We already published the list of best 3DS games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best 3DS action puzzle games of all time.
With amazing titles available, the 3DS definitely has a great library of action puzzle games.
So, if you’re a fan of both the 3DS and action puzzle games, there’s a chance you’ll like this list.
And some of you may already know some of the games mentioned in this list.
#10. Cubic Ninja
- Release Data: AQ Interactive/Ubisoft, 2011
- Genre: Puzzle » Action
Cubic Ninja is a delightful addition to a 3DS market saturated with games seemingly made to take a quick advantage of the technology.
It certainly contains elements that are fun, but you may have to design levels yourself if you’re going to coax them out.
#9. Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Tipping Stars
- Release Data: Nintendo Software Technology/Nintendo, 2015
- Genre: Puzzle » Action
Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Tipping Stars is a decent game
The Wii U version is slightly more comfortable and easier on the eyes, but the 3DS version does have the enormous advantage of being portable, which will make or break the decision for many people.
As far as the core game is concerned however, there is no difference between versions.
#8. NightSky
- Release Data: Nicalis, 2012
- Genre: Puzzle » Action
NightSky is a nice place to visit.
The physics-based gameplay is clever, but the real draws are the beautiful scenery and the ambient electronic soundtrack.
Hidden stars, a locked world and an advanced difficulty lend the experience significant replayability, but even if it offered only a single playthrough, it’s not an experience that could soon be forgotten.
#7. BOXBOY!
- Release Data: HAL Labs/Nintendo, 2015
- Genre: Puzzle » Action
This game is endearing thanks to its charming black and white visuals and its inventive puzzles.
You can connect boxes in a string, forging new paths as you try to progress past obstacles.
And if you’re ever stuck on a puzzle, you can even use the 3DS play coins for a hint.
#6. Mario and Donkey Kong: Minis on the Move
- Release Data: Nintendo, 2013
- Genre: Puzzle » Action
This game is all about looking at the playing field and planning out a path.
Your goal is to guide a Mario-inspired robot to the end goal, but there are plenty of obstacles in your way.
There are well over 150 puzzles to solve, and the laid back nature of the game makes it a relaxing one to play.
#5. BoxBoxBoy!
- Release Data: HAL Labs/Nintendo, 2016
- Genre: Puzzle » Action
In this sequel to BoxBoy!, players once again control Qbby, a cutesy character that can produce boxes out of thin air.
Players must spawn and manipulate the boxes to navigate through dozens of stages filled with hazards.
Completing levels rewards you with medals, which can be used to unlock bonus content.
Overall, any fan of puzzle games will enjoy this box-filled adventure.
#4. BYE-BYE BOXBOY!
- Release Data: HAL Labs/Nintendo, 2017
- Genre: Puzzle » Action
In this simplistic and deceptively challenging game, players must complete levels by spawning boxes and navigating various hazards.
This entry in the series introduces some new mechanics, including explosives and tiny “Qbabies”.
By controlling Qbby, players can manipulate boxes to create platforms, block environmental obstacles, and more.
#3. Stretchmo
- Release Data: Intelligent Systems/Nintendo, 2015
- Genre: Puzzle » Action
Players must push, pull, and stretch pieces of the environment to reach the exit in this collection of dastardly puzzles.
Players can also create their own puzzles and share them with their friends by using the Stretchmo Studio feature.
And although this game is easy to pick up and learn, you’ll likely spend hours attempting to complete every puzzle.
#2. Crashmo
- Release Data: Intelligent Systems/Nintendo, 2012
- Genre: Puzzle » Action
This is the sequel to Pushmo, and is well known for its colorful visuals, cute design, and deceptive difficulty.
The game is satisfying in its simplicity, using basic control concepts to craft interesting challenges.
It’s a game that everyone can learn, but will stump even the smartest of puzzle game players.
#1. Pushmo
- Release Data: Intelligent Systems/Nintendo, 2011
- Genre: Puzzle » Action
Although the game is simple in execution, there’s a deep amount of skill needed to complete it.
Each puzzle plays out the same; your character must manipulate complex structures, forming a path to the goal.
When the difficulty ramps up, Pushmo resembles a complex Rubik’s Cube that will leave you scratching your head.
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See also: Best Wii Games & Best Wii U Games
Are your favorite games on the list?
Deciding which 3DS action puzzle game is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!