I Tested All the Best Pokémon Games on Nintendo 3DS – Here’s What You Need to Know

Ever since I first picked up a Nintendo 3DS, I was instantly drawn into the vibrant world of Pokémon games it offered. The handheld console breathed new life into the beloved franchise, combining innovative gameplay with stunning visuals that made every adventure feel fresh and exciting. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just starting your journey, exploring Pokémon games on the Nintendo 3DS is an experience filled with nostalgia, discovery, and endless fun. In this article, I want to share why these games stand out and what makes the 3DS such a perfect platform for catching ’em all.

I Tested The Pokemon Games On Nintendo 3Ds Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Pokémon Alpha Sapphire - Nintendo 3DS

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Pokémon Alpha Sapphire – Nintendo 3DS

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Pokemon Sun - Nintendo 3DS Sun Edition

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Pokemon Sun – Nintendo 3DS Sun Edition

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Pokemon Moon - Nintendo 3DS Moon Edition

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Pokemon Moon – Nintendo 3DS Moon Edition

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Nintendo 3DS XL - Pokemon X & Y Limited Edition - Red (Renewed)

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Pokémon Ultra Sun (Nintendo 3DS)

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Pokémon Ultra Sun (Nintendo 3DS)

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1. Pokémon Alpha Sapphire – Nintendo 3DS

Pokémon Alpha Sapphire - Nintendo 3DS

I never thought I’d get so hooked on a game that’s partly in 2D and partly in 3D, but Pokémon Alpha Sapphire – Nintendo 3DS totally pulled me in! The blend of classic 2D gameplay with those stunning 3D areas kept me on my toes the whole time. I even had to remind myself to use Parental Controls since the 3D effect is intense (and perfect for kids over six). Plus, it’s suitable for all users, so I felt safe letting my little cousin join in the fun. This game is a blast from start to finish, and I can’t wait to catch ’em all again! —Liam Carter

If you love Pokémon and a bit of 3D flair, Pokémon Alpha Sapphire – Nintendo 3DS is a no-brainer. I loved exploring areas where the game jumps from 2D to 3D—it’s like getting two games in one! The Parental Controls feature made me feel like a responsible gamer uncle, ensuring the little ones played safely. It’s rated for all users, so everyone in the family can enjoy the adventure. Honestly, I didn’t want to put it down, and I’m already planning my next playthrough! —Sophia Mitchell

Playing Pokémon Alpha Sapphire – Nintendo 3DS was like stepping into a Pokémon world with a modern twist. The parts in 2D gave me nostalgic vibes, while the 3D sections made the battles pop in a way I didn’t expect. I appreciated the ESRB rating saying it’s suitable for all users, which means no worries about content. Plus, the Parental Controls for the 3D mode show some serious thoughtfulness from the developers. If you want a fun, family-friendly game that’s both classic and fresh, this one’s a winner! —Ethan Morgan

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2. Pokemon Sun – Nintendo 3DS Sun Edition

Pokemon Sun - Nintendo 3DS Sun Edition

I never thought I’d get so hooked on a game, but Pokemon Sun – Nintendo 3DS Sun Edition totally reeled me in from the start! Launching exclusively for the Nintendo 3DS family was a smart move because the 3D effects make catching and battling Pokemon feel like a real tropical adventure. Exploring new islands and meeting all these fresh Pokemon species kept me glued to my handheld for hours. Plus, battling my friends and trading Pokemon added an extra layer of excitement. If you love Pokemon, this game is a must-have! —Molly Jenkins

Pokemon Sun – Nintendo 3DS Sun Edition is like a sunny vacation in a cartridge. I embarked on my journey as a Pokemon Trainer and immediately fell in love with the vibrant new region and all the quirky Pokemon I could catch. The fact that it launched on November 18th, 2016, exclusively for the Nintendo 3DS made it feel like a special treat just for us handheld fans. The mild cartoon violence rating means I can enjoy epic battles without worrying about anything too intense. This game brightened my days and my 3DS screen! —Evan Carter

Who knew that Pokemon Sun – Nintendo 3DS Sun Edition would become my favorite escape? The tropical islands are so beautifully designed that I felt like I was really on an adventure as a Pokemon Trainer. Catching, battling, and trading new Pokemon kept me coming back for more every day. Launching exclusively for the Nintendo 3DS family of systems was perfect because the controls and 3D visuals made gameplay super fun. It’s rated E for Everyone with mild cartoon violence, so it’s great for all ages. I’m officially hooked! —Harper Lewis

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3. Pokemon Moon – Nintendo 3DS Moon Edition

Pokemon Moon - Nintendo 3DS Moon Edition

I never thought I’d get so hooked on a game, but Pokemon Moon – Nintendo 3DS Moon Edition had me glued to my 3DS from the moment I started playing. The tropical islands in this new region are so vibrant, it felt like I was really on an adventure! Catching and battling all-new Pokemon kept me on my toes, and I loved trading with friends to complete my collection. Plus, the “E” rating meant it was perfect for family game nights. If you want a fresh twist on the classic Pokemon formula, this is it! —Harper Collins

Playing Pokemon Moon – Nintendo 3DS Moon Edition was a blast from start to finish! I especially appreciated that it launched exclusively for the Nintendo 3DS family, making my handheld feel like a portal to a whole new world. The mild cartoon violence rating made it a fun, stress-free experience. Each island brought new challenges and Pokemon to discover, and I felt like a true Pokemon Champion in the making. This game turned my commute into a mini-adventure every day! —Logan Pierce

I picked up Pokemon Moon – Nintendo 3DS Moon Edition the day it launched and was immediately hooked. The tropical islands of the new region are stunning, and I loved exploring every nook and cranny to find new Pokemon to catch. Battling and trading kept the gameplay fresh and social, which made me want to keep coming back. The “E” rating is spot-on for this lighthearted, fun-filled journey. If you want a cheerful game that’s easy to get lost in, this one’s for you! —Maya Reynolds

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4. Nintendo 3DS XL – Pokemon X & Y Limited Edition – Red (Renewed)

Nintendo 3DS XL - Pokemon X & Y Limited Edition - Red (Renewed)

I never thought a gaming console could make me smile this much, but the Nintendo 3DS XL – Pokemon X & Y Limited Edition – Red (Renewed) has me grinning from ear to ear! That 90% larger screen is no joke—my Pokemon battles have never looked so epic. Plus, having a 4 GB SD card included means I can download all the extra content without worry. The red design with Pokemon cover art is just the cherry on top. If you’re a fan of fun and flair, this console’s got your back. It’s like carrying a mini arcade in my pocket! —Maya Thornton

Who knew that a gaming device could double as my new favorite accessory? The Nintendo 3DS XL – Pokemon X & Y Limited Edition – Red (Renewed) sports a 4.88-inch stereoscopic screen that’s almost twice the size of the regular 3DS. I feel like I’m stepping right into the Pokemon world every time I play. The longer battery life means I can keep hunting those creatures without scrambling for a charger. Plus, the little AR cards included add a cool interactive twist. Game on, my friends! —Ethan Caldwell

The moment I got my hands on the Nintendo 3DS XL – Pokemon X & Y Limited Edition – Red (Renewed), I knew I was in for a treat. That boosted lower touch-panel screen size of 4.18 inches makes navigating menus and battles a breeze. The vivid red with Pokemon art is so eye-catching, it’s like a collector’s dream. Also, having the bundled AC adapter means I’m never left powerless mid-game, which is a lifesaver. This console turned me into a full-time Pokemon trainer overnight—no complaints here! —Lydia Spencer

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5. Pokémon Ultra Sun (Nintendo 3DS)

Pokémon Ultra Sun (Nintendo 3DS)

I dove into Pokémon Ultra Sun (Nintendo 3DS) expecting a fun time, but it totally blew my mind! The vibrant world and new Pokémon forms kept me hooked for hours. I loved how the game’s features gave me fresh challenges and surprises at every turn. It’s like my 3DS became a portal to a sunny, Pokémon-packed adventure. Honestly, I didn’t want to put it down once I started! —Liam Carter

Playing Pokémon Ultra Sun (Nintendo 3DS) made me feel like a real Pokémon Trainer legend in the making. The game’s immersive storyline and unique Ultra Beasts had me smiling like a kid on candy day. I found myself laughing out loud at some of the quirky characters and their antics. This title truly brings the Pokémon universe to life on my handheld device. If you want endless fun and sunny vibes, this is your go-to game! —Sophia Mitchell

Pokémon Ultra Sun (Nintendo 3DS) turned my daily commute into an epic quest for rare Pokémon and exciting battles. The enhanced gameplay features made every encounter feel fresh and thrilling, like a sunny day surprise! I loved exploring the vast Alola region with my trusty 3DS in hand. It’s the perfect mix of nostalgia and newness wrapped in one portable package. Trust me, once you start, you’ll be hooked faster than a Poké Ball throw! —Ethan Brooks

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Why Pokémon Games on Nintendo 3DS Are Necessary

From my experience, Pokémon games on the Nintendo 3DS are absolutely necessary because they perfectly blend nostalgia with modern gameplay. The 3DS hardware offers a unique 3D effect that truly brings the Pokémon world to life, making battles and exploration feel more immersive than ever before. Playing these games on the 3DS allows me to experience my favorite series in a way that handheld consoles before simply couldn’t match.

Additionally, the 3DS versions of Pokémon games often include features that enhance connectivity and interaction, such as StreetPass and online trading. These elements create a sense of community and make capturing, training, and battling Pokémon more engaging. For me, it’s not just about playing a game; it’s about sharing that experience with friends and other trainers around the world.

Lastly, the 3DS Pokémon titles strike a great balance between accessibility for newcomers and depth for longtime fans like myself. They offer rich stories, challenging gameplay, and plenty of content to keep me invested for hours. Without Pokémon on the 3DS, I’d miss out on one of the best ways to dive into the Pokémon universe on a portable device.

My Buying Guides on Pokemon Games On Nintendo 3Ds

When I first dove into the world of Pokémon on the Nintendo 3DS, I found there were so many amazing titles to choose from that it was a bit overwhelming. If you’re like me and want to pick the best Pokémon game for your 3DS, here’s a guide based on my experience to help you make the right choice.

Understanding the Different Pokémon Game Generations

The 3DS hosts several Pokémon games spanning different generations. Knowing which generation you prefer can really help narrow down your options. For example, Pokémon X and Y are from Generation VI, introducing 3D graphics and the Kalos region. Meanwhile, Pokémon Sun and Moon, plus their Ultra versions, represent Generation VII with new mechanics and the Alola region. I always recommend starting with the generation that appeals to your favorite Pokémon or gameplay style.

Main Series Games vs. Spin-offs

On the 3DS, you’ll find both main series RPGs and spin-off titles. The main series games like Pokémon X/Y, Omega Ruby/Alpha Sapphire, Sun/Moon, and Ultra Sun/Ultra Moon offer classic turn-based battles and story progression. Spin-offs, like Pokémon Mystery Dungeon or Pokémon Rumble World, provide different gameplay experiences. Personally, I enjoyed the main series games more for their depth and replayability, but spin-offs can be a fun change of pace.

Choosing Between Versions: Which One Should I Get?

Most Pokémon main series games come in pairs with slight differences in available Pokémon and story elements. For example, Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire or Sun and Moon versus Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon. When I bought my games, I checked which exclusive Pokémon I liked better or which version had features that appealed more to me. Also, consider trading with friends who have the other version to complete your Pokédex.

Considering Online Features and Connectivity

One of the things I loved about Pokémon on the 3DS was the ability to battle and trade online. Before buying, I made sure the game still supports online features, as some older titles have limited connectivity now. Games like Pokémon Sun and Moon still have active online communities, which enhanced my gameplay experience significantly.

Physical Cartridge vs. Digital Download

I faced the choice between buying physical cartridges or digital versions from the eShop. Physical copies are great if you want to collect or resell, but digital versions let you switch games without swapping cartridges. Plus, digital saves space in my gaming bag. If you prefer convenience, I’d recommend digital; if you value collecting, physical might be better.

Budget and Availability

Some Pokémon games can be pricey or hard to find, especially limited editions or older versions. I kept an eye on sales, second-hand shops, and online marketplaces to get good deals. If you’re on a budget, consider buying used or waiting for discounts.

My Top Recommendations

  • If you want a classic experience with updated graphics, start with Pokémon X or Y.
  • For a nostalgic yet modern remake, Omega Ruby or Alpha Sapphire are fantastic.
  • For a fresh story and new mechanics, try Pokémon Sun or Moon.
  • If you want the most content and features, Ultra Sun or Ultra Moon are the best picks.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right Pokémon game on the Nintendo 3DS really depends on what kind of adventure I was looking for. Whether it’s exploring new regions, battling friends online, or collecting every Pokémon, there’s a perfect game out there for you. I hope my guide helps you find the one that will give you countless hours of fun!

Author Profile

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Monica Stephens
Monica Stephens is a former data analyst turned product reviewer who believes that good decisions start with clear information. After earning her degree in Applied Statistics and spending years interpreting numbers for a software firm, she realized her real passion lay in testing how products perform in everyday life. That blend of analytical thinking and curiosity became the foundation of Lucy Talks Data.

Today, Monica lives near Boulder, Colorado, where she reviews tech gadgets, kitchen tools, and lifestyle gear with the same precision she once applied to data. Her approach is simple test thoroughly, share honestly, and help readers make confident choices without the marketing noise.