Nintendo's 3DS doesn't launch in a void; it's accompanied by one of the largest early lineups of games we've seen in recent years. The 3DS is compatible with DS games, making its library that much more in-depth, and at least eight games are available as of launch day.
It's a shame that the 3DS doesn't have a signature title – there's no Super Mario or Zelda to compel buyers to grab the console. And make sure to note that 3DS titles will be priced as high as $39.99, 10 bucks more than your average DS title.
We will have individual reviews of many of these games in the coming weeks, but for now, here's what you want most, a primer to some of the other titles in the lineup:
BEST OF THE BEST
"Super Street Fighter IV: 3D Edition"
Capcom's fighting game masterpiece is re-released on the 3DS, and its 3D effects are easily the best of any game available. All of the fighters are here and replicated perfectly, and the Circle Pad makes it incredibly easy to do moves. Quite simply, the game feels right.
There's a great use of the touch screen here, too, allowing newbies to assign special moves to touch presses. Sure, it removes some challenge, but it also removes a barrier to entry in one of the most challenging fighting games you could find. There's also a new over-the-shoulder view that's obviously meant to take advantage of the 3D, but expect to try this once and never use it again.
The addition of collectibles available via Streetpass adds to the fun, although some online leaderboards would have been nice.
"Bust-a-Move Universe"
Square Enix's classic game plays a lot like Snood, except with more subtle control additions. It's highly addictive and easy to get into at a moment's notice, and the visual style is very clean. "Bust-a-Move" makes novelty use of the 3D effect, using it to create distance in the background, but it's an example of just how good a puzzler can be on the 3DS and easily the best puzzle game available at release.
The game seems cutesy and childish at first, but play on, and it grows more fun and challenging.
"Ridge Racer 3D"
If you want to know exactly what the 3DS is capable of visually, you want to play Namco's "Ridge Racer." The opening video utilizes 3D excellently and the race modes all showcase an excellent sense of depth.
The focus in "Ridge Racer" is on drifting and reaching ridiculous speeds in a cross between the U.S. racing sim and a Japanese racer, and the Circle Pad is more than up to the game's specific demands. Four-player multiplayer is also available, and there's an interesting use of Streetpass here: Importing other people's ghost data.
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