-screen design, touchscreen controls, and a vast eShop library, made it a popular choice for fans of the genre. However, with the closure of the 3DS eShop and Nintendo’s shift towards the Switch, many of these beloved games are now only playable on aging hardware.
Despite the advancements in modern consoles, the Nintendo 3DS still holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers. Its dual screens, touch input, and autostereoscopic 3D capabilities set it apart from other devices. Let’s take a look back at ten of these JRPGs that are still locked on aging hardware, waiting for a much-needed revival on modern consoles.
Dragon Ball Fusions (2016)
This turn-based JRPG allows players to combine fighters from across the Dragon Ball universe. You take on the role of Tekka to explore various worlds and battle enemies. With over 100 possible fusion combinations available, the game offers a unique experience exclusive to the Nintendo 3DS.
Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story + Bowser Jr.’s Journey (2019)
This 3DS remake of the fan-favorite 2009 DS title added a new side campaign that shows how Bowser Jr. manages his minion army. It united the three characters, Bowser, Mario, and Luigi, as they try to stop Fawful.
Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia (2017)
As the final Fire Emblem entry on the 3DS, Echoes is a remake of the Famicom’s Gaiden. It features two protagonists, Alm and Celica, who can be controlled separately. Players experience dual-route gameplay while exploring a war-torn world. The game also features point-and-click-style 3D dungeon exploration.
Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey Redux (2017)
This turn-based dungeon crawler added new characters, extra endings, and the exclusive “Womb of Grief” dungeon. The game became well known for its dark atmosphere and challenging difficulty.
Radiant Historia: Perfect Chronology (2017)
Another enhanced version of an original title, this game focuses on Stocke, who can travel between alternate timelines via the White Chronicle. It adds voice acting, new art, and a “Possible History” timeline.
Stella Glow (2015)
Stella Glow was Imageepoch’s final project and serves as a beautiful tribute to the tactical RPG genre. The game features turn-based, grid-based combat. Players control Alto, who is trying to unite the witches to stop the Witch of Destruction, Hilda.
Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse (2016)
This direct yet standalone sequel to Shin Megami Tensei IV shows glimpses of an anime Demon Slayer-like world. Players control a Hunter apprentice named Nanashi, who explores demon-infested, post-apocalyptic Tokyo after being resurrected by the deity Dagda.
Fire Emblem Awakening (2012)
Fire Emblem Awakening sold over 2 million copies. It is a turn-based tactical RPG where characters can marry and have children, with the children also becoming recruitable characters. The game also uses 3D chibi-style sprites for battle scenes.
Etrian Odyssey V: Beyond the Myth (2016)
It is a first-person, turn-based dungeon-crawler RPG developed by Atlus. The game was specifically designed for the dual-screen feature of the Nintendo 3DS, utilizing the touch screen for mapping. Players travel to the Yggdrasil tree in the land of Arcania while engaging in turn-based battles.
Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga + Bowser’s Minions (2017)
This 3DS remake of the original 2003 Game Boy Advance RPG added a new side mode called Minion Quest: The Search for Bowser in addition to upgraded graphics. Combat still focused on timed button inputs.
The Fire Emblem and Shin Megami franchises continue to grow on newer consoles like the Nintendo Switch. Despite their success, these ten games are still stuck on the 3DS family of systems, with no remakes or ports up to now.
