The Short Answer: No
Nintendo Switch cannot play Nintendo 3DS game cartridges. The Switch uses a different, smaller cartridge format than the 3DS, and the internal hardware is entirely different — the Switch runs on Nvidia’s Tegra X1 processor, while the 3DS uses ARM-based processors that the Switch does not include. There is no backward compatibility between the two platforms, and Nintendo has not indicated any plans to add 3DS backward compatibility to the Switch or Switch 2.
However — a significant number of 3DS games have been officially ported or remastered for Nintendo Switch. These are separate purchases on the Switch eShop, not automatic transfers, but they allow Switch owners to experience classic 3DS titles with improved visuals, frame rates, and in some cases additional content.
Why Can’t the Switch Play 3DS Games?
Three specific hardware incompatibilities prevent 3DS game cards from working in a Nintendo Switch:
- Different cartridge format: 3DS game cards are physically smaller (25mm x 21mm) than Switch game cards (33mm x 28mm). A 3DS game card cannot physically be inserted into a Switch’s game card slot.
- Different processor architecture: The Nintendo 3DS uses dual ARM-based CPUs (ARM11 and ARM9). The Nintendo Switch uses Nvidia’s Tegra X1 chip. These are not compatible — the Switch cannot execute 3DS software without complete software emulation of the 3DS hardware, which Nintendo has not implemented.
- Different screen requirements: The 3DS was designed around dual screens including a stereoscopic 3D top screen and a touch-sensitive bottom screen. Some 3DS games require simultaneous use of both screens or specific stylus input. Switch hardware cannot replicate the dual-screen 3DS setup.
The Switch 2 similarly does not support 3DS game cards. Switch 2 is backward compatible with Nintendo Switch game cards only.
15 Nintendo 3DS Games You Can Play on Switch
These games originated on the Nintendo 3DS (or were released simultaneously for 3DS and Switch) and are available as separate purchases on the Nintendo Switch eShop. Most feature improved resolution, frame rates, and additional content versus their original 3DS releases.
Monster Hunter Stories — Best 3DS-Origin Game on Switch
Original: Nintendo 3DS | Switch version: Enhanced port with 60fps, all DLC, Japan-exclusive content
Monster Hunter Stories is a monster-taming RPG set in the Monster Hunter universe — you collect, hatch, and train Monsties (monster companions) in a turn-based combat system alongside traditional Monster Hunter species. The Switch port runs at 60fps versus the 3DS’s 30fps, includes all DLC that was never released outside Japan in the original version, and adds two post-game challenge towers. The story follows a young Rider from a village of humans who bond with monsters rather than hunt them. For Pokemon fans who want more monster-taming depth, Monster Hunter Stories is one of the best Switch ports from the 3DS era.
Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate — Largest Monster Hunter Game
Original: Nintendo 3DS (as Monster Hunter Generations) | Switch version: Expanded with new content
Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate expands the 3DS Monster Hunter Generations into the largest content library in the franchise’s history — over 90 large monsters, hundreds of quests, and the Hunting Styles system that allows different combat approaches to the same hunts. The Switch port supports local wireless play between Switch consoles and online play. For Monster Hunter fans who want the broadest single-game content library in the series, Generations Ultimate is the definitive version.
The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask 3D
Original: Nintendo 64 (Majora’s Mask), remade for 3DS in 2015 | Switch version: As part of Nintendo Switch Online N64 library
The N64 version of Majora’s Mask is available through Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. The 3DS-specific remake features are not present in the Switch version (the 3DS remake added gameplay improvements to the Zora swimming controls, save system changes, and visual updates), but the core game is fully accessible through Switch Online for subscribers.
The World Ends With You: Final Remix
Original: Nintendo DS (2007), ported to 3DS as Solo Remix | Switch version: Final Remix with new content
The World Ends With You: Final Remix is the most complete version of the beloved Square Enix action RPG set in Shibuya — a game with a distinctive punk/street art aesthetic, a time-loop narrative about teenagers fighting for their right to exist, and one of the best video game soundtracks ever composed. The Switch version adds a new epilogue chapter, co-op play, and touch control support. The controls are the game’s main friction point on Switch: the original dual-screen DS design required simultaneous inputs on both screens, which translates awkwardly to single-screen Switch play. Playing in handheld with touch controls is smoother than playing docked with Joy-Con.
SteamWorld Dig
Original: Nintendo 3DS (exclusive launch, later multiplatform) | Switch version: Full port
SteamWorld Dig is a short (4 to 6 hours) mining adventure where the player digs deeper underground, collects resources, upgrades tools, and upgrades the player character in a satisfying loop. The game is simple but excellently executed. SteamWorld Dig 2 on Switch is the more complete and recommended experience, but the original is worth playing at its modest price if the concept appeals.
Miitopia
Original: Nintendo 3DS | Switch version: Enhanced port with new features
Miitopia is a lighthearted RPG where all characters in the story — heroes, villains, and NPCs — are replaced by Miis created by the player or drawn from online sharing. The Switch version adds makeup and wig customization options and Horse companions that were not in the 3DS original. The gameplay is simple and more focused on the narrative humor of seeing custom Mii characters in RPG scenarios than on mechanical depth. Well suited for families and younger players.
Yo-Kai Watch 1 for Nintendo Switch
Original: Nintendo 3DS | Switch version: Japan eShop only — requires Japanese account
Yo-Kai Watch’s original game has received a Switch port that is only available on the Japanese Nintendo eShop — it is not available in Western stores. Players who want to access it need to create a Nintendo account linked to Japan. The game is a direct port with HD visual improvements. The language barrier is manageable for players familiar with the 3DS original, as the structure is the same. The Switch port is worth noting primarily for Yo-Kai Watch fans who want the Switch version’s improved visuals.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity
Note: This is a Switch-original game related to Breath of the Wild, not a 3DS port — however, the 3DS had Hyrule Warriors Legends, and Age of Calamity is the Switch successor to that line
If you played Hyrule Warriors on 3DS and are looking for a Switch game in the same vein, Age of Calamity is the closest equivalent — a Warriors-style action game set in the Zelda universe with a large roster of playable characters and story content tied to Breath of the Wild’s timeline.
Fire Emblem Warriors: Three Hopes
Switch-original game related to Fire Emblem Three Houses — for players who enjoyed Fire Emblem Warriors on 3DS
Fire Emblem Warriors on 3DS was a Switch co-release, and Three Hopes is its Switch successor. For players who enjoyed the Fire Emblem Warriors format on 3DS, Three Hopes provides the most direct equivalent experience on Switch with the Three Houses character roster.
Code of Princess EX
Original: Nintendo 3DS | Switch version: Enhanced with additional DLC
Code of Princess EX is a beat-’em-up action RPG with an enormous playable character roster — over 50 characters unlockable through story completion and side missions. The game’s tone is intentionally absurd, the story is over-the-top, and the gameplay rewards the kind of combo mastery that action RPG fans enjoy. The Switch version includes all DLC characters and content from the 3DS era. Primarily recommended for fans of the original who want improved visuals, or players who appreciate beat-’em-up RPGs with roster depth.
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
Original: Wii U, with later 3DS release | Switch version: Includes 3DS-exclusive levels
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker originated on Wii U but received a 3DS port with additional levels based on Super Mario Odyssey. The Switch version includes all content from both versions — the original Wii U puzzle levels plus the 3DS Odyssey-based bonus levels. A puzzle game focused on camera rotation and path-finding, well suited for younger players and puzzle enthusiasts.
Shantae: Half-Genie Hero
Original: Multiple platforms including 3DS | Switch version: Ultimate Edition
The Shantae series originated on Game Boy Color and has had entries on multiple Nintendo handhelds including 3DS. Half-Genie Hero Ultimate Edition is the most complete Switch Shantae experience, including DLC campaigns. The series is a traditional-style action platformer with transformation mechanics, appealing to players who enjoy classic-style 2D platformers.
Sushi Striker: The Way of Sushido
Original: Planned as 3DS exclusive, launched simultaneously for 3DS and Switch | Switch version: Handheld mode recommended
Sushi Striker is a puzzle game where conveyor belts of sushi plates pass by and players must quickly match same-colored plates to build combo chains, deploying Sushi Sprite companions in battle. The game launched simultaneously for 3DS and Switch, making it available on both platforms from the start. The Switch docked mode controls are considered inferior to handheld mode — the game was designed with touch and handheld play in mind.
Steamworld Quest: Hand of Gilgamech
Switch-original, related to the SteamWorld series that started on 3DS
For players who discovered the SteamWorld series through its 3DS entries, Steamworld Quest is the RPG entry in the series — a deck-building RPG with hand-crafted card combat. Not a 3DS port, but a worthy Switch game for SteamWorld fans.
Complete List: 3DS Games Available on Nintendo Switch
| Game | Genre | Switch 1 & 2? | Notes |
| Monster Hunter Stories | RPG / Monster Taming | Yes | 60fps; Japan DLC included |
| Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate | Action / RPG | Yes | Largest MH game; online play |
| The World Ends With You: Final Remix | Action RPG | Yes | New chapter; touch controls recommended |
| Miitopia | Lighthearted RPG | Yes | New horse/makeup features |
| Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker | Puzzle | Yes | Includes 3DS bonus levels |
| SteamWorld Dig | Mining Adventure | Yes | Short; Dig 2 is more complete |
| Code of Princess EX | Beat-’em-up RPG | Yes | All DLC included |
| Sushi Striker | Puzzle | Yes | Handheld mode recommended |
| Yo-Kai Watch 1 | RPG / Monster Collecting | Japan eShop only | Japanese account required |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Nintendo Switch play 3DS cartridges?
No. Nintendo Switch cannot play 3DS game cartridges. The cartridge formats are physically different sizes and the processors in each system are incompatible. There is no hardware or software solution that allows 3DS cartridges to work in a Nintendo Switch. The only way to play 3DS games on Switch is through games that have been officially ported or remastered for the Switch platform.
Can the Nintendo Switch 2 play 3DS games?
No. Nintendo Switch 2 is backward compatible with Nintendo Switch game cards only. It does not support 3DS cartridges. Like the original Switch, the Switch 2 uses a different cartridge format and processor than the 3DS. Nintendo has not announced any plans to add 3DS backward compatibility to Switch 2.
Is there a way to play 3DS games on Nintendo Switch?
The only official way to play 3DS-era games on Nintendo Switch is to purchase the games that have been officially ported to the Switch eShop. These are separate purchases and not automatic transfers from your 3DS library. Some games that originated on 3DS are available on Switch including Monster Hunter Stories, The World Ends With You: Final Remix, Miitopia, and Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker. Unofficial emulation of the 3DS on Switch hardware is possible through homebrew, but this is not supported by Nintendo and voids the console warranty.
What happened to the 3DS eShop games?
Nintendo shut down the Nintendo 3DS eShop for purchases on March 27, 2023. Existing downloads remain accessible on 3DS hardware for owners who downloaded them before the closure. However, digital 3DS games purchased on the 3DS eShop cannot be transferred to Nintendo Switch — they are tied to 3DS hardware only. Nintendo has not announced a way to transfer 3DS digital library purchases to Switch.
Are there 3DS games on Nintendo Switch Online?
Nintendo Switch Online offers libraries of NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, N64, and Sega Genesis games through the NSO subscription. As of 2025, there is no Nintendo 3DS library in Nintendo Switch Online. Nintendo has not announced 3DS games as a planned addition to the Switch Online catalog.
Final Thoughts
The direct answer: Nintendo Switch cannot play 3DS game cartridges, and there is no official method to do so. The hardware is simply incompatible at both the cartridge and processor level.
The practical path for 3DS fans: check the Nintendo Switch eShop for official ports of your favorite 3DS games. Monster Hunter Stories, The World Ends With You: Final Remix, Miitopia, Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate, and the SteamWorld series are all available as standalone Switch purchases that bring 3DS-era content to current hardware with improved performance.
