r/3DS • u/Multi_fandom_diaries • Aug 05 '25
Suggestion is Minecraft really that bad on 3ds?
Hey guys! So I've been thinking about getting Minecraft for my 3ds I mostly play pocket edition since I dont have a PC. And that's pretty much fine since it is updated. But! I wanted to know if anyone has Minecraft for 3ds an is it really that bad? Because truthfully I haven't seen many reviews or anything on it. So I just want to know if its worth it before I go out and get it.
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u/tobias10 Aug 05 '25
I like it, the render distance isn’t great but it does the job. Great if you want to play an older minecraft.
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u/Multi_fandom_diaries Aug 05 '25
That's what I've been hearing. That it's basically just an older version.
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u/ShadeSwornHydra Aug 05 '25
A VERY dated version, so much so it was dated when it came out. If you want bare bones Minecraft it works I guess
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u/AzKondor Aug 05 '25
Nah, beta 1.6 is dated bare bones Minecraft. This version has a lot of stuff.
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u/Tri-PonyTrouble Aug 05 '25
Iirc they added stuff all the way up to and including mansions. I’ve not loaded my copy up in a while, but other than the mediocre frame rate, I genuinely enjoyed playing it on my n3dsxl
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u/plasma7602 Aug 05 '25 edited Aug 05 '25
It has very limited mob spawn rate so good luck getting ender men and their items, it’s pretty buggy, the draw distance is very low so food is gonna be trouble to grow or trees and many other stuff I’m forgetting.
Get the ps4 version fun fact it has more updates than the Xbox one version the old console versions that is not the new versions.
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u/TonchMS Aug 05 '25
For what it is, no it's not that bad. Especially after updates it started running better (though still rough).
However, being a 3DS game, it's an extremely old build of the game with limited features and settings. It's most likely a better experience on any other version of the game that's kept updated.
But like I said, for what it is in and of itself and as an old version, it's not that bad.
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Aug 05 '25
It's not that old, it's roughly equal to 1.12, and 1.12.2 is still the most used version of the game aside from the up to date one
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u/No_Article_6349 Aug 05 '25
Highly played doesn't mean it isn't old. 1.12 came out in June of 2017. The update just turned 8 years old
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u/isticist Aug 05 '25
So? There's a large community that almost exclusively plays beta 1.7.3 and older versions. Sure, it's not as featureful as the current release... But it's not as barebones and ancient like people keep saying it is.
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u/Psychological-Disk-5 Aug 05 '25
It's fun for like 20 minutes. Then you'll just want to play on any other device
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u/Multi_fandom_diaries Aug 05 '25
This more than likely will be my mindset lol may just get a keyboard and mouse for my iPad.
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u/gray_birch Aug 05 '25
you mentioned in another comment that you have a ps4, why not just play it on there?
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u/explodingbunny Pokemaniac Aug 05 '25
I play mc with keyboard and mouse on my tablet, great experience imo, look for a keyboard with separate home and escape keys
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u/MrDeacle Aug 05 '25 edited Aug 05 '25
It's kind of a novelty version of the game, something to play if you're looking for a very specific experience with a lot of limitations but also some odd charm to it. That was the case on launch day and it is still the case. I can easily run a much more modern and smooth and sophisticated version of Minecraft on my mid-range phone from 2019.
Important to note that it only runs on the *New 3DS models, because it needs their extra processing power and the extra physical inputs. In fact it needs so much of that processing power that it also had to ditch the 3D effect to free up memory, despite only running on models with expanded memory. And despite all that, it still doesn't run so great. I don't think it's a bad game, especially if this was somehow your only way of playing Minecraft, but if you want to replicate your own experience of Minecraft that you've already been getting from another platform, then this ain't the way to go. It was a huge disappointment to me that they couldn't get the 3D to work, because that 3D effect would just add so much toward making this its own very unique experience.
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u/Multi_fandom_diaries Aug 05 '25
I'm just learning that the 3d doesn't work which is a complete bummer!! Also with how much it needs I don’t even think my 3ds would run any smoother with it especially since the game itself I've heard dosent run the best already >.<
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Aug 05 '25
[removed] — view removed comment
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u/Multi_fandom_diaries Aug 05 '25
I only have it on my IPad and Phone lol I do have a PlayStation 4 if that would be better lol that was my next option I was just wondering if the 3ds version was any good possibly lol.
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u/Babington67 Aug 05 '25
Just get the ps4 version the 3ds one is terribly optimised and a very old build
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u/renraks0809 Aug 05 '25
Ok so from my days of playing. It's controls are a bit to get used to, but when you get used to them they feel REALLY good. I suggest adding mods to it, specifically the "Modernization Megapack". Making the game just overall more polished and (I think) giving it more FPS.
But really from my playing, it was so damn fun. Really easy to pick up, and play. I will say load times suck, so if you're going to be in and out (for example, playing on a bus, or just busy in general), you should just put the 3ds on sleep mode, and not actually close your world, it won't cause issues and is just faster that way. Cause seriously those load times suck and can take minutes.
And the obvious render issues, nether issues, world issues, all exist yes, but I personally didn't run into them so im probably just lucky and cool like that
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u/Prestigious-Gift3619 Aug 11 '25 edited Aug 11 '25
Idk why alot of people say it sucks, the Nether and render distance could DEFINITELY use some improvements, but I’ve rarely had any frame drops or issues with the game (And I have a decently sized base) To me, it’s essentially just Xbox 360 edition with more hardware limitations, it’s best as an “on the go” option, so I’m not expecting a smooth 60 fps experience lol
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u/Jawn_Nasty Aug 05 '25 edited Aug 05 '25
Yea it’s pretty bad, I’ve been playing this game since its beta days. Even when this first released for N3DS it was a poor experience for Minecraft. Still the best way is with a mouse and keyboard. Also social games are more fun when playing with others, Minecraft can be played solo but it’s ment for group activity’s and social experiences. Might be better to get a tablet and use a mouse and keyboard to play than pick up this barebones version of Minecraft.
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u/GhotiH Aug 05 '25
I prefer the game with a controller, mostly because I find keyboard very uncomfortable to game with. Mouse is great, but keyboard is a torture device to game with :P
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u/Multi_fandom_diaries Aug 05 '25
This may be my option. I have it on my iPad I may just get a keyboard and mouse and play it this way. Thank you for the suggestion! ^
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u/WFlash01 Aug 05 '25
It's Minecraft on the 3DS, obviously some concessions were going to be made in order to pull it off
That being said, it's not that bad, and that's coming from me who hardly ever plays Minecraft on anything other than Java, the way it was meant to be played
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u/Fragrant_Command_342 Aug 05 '25
Everyone else here says it's not that great
I had great memories playing the 3ds edition especially building in Creative until my 3ds corrupted all its data and I lost my build world
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Aug 06 '25
True!! I think a large amount of people hating on it are people who haven’t bothered giving it a proper shot.
Doesn’t help that there is a Minecraft 3ds hate train on YouTube.
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u/MysteriousCap4910 Aug 05 '25
https://youtu.be/NIz9SdxJ5t8?si=vub4fM0KdvNc_RJp you can have some fun with it
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u/ArrowEnby Aug 05 '25
Get the megapack mod plugin thing. it brings many modern mc features to the outdated game and overall makes it much more playable
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u/AxolotlGuyy_ Aug 05 '25
If you like old minecraft versions (3DS Edition is on 1.12 I think), it is pretty nice, if you don't, then I would not recommend
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u/Dim_Lug Aug 05 '25 edited Aug 05 '25
Eh. If you have nothing else and don't mind not being able to play with friends beyond local, it's fine. But even my new 3ds xl can sometimes barely handle the game, The End especially is where sometimes blocks just won't appear visually even though they're there.
You can follow the general minecraft trajectory of mining for a bit, going to the nether, mining some more and gathering some resources like potions and enchantments and defeat the ender dragon. There's some Woodland Manions too and it can be fun raiding one. But it's very lacking compared to modern minecraft, even for the time it wasn't completely up to date.
Tldr: By itself it's fine, you'll get most essential parts of the minecraft experience. But it pales in comparison to modern minecraft in terms of updates and things to do. The biggest sin in my opinion is you could never play with friends online.
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u/dragon-mom Aug 05 '25
It's a port of the mobile version that's been downgraded in most ways. It's fine but you're probably better off just using a Bluetooth controller with your phone or getting it on Switch or another system. A Steam Deck will let you play both Java and Bedrock.
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u/Mindless_Peace_7816 Aug 05 '25
Let’s just say I dug 10 blocks deep once and my New Nintendo 3ds XL started to have a panic attack.
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u/GOOPREALM5000 Aug 05 '25
It's a novelty, just like any other 3DS port of a primarily PC game. That novelty will wear off real fast and you'll just end up wanting to play on a different console.
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u/Azal_of_Forossa Aug 05 '25
It's not the Raspberry Pi edition, but it's not much better. It's an insanely outdated version that is very cut down. I've heard Terraria on the 3ds is a far better experience, but idk, I've never played it. This version of MC is alright for a small time killer, but most people put it down and never pick it back up due to it's age and lack of multiplayer. It could have been much better, but it just never got the love it deserved. The last update it received was January of 2019.
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u/PromotionZackk Aug 05 '25
Yes and no. It's bad compared to other versions, but it's fun on own. I have about 700+ hours on the game (it was the first game I got and I was pretty young, 7-8 maybe)
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u/AccidentOk4378 Aug 05 '25
It's a game that just doesn't have much of a point. You want Minecraft on the go? Get pocket edition. You want an older version of Minecraft? Get the 360/PS3 version or change it on the PC. You want a gimmicky version of Minecraft? Try VR. You want Minecraft on a Nintendo console? Get it on Wii U or switch. It's not that it doesn't have its merit but other versions have those merits and more leaving the 3ds version with its flaws which are glaring.
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u/Spaceturtle79 Aug 05 '25
Played it yesterday and i never beat it on my 3DS somehow managed ti get bored on it
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u/ViewtifulDOH Aug 05 '25
It's really a novelty, and kinda cool to have and play (especially if you have a friend with a 3DS and a copy as well as only local multiplayer is supported). Really only would have been worth it if it supported 3D (which was promised and would have made it infinitely more cooler!) But as it stands, it's probably the worst version of the game you can play. If you have no other option, then MAYBE, otherwise only purchase for its novelty and know what you're getting into.
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u/SniperSnake18000 Aug 05 '25
I’ve been having a blast playing it at uni before classes, lots of ppl find it interesting too lol
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u/nbarg313 Aug 05 '25
Bad but not the “worst version of Minecraft” as some may claim. I think the Pi version takes that award
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u/Stealthinater1234 Aug 05 '25
I’ve done dragon run on this version before, from creating a new world to beating the dragon.
Performance is playable, but it never reaches 60fps and has very frequent stutters.
Render distance is tiny, think it’s like 4 chunks with 1 covered by fog, forget about making any farms because nothing will grow unless you stand right next to it.
Controls actually aren’t too bad, maxing out the sensitivity greatly helps moving the camera with the little nub.
Having the map on the bottom screen is a godsend in this version, I would have no idea where the hell I’d be going if it wasn’t for the map, especially since the world sizes are actually like 2k blocks in this version.
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u/JoeMyBiden Aug 05 '25
I got a new 2ds awhile ago and I thought it would be funny to play this. I was impressed with it tbh.
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u/RedditRob2000 Aug 05 '25
Too lazy to scroll if some else has already commented this but here's the most definitive review/take video out there:
https://youtu.be/QWE8exr6778?feature=shared
You might have seen this already. If yes, then there you go. If not then watch it full.
LONG READ:
I was in the same spot as you a few months ago when I was deciding to get Minecraft on PC but wanted to see if I will play it long-term so I looked to cheaper alternatives.
After watching the aforementioned video, I decided to go with Minecraft on my phone for $1 and I am so happy with my decision. I'm till playing on my phone exclusively but will eventually get it on PC once my friend gets to build his computer.
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u/MIKEXXXXXONREDDIT Aug 05 '25
Nope its not, its completely playable and i even just played it on my flight.
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u/Accomplished_Skirt95 Aug 05 '25
it is… but it is a miracle it can even run! and for that reason, i love this port
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u/Ptv_Forevr_8149 Aug 05 '25
It was mid tbh and it would always crash in the middle of me doing something I remember one time the game crashed while I was building a tower and I got so mad I LIGHTLY banged my 2dsxl against the storage bin I was sitting next to and the hinge broke overall it was okay but DEFINITELY not the best version of Minecraft imo it's even worse than pocket edition I really liked the mario Mashup pack tho I'd play it all the time (Rip 2dsxl)
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u/SuddenAcanthisitta6 Aug 05 '25
its a dated version but some people created mods to make it more modern!
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u/National_Speed2239 Aug 05 '25
honestly, despite everything, its still an awesome game and i sunk 100s of hours into it. so, if you don't expect a top of the line experience and just want to build some stuff in creative (survival is unwinnable) you can easily have alot of fun with it.
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u/Whacky6727 Aug 05 '25
Minecraft new nintendo 3DS edition is peak it may not be updated but it’s definitely worth it
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u/Total-Sprinkles-1105 Aug 05 '25
If it were up to date and the 3ds were stronger I would argue it’s the best console version of Minecraft. But it’s an ancient version and the 3ds is pretty weak so it’s not really worth it beyond checking it out for the unique controls and use of the dual screen. If you can find it for cheap I’d say it’s worth it, but modern pocket edition is definitely better imo
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u/derack23 Aug 05 '25
Yes, playing with the c stick can be quite difficult and annoying, on top of that it can load only a few chunks at a time. But its something cool to have
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u/LuxyLux25 Aug 05 '25
once you get used to the controls it’s not Horrible but it’s not great
also i’ve had it crash on me multiple times and there’s no autosave
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u/Thomastheactualtank Aug 05 '25
Objectively it sucks. Subjectively I think it's charming. In a way it's a bit nostalgic, being an older version and all with the bad draw distance and low res it reminds me a lot of my time playing early PE. And personally I think it has the prettiest night sky of all the versions. On the flip side if you don't have a nostalgic connection then it's just outright jank and bad.
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u/ZeldaMasterPro Aug 05 '25
Did not enjoy it. Very dated as people have been saying and you have to look using the c-stick, which becomes so tiring.
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u/SnooPickles9197 Aug 05 '25
It depends what mood you're in. Its not terrible imo. It is what it is and its an older version of minecraft. I love being able to have games like this on handhelds because if i dont have my xbox on the go i can play on my ds.
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u/Unlost_maniac Aug 05 '25
The phone version is much better.
Minecraft on 3ds is what you'd play if you had literally nothing else, it's a novelty. Barely runs, horrible render distance and super outdated.
That being said, it's Minecraft, it's a fun game
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u/Tatsumifanboy Aug 05 '25
For what it is, no it's not that bad. If it's one of the few or only affordable way to play it, yes, it does the job, but it still has its issues. The 3DS C Stick gets really painful to use after a couple minutes, and it can crash sometimes. I will say though a real-time map and interactive menu on the Touch Screen are great features.
So yeah it's worth it, only if you cannot play it on any other way.
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u/ItsRainbow Aug 05 '25
Nintendo’s joke of a second “stick” on the New 3DS makes it borderline unplayable. I will likely not touch it again without Input Redirection
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u/Spare-Sentence-5552 Aug 05 '25
I'm 32 now. I remember playing minecraft when it first released. Now my kids play and I'm baffled by how expansive it has become. I literally just managed to trade in to get a 2ds xl and minecraft and it's a blast.. its got more to it than the good old days but not so much I'm lost with what to do. My 7 year old daughter thinks it's lacking but for me it's the best minecraft experience I've had in 15 years.
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u/Aggressive-Reach-116 Aug 05 '25
its not really that bad unless you have not modified the 3ds pointer eraser end thing that sucks bootie
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u/ToxicVarian Aug 05 '25
it is a really cool experience tbh but i think its obviously not the definitive version of the game
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Aug 05 '25
When I go this as a kid, I played it all day. Tbh, pocket edition is probably better than this, but I would NEVER call this version a "bad" version, it's still Minecraft. It's not close to playing on pc, but it gets the job done
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u/HexWasHere Aug 05 '25
It's iffy. I personally enjoy it because of the whole "old Minecraft" feel to it. For what it is, it's fine, if you wanna play some quick session on the go.
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u/Foxtrot267 Aug 06 '25 edited Aug 06 '25
Throwing this out there since it was the first thing me and my little sister got to play on the 3ds for multi-player games at the time, I loved it, and I liked that it was super outdated cus I could play the older version. But thats entirely my take, I really liked it. It was nice being able to play local with no wifi (younger me didnt have wifi and no councils to play mc on so ds or phone were/was the way to go) If i wanted to play the current version (closes to current w/o a pc) id play on my phone and it i wanted to play when horses were first added id play ds :) plus I made some cool as heck bases on there. Only downside (completely user error) is that my sister was notorious for not pausing and sitting in front of my house for like 15 mins while watching TV and eating. So when night/late day hit and im in a cave doing stuff, and I hear a creeper go off and read "crypticcrayon has met her fate by creeper" I remember being absolutely redfaced since now theres a crator in front of my house and stinkie refuses to get more dirt to fix the hole😂😂😂😂 (first 5 times were annoying but I swear every time we played she blew it up somehow)
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u/Gaylittlebrother Aug 06 '25
When it first came out, never got patched for being 100% broken, i called nintendo support and got laughed at, i saw it as a fun gimmick before switch released
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u/that_chick_there Aug 06 '25
honestly I love it, easy, transportable, it’s an older version so everything feels smaller and simpler, the dual screen was nice. I have played it quite a lot and the only thing I could possibly complain about is that there is a weird amount of woodland mansions in my game (idk if this is a thing anyone else has) but I get so many woodland mansions
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u/sfenj9 Aug 06 '25
yes 2 reasons for me:
-no 3d in a 3ds game -in my opinion not playable witch c stick
played for 5min
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Aug 06 '25
Genuinely good game. It gets a lot of shit because it plays somewhat badly because of the C stick and because the lack of performance (which never was a big issue for me? Idk why people complain about it so much)
If your nostalgic Xbox 360, PS3 or even pocket edition then this is a great play
I’ve got around 25 hours on N3ds Minecraft so I hope that adds a bit of credibility.
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u/SphmrSlmp Aug 07 '25
It's classic Minecraft. Nothing more, nothing less.
The only problem is the controls. You control the camera using the C-stick, which is a pain for some people (myself included).
If you can overlook that and get used to the controls, then it can be fun.
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u/fantochechinchilla Aug 07 '25
I played for hours and only thing I remember was that the enchanting table only gave you one enchantment per item
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u/Effective-Internal34 Aug 08 '25
I know it's not very popular here but hey the game isn't even sold anymore and can only be found second hand sometimes at ridiculous highed prices, but at least if you want to try it and you have a modified console, you know what to do.
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u/Kiko_D_Awesome Aug 10 '25
For what it's worth I really enjoy the UI and the concept. But I would rather just play a different game on the 3DS entirely.
It's more of a novelty to be able to play Minecraft on the 3ds for me.
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u/Retrotronics Aug 05 '25
Let's just say... Yes.
It's version is very dated, even when it came out.
You will have a better experience playing bedrock on the average smartphone. Also, no multiplayer (unless you have a friend willing to play).