We already published the list of best 3DS games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best 3DS shooter games of all time.
With amazing titles available, the 3DS definitely has a great library of shooter games.
So, if you’re a fan of both the 3DS and shooter 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. Fractured Soul
- Release Data: Endgame Studios, 2012
- Genre: Action » Shooter » Shoot-‘Em-Up » Vertical
The dual-screen mechanic is put to good use and handled well when you consider that not too many games have toyed with the hardware setup in this manner.
And while the shooting is decent, the platforming is pretty good, and the emphasis on speed-running with a dimensional twist makes this a welcome challenge for die-hard side-scrolling shooter fans.
#9. 3D Thunder Blade
- Release Data: M2/Sega, 2015
- Genre: Action » Shooter » Shoot-‘Em-Up » Vertical
3D Thunder Blade may be one of the lighter 3D Classic titles in terms of game length and content, however the game itself is a true SEGA classic that never got the love it deserved.
However, 3D Thunder Blade is not just a great arcade port—it’s one of the best pick-up-and-play action games on the 3DS.
#8. Moon Chronicles: Episode 1
- Release Data: Renegade Kid, 2014
- Genre: Action » Shooter » First-Person » Arcade
The episodic structure makes for a relatively short playing time, but the experience is well-crafted and often exciting.
Gamers who already played Moon on the DS won’t find anything different here, but for everyone else Moon Chronicles is easy to recommend.
#7. Nano Assault
- Release Data: Shin’en/Majesco, 2011
- Genre: Action » Shooter » Shoot-‘Em-Up » Top-Down
The difficulty is bound to infuriate some potential players, but the levels are fairly brief and can eventually be mastered.
Apart from some small issues with slowdown and the frustrating tendency of enemies to spawn directly beneath you, Nano Assault is an easy recommendation for shoot ’em up fans, or anyone who wants to see what their 3DS can do.
#6. Nano Assault EX
- Release Data: Shin’en/Majesco, 2013
- Genre: Action » Shooter » Shoot-‘Em-Up » Top-Down
Make no mistake, Nano Assault was already an amazing retail shoot ’em up, but for anyone who’s been holding out on getting the title, the new upgrades should give you all the incentive you need to finally give this impressive shoot ’em up a shot.
#5. Steel Empire
- Release Data: Mebius/Starfish SD, 2014
- Genre: Action » Shooter » Shoot-‘Em-Up » Horizontal
Combining classic shoot-‘em-up action with an irresistible steampunk style, Steel Empire is an old-school delight.
Not only is it a fantastic example of a remake done right, with a polished presentation that feels right at home on the 3DS, it also stands as a great modern game in its own right.
#4. Kokuga
- Release Data: G.Rev, 2013
- Genre: Action » Shooter » Shoot-‘Em-Up » Top-Down
Overall, Kokuga is a welcome addition to the 3DS library and a fresh take on its genre.
While it may target a more casual audience than its predecessor, Kokuga’s unique power-up system and huge boss variety definitely make it worth a playthrough.
#3. 3D After Burner II
- Release Data: M2/Sega, 2015
- Genre: Action » Shooter » Shoot-‘Em-Up » Vertical
While After Burner II definitely shows its ’80s arcade roots, this version has many options to make the game accessible and fun for modern players.
If you are even remotely interested in Sega or arcade history, or just wanting a quick and colorful action fix on your 3DS, you can’t go wrong with this great game.
#2. Star Fox 64 3D
- Release Data: Nintendo, 2011
- Genre: Action » Shooter » Rail
This version of the N64 game delivers new and crisp graphics exclusive to the 3DS version, along with awesome use of the 3D capabilities of the system.
Multiple paths through the game offer quite a bit of replayablity, and this classic game is a must-play for any Nintendo fan.
#1. 3D Gunstar Heroes
- Release Data: M2/Sega, 2015
- Genre: Action » Shooter » Shoot-‘Em-Up » Horizontal
Gunstar Heroes is an absolute classic of the 16-bit era.
Learning the moveset, boss patterns, and weapon combinations may take a bit of time, but if you love classic action, this is a game you’ll want to revisit again and again—and this is the version you’ll want to come back to.
Browse 3DS Games By Genre
See also: Best Wii Games & Best Wii U Games
Are your favorite games on the list?
Deciding which 3DS shooter game is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!
