We already published the list of best 3DS games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best 3DS adventure games of all time.
With amazing titles available, the 3DS definitely has a great library of adventure games.
So, if you’re a fan of both the 3DS and adventure 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. The Starship Damrey
- Release Data: Level 5, 2013
- Genre: Adventure » General
The Starship Damrey is more like a narrative experience than a typical video game, harking back to retro equivalents of the PC-age in the ’90s.
Rarely taxing, with the only dead ends coming because of a failure to thoroughly explore rooms and find relevant objects, it’s all about the environment and piecing together a storyline.
#9. Chase: Cold Case Investigations – Distant Memories
- Release Data: Arc System Works, 2016
- Genre: Adventure » Visual Novel
Although its branching narrative system could have more depth, Chase: Cold Case Investigations has an undeniable sense of charm and keeps players’ attention through its characters, anime art style and subdued jazz-noir soundtrack.
If the series is allowed to continue and introduce a deeper approach to multiple choice and interrogation, then we could see something truly special.
#8. Detective Pikachu
- Release Data: Creatures Inc./The Pokemon Company, 2018
- Genre: Adventure » 3D » Third-Person
Detective Pikachu might be described as a spin-off, but the visual and narrative direction the game has taken is an incredibly welcome one.
The gameplay can be a little too easy and repetitive at times, but everything is presented within a very solid package that will have kids and adults alike hooked.
#7. Hakuoki: Memories of the Shinsengumi
- Release Data: Idea Factory, 2013
- Genre: Adventure » Visual Novel
Those willing to set aside their preconceptions of visual novels might just find that Hakuoki is a thrilling, engaging, delightful experience.
Gamers looking to try something new may just find this gem will become their favorite book on the 3DS, but those looking for an adventure wherein they can make meaningful choices may find themselves disappointed in Hakuoki’s rigid structure.
#6. Attack of the Friday Monsters! A Tokyo Tale
- Release Data: Millennium Kitchen/Level 5, 2013
- Genre: Adventure » 3D » Third-Person
It’s mostly nonviolent, heavily rooted in Japanese culture and nostalgia and has terrific production values.
It’s not recommended for adrenaline junkies, and the Friday Monsters aren’t exactly the Kaiju from Pacific Rim, but for anyone looking to spend a few hours watching an excellent story unfold, Attack of the Friday Monsters! A Tokyo Tale won’t disappoint.
#5. Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney
- Release Data: Capcom, 2017
- Genre: Adventure » Visual Novel
This re-release of Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney is an interesting one because it doesn’t really do anything that we didn’t see when it originally came out years ago, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
It’s the easiest way to experience the game if you haven’t before, and it’s a great way to pay it another visit if you have.
#4. Zero Escape: Zero Time Dilemma
- Release Data: Chime/Aksys Games, 2016
- Genre: Adventure » Visual Novel
If you’ve played and enjoyed the first two games in the trilogy you’ll absolutely love Zero‘s last stand.
You’ll find the same twisting, twisted narrative, the same satisfyingly tricky puzzles, and plenty more of Uchikoshi’s signature style, and watching the story’s climax unfold after three games is a real rush.
#3. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney – Spirit of Justice
- Release Data: Capcom, 2016
- Genre: Adventure » Visual Novel
This adventure is every bit as brilliant as his earlier escapades, with phenomenal writing, satisfying gameplay, and tons of irresistibly clever courtroom drama.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time offender, no further deliberation is required — this is a court date you won’t want to miss.
#2. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney – Dual Destinies
- Release Data: Capcom, 2013
- Genre: Adventure » Visual Novel
Wonderfully witty as ever, Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney – Dual Destinies is another excellent entry into the Ace Attorney series.
Bursting with humor and new extravagant personalities, Phoenix Wright fans will find much to enjoy, thanks largely to the excellent skills of the localization and script-writing team at Capcom.
#1. Zero Escape: Virtue’s Last Reward
- Release Data: ChunSoft, 2012
- Genre: Adventure » Visual Novel
This narrative-driven adventure combines puzzles, player choice, and alternate story paths for a robust tale of deceit and violence.
Playing as Sigma, you’ll make tough decisions on who lives and who dies while solving tough escape-room style puzzles.
The replayable nature of the story makes it a prime candidate for multiple playthroughs, guaranteed to continuously provide new twists and turns.
Browse 3DS Games By Genre
See also: Best Wii Games & Best Wii U Games
Are your favorite games on the list?
Deciding which 3DS adventure game is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!