10 Must-Play 3DS JRPGs Stuck on Original Hardware

The Nintendo 3DS, a console that's now a bit long in the tooth, played host to an absolute treasure trove of memorable Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs). Its unique dual-screen setup, intuitive touchscreen controls, and the magic of autostereoscopic 3D offered a distinct gaming experience. However, with the 3DS eShop now permanently closed and Nintendo firmly focused on the Nintendo Switch, a significant chunk of these fantastic JRPGs remain exclusively playable on that aging handheld hardware.

While modern consoles boast incredible technical prowess and a dizzying array of features, the 3DS still holds a special place for its innovative design elements. The ability to utilise two screens simultaneously, coupled with the tactile feedback of a touchscreen and the immersive depth of 3D, created gameplay opportunities that are, frankly, hard to replicate.

It's a real shame, then, that so many of these gems are effectively locked away. We're talking about games that deserve a second life, a revival on current-generation consoles where a new audience can discover them and existing fans can revisit them without needing to dust off ancient hardware.

Let's take a look back at ten of these JRPGs that are currently tethered to the Nintendo 3DS, patiently awaiting a much-needed port or remake for modern gaming platforms.

A Deep Dive into 3DS JRPG Exclusives

Here are some of the standout JRPGs that are currently only accessible on the Nintendo 3DS:

• Dragon Ball Fusions (2016) This turn-based JRPG is a dream come true for Dragon Ball fans. As the name suggests, it allows players to fuse fighters from across the entire Dragon Ball universe, creating over 100 unique combination possibilities. You step into the shoes of Tekka, embarking on a journey through various worlds, battling formidable enemies. The game boasts an original story crafted exclusively for the Nintendo 3DS, making it a truly unique experience.

• Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story + Bowser Jr.’s Journey (2019) A fantastic remake of a beloved 2009 Nintendo DS title, this 3DS version was a significant release. It not only polished the original game but also introduced a compelling new side campaign. This additional story focuses on Bowser Jr. as he strategises and manages his minion army. The core narrative sees the unlikely trio of Bowser, Mario, and Luigi teaming up to thwart the villainous Fawful, with the dual-screen functionality of the 3DS enhancing the gameplay.

• Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia (2017) This entry marks the final Fire Emblem game to grace the Nintendo 3DS. Echoes is a loving remake of the Famicom classic Gaiden. It presents a compelling narrative through the eyes of two protagonists, Alm and Celica, whom players can control independently. This dual-route gameplay allows for a richer exploration of a war-torn world. A standout feature is the point-and-click style 3D dungeon exploration, offering a different pace from the strategic combat. Notably, it omits the traditional weapon triangle found in many other Fire Emblem titles, offering a fresh tactical challenge.

• Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey Redux (2017) Strange Journey Redux isn't just a simple port; it's an enhanced version that brings new characters, multiple additional endings, and the exclusive "Womb of Grief" dungeon. This turn-based dungeon crawler is renowned for its dark and atmospheric tone, coupled with a challenging difficulty that will test even seasoned players. For those aiming for 100% completion, Redux offers many extra hours of engaging content.

• Radiant Historia: Perfect Chronology (2017) Another example of an enhanced remake, Radiant Historia: Perfect Chronology centres on Stocke, a protagonist with the unique ability to traverse alternate timelines using the "White Chronicle." This version introduces full voice acting, brand-new artwork, and an additional "Possible History" timeline to explore. To make the narrative more accessible, a new "Friendly" difficulty mode has been implemented, allowing players to fully immerse themselves in the story without undue stress. A new character, Nemesia, also joins the fray, delving into these speculative "what-if" scenarios.

• Stella Glow (2015) Developed by Imageepoch as their final project, Stella Glow stands as a beautiful and heartfelt tribute to the tactical RPG genre. The game features engaging turn-based, grid-based combat. Players take on the role of Alto, whose mission is to unite a coven of witches to confront and defeat Hilda, the destructive Witch of Destruction. The game is further elevated by its high-quality 3D animations and a robust relationship-building system that adds depth to the characters and their interactions.

• Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse (2016) Serving as a direct, yet standalone, sequel to Shin Megami Tensei IV, Apocalypse plunges players into a world reminiscent of an anime like Demon Slayer. You play as Nanashi, a Hunter apprentice resurrected by the deity Dagda to become a "Godslayer." The game is set in a demon-infested, post-apocalyptic Tokyo. Its combat system is a highlight, featuring the brilliant "Press Turn" mechanic and intricate demon fusion systems that allow players to assemble a formidable army of allies.

• Fire Emblem Awakening (2012) A true system seller for the 3DS, Fire Emblem Awakening achieved incredible commercial success, selling over 2 million copies. This turn-based tactical RPG introduced revolutionary mechanics, including character marriage and the ability for their children to become playable units. The game also employed charming 3D chibi-style sprites during its dynamic battle sequences, adding visual flair to the strategic gameplay.

• Etrian Odyssey V: Beyond the Myth (2016) Developed by Atlus, this first-person, turn-based dungeon crawler was meticulously crafted for the Nintendo 3DS's unique hardware. It brilliantly utilises the dual-screen setup, with the touchscreen dedicated to in-game mapping, allowing players to chart their progress through intricate labyrinths. The narrative sees players journeying to the Yggdrasil tree in the land of Arcania, all while engaging in challenging turn-based battles.

• Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga + Bowser’s Minions (2017) This is a comprehensive remake of the 2003 Game Boy Advance classic, Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga. Beyond significantly upgraded graphics, the 3DS version includes a brand-new side mode titled "Minion Quest: The Search for Bowser." The core combat system remains focused on precise, timed button inputs, a hallmark of the series. The dual-screen layout cleverly incorporates interactive interface elements, including the touchscreen which serves as a handy mini-map.

It's worth noting that franchises like Fire Emblem and Shin Megami Tensei have continued to thrive on newer consoles, with titles like Fire Emblem: Three Houses and Shin Megami Tensei V finding success on the Nintendo Switch.

Despite the ongoing popularity of these series, the ten games highlighted here remain confined to the Nintendo 3DS family of systems. As of now, there have been no announcements regarding remakes or ports for these specific titles, leaving them in a state of limbo for many eager players.

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