We already published the list of best 3DS games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best 3DS simulation games of all time.
With amazing titles available, the 3DS definitely has a great library of simulation games.
So, if you’re a fan of both the 3DS and simulation 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. Animal Crossing: Happy Home Designer
- Release Data: Nintendo, 2015
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Career
Happy Home Designer gets pretty much everything right when it comes to decorating, encouraging creativity, and exploring different styles.
It’s sometimes unsatisfying to work without a sense of progression, but taking away progression unlocks means there’s no limits on the creativity you can express with Animal Crossing‘s huge range of options.
#9. Aero Porter
- Release Data: Vivarium/Level 5, 2012
- Genre: Simulation » General
Aero Porter is a brilliant amalgamation of the puzzle game and the business management simulator, though it’s not for the faint of heart.
The amount of information the game asks you to juggle at once will be too much for a lot of people.
Overall, Aero Porter is definitely worth the time of anyone looking for a unique management game.
#8. Pilotwings Resort
- Release Data: Monster Games Inc./Nintendo, 2011
- Genre: Simulation » Flight » Civilian
At its core the majority of the game is still just basically flying around the island, but there’s enough variety between the various missions to keep things fresh to keep you coming back for more.
In the end, the subtle ways that the 3D affects the gameplay, combined with the excellent controls and mission variety, makes for a great experience.
#7. Ace Combat: Assault Horizon Legacy
- Release Data: Project Aces/Bandai Namco Games, 2011
- Genre: Simulation » Flight » Combat
Ace Combat: Assault Horizon Legacy is truly impressive just as it is, and it deserves the attention of any Nintendo fans who’ve either always been curious about this series or just love flying through the sky to blow stuff up.
#6. Tomodachi Life
- Release Data: Nintendo, 2014
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
Tomodachi Life is a delightful and wholly enjoyable game.
Bound to keep kids occupied for many hours with its endless amounts of character possibilities, it seems more suited to the younger generation.
Still, if you are a fan of The Sims and Animal Crossing, then you will enjoy Tomodachi Life in some capacity, be that for the short or long term.
#5. Nintendogs + Cats: Toy Poodle & New Friends
- Release Data: Nintendo, 2011
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Pet
The lifelike behavior of the animals in Nintendogs + Cats is essential to making this such a sweet and endearing game.
The game also benefits from 3D visuals, which give a sense of depth and space to your home and other environments, as well as create the illusion that you can reach right into the screen to touch your pets.
#4. Nintendogs + Cats: Golden Retriever & New Friends
- Release Data: Nintendo, 2011
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Pet
If you are the type of player who enjoys sandbox observation style games, like most virtual pets, this will be a rewarding experience.
Or if you know a young person who wants a pet but might not quite be ready for the responsibility of the real thing, you won’t find more adorable virtual animals than those in Nintendogs + Cats.
#3. Nintendogs + Cats: French Bulldog & New Friends
- Release Data: Nintendo, 2011
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Pet
Nintendogs + Cats isn’t massively different from its predecessor, but its subtle enhancements mean it will prove even more irresistible to dog and cat lovers, and that it towers in an even more colossal manner over other pet sims.
If you wish for a dog or cat, but can’t have one for whatever reason, get this game.
#2. Disney Magical World
- Release Data: h.a.n.d. Inc./Bandai Namco Games, 2014
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
Disney Magical World isn’t going to appeal to everyone, but it’s a fantastic way to introduce its audience to a variety of genres in an easily digestible and family-friendly package.
Disney fans are sure to love interacting with their favorite characters and exploring their worlds, and those who enjoy life simulators will definitely like the variety in gameplay.
#1. Animal Crossing: New Leaf
- Release Data: Nintendo, 2013
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
There’s nothing quite as charming as Animal Crossing, and this version starts by granting you the position of mayor.
As such, you can choose the layout of your village, unlock new shops, and upgrade your personal home as you progress.
In the end, there’s an insane amount of content available, making this a game you’ll be playing for hundreds of hours.
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See also: Best Wii Games & Best Wii U Games
Are your favorite games on the list?
Deciding which 3DS simulation game is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!