Top 10 3DO Games That Are Still Highly Playable

Tags: #Gaming ,   #ConsoleGaming ,   #RetroGaming ,   #3DO ,   #videogames

Michael Wendom

Michael Wendom

Last updated:  2023-05-28 17:52:13

In 1993, the 3DO company introduced 3DO Interactive Multiplayer for an extraordinary $700. It was the first home console to utilize a 32-bit processor, giving it the edge over other home gaming systems. Despite its impressive hardware, the console was a commercial failure and was discontinued in 1996. However, the 3DO console produced some fantastic games, and these are the best among them.

10. Alone in the Dark

It looks primitive, but it's still scary!
What it is: The first 3D survival horror game
What it isn't: Easy to navigate
3DO exclusivity: No
The best version of the game: No
The best feature: Non-linear gameplay
Game info

Alone in the Dark is a pioneer 3D survival horror that paved the way for the genre's success. The 3DO version boasts impressive graphics and sound that help to create a spooky and atmospheric environment. The gameplay is tense and challenging, with players navigating a haunted mansion with deadly traps and horrifying monsters. While the controls can be clunky, they are still manageable with some practice.

Overall, Alone in the Dark is a must-play game for survival horror fans. Its immersive atmosphere and challenging gameplay make it a standout title that helped to define the genre. If you're a fan of old Resident Evil titles, Alone in the Dark is worth experiencing.

9. Lucienne's Quest

Unfortunately, the frame rate is low, but the 3DO version still beats Saturn port
What is it: A traditional JRPG
What it isn't: A long adventure
3DO exclusivity: No, but first released on 3DO
The best version of the game: Yes
The best feature: The only traditional JRPG on 3DO
Game info

Lucienne's Quest stands out with the light and humorous tone that sets it apart from typical RPGs. The game tells the story of a young girl named Lucienne on her quest to defeat an evil wizard and restore peace to the kingdom. The dialogue is well-written, making the journey engaging and entertaining.

One of the game's highlights is its charming and colorful graphics that add to its overall appeal. The turn-based combat system is well-crafted, providing a balanced gameplay experience with strategic options that keep the player challenged. Although it may not be as complex and lengthy as other RPGs, Lucienne's Quest is still the best on 3DO. 

8. Gex

Hopefully, you are not annoyed by the character that can't stop talking!
What is it: A traditional action platformer
What it isn't: A game for those who hate characters with attitude
3DO exclusivity: No, but first released on 3DO
The best version of the game: No
The best feature: Excellent level design
Game info

Gex is a classic platformer that follows the journey of Gex, a wisecracking gecko. He travels through various environments like jungles, deserts, and mansions to collect items and defeat enemies. The game's controls are responsive, and the levels are well-designed, offering a challenging but a not overly tricky experience. 

Though dated by today's standards, the graphics are still impressive and add to the game's charm. Additionally, a catchy soundtrack complements the gameplay and makes for a fun and enjoyable experience. Overall, Gex is a must-play for fans of platformers. The game's unique protagonist, creative levels, and solid gameplay mechanics make for a fun and engaging experience that still holds up today.

7. Super Street Fighter II Turbo

It's not perfect, but it remains highly playable
What is it: An upgraded version of Street Fighter II
What it isn't: Easy against AI, even on lower difficulty
3DO exclusivity: No
The best version of the game: No
The best feature: Excellent gameplay
Game info

Super Street Fighter II Turbo, initially released in 1994, received a superior 3DO port. The game includes various characters, each with its own unique moves and fighting styles. However, it also introduces a new super meter that allows players to unleash devastating special moves. With multiple game modes, including arcade, versus, and tournament, and its fast-paced gameplay and responsive controls, Super Street Fighter II Turbo offers an exciting and deep fighting experience.

The game's graphics and sound design, with detailed character sprites and backgrounds, hold up well. However, it has a few visual downgrades compared to the arcade. While it may not have the same graphical fidelity as modern fighting games and is not tailor-made for 3DO controller, Super Street Fighter II Turbo remains a classic. It offers a timeless and competitive gameplay experience that still attracts players today.

6. Wing Commander III

Some of the best use of FMV in the 90s
What is it: One of the best Wing Commander games
What it isn't: A shallow FMV experience
3DO exclusivity: No
The best version of the game: No
The best feature: The most impressive FMV game on 3DO
Game info

Wing Commander III for 3DO console is a thrilling and visually stunning space combat game that is a must-play for any sci-fi and gaming enthusiast. This game is the third installment of the popular Wing Commander series, and it does not disappoint. The game features a captivating storyline with top-notch acting performances from Mark Hamill, Malcolm McDowell, and John Rhys-Davies. That adds depth to the game and helps to immerse the player into the game's universe.

The game's graphics are impressive, and the gameplay is fast-paced and exhilarating. The controls are intuitive, and the game's design is polished and refined, making it an accessible and enjoyable experience for hardcore gamers and casual players. The game's attention to detail is impressive, and the various missions and challenges will keep players engaged for hours on end. Overall, Wing Commander III for 3DO is a classic and a standout game in its genre, and it's a must-play for anyone looking for an engaging and immersive gaming experience.

5. Blade Force

A great looking game that came too late to save 3DO
What is it: Third-person vehicle shooter
What it isn't: A complex experience
3DO exclusivity: Yes
The best version of the game: Yes
The best feature: The best 3D graphics on 3DO
Game info

Blade Force is an action-packed flight simulator released near the end of 3DO's life. Players control a heavily armed helicopter and execute various missions, including destroying enemy vehicles and structures. The game's graphics and environments are impressive, featuring cities, jungles, and deserts, and the controls are responsive. Players can also customize their helicopter with various weapons and upgrades.

Despite its exceptional presentation, Blade Force has a steep learning curve that may be challenging for new players. Additionally, some missions can become repetitive as they involve similar targets. However, the intense action and graphics (comparable to early PlayStation titles) make it a worthwhile choice for flight simulators and action game fans.

4. The Need for Speed

The 3DO version isn't the best, but it is unique
What is it: A racing simulator with excellent presentation
What it isn't: An arcade racer
3DO exclusivity: No, but first released on 3DO
The best version of the game: No, but it has exclusive features
The best feature: Point-to-point tracks
Game info

The Need for Speed is a timeless racing game that has aged gracefully. Despite being released in the mid-90s, the game's impressive graphics and realistic driving physics still hold up today. The game features a solid selection of cars and tracks, with each vehicle and location feeling distinct and unique. The duel mode is a highlight of the game, providing players with a fun and challenging experience.

However, some players may prefer a more action-packed and adrenaline-fueled experience, as The Need for Speed focuses on providing a more realistic and grounded racing simulation. Nevertheless, if you're a fan of the genre and appreciate authentic racing, then The Need for Speed is worth checking out. The 3DO edition might not be the best version of the game, but it still has many unique features.

3. Samurai Shodown

An almost perfect port of a fantastic game
What is it: A weapon-based fighting game
What it isn't: A fast-paced fighter
3DO exclusivity: No
The best version of the game: No
The best feature: The best-looking 2D game on 3DO
Game info

The 3DO version of Samurai Shodown is still among the best edition of the game outside of Neo Geo. What makes this title unique is its emphasis on weapon-based combat and a "rage gauge" that, when filled, enables players to execute powerful attacks. With its varied roster of characters, each with its unique fighting styles and special moves, the game delivers an engaging and satisfying gameplay experience.

The game's graphics are a standout feature, with detailed character sprites and backgrounds capturing the essence of feudal Japan. Plus, Earthquake is present, unlike in the Genesis version. The sound design is also notable, featuring an unforgettable soundtrack and impactful sound effects for sword clashes and other moves. Although the slower pace of combat and focus on weapon-based fighting may not appeal to everyone, Samurai Shodown still stands as a classic among fighting game fans. Its unique mechanics and memorable characters make it a top choice for anyone looking for something different from the standard fighting game formula.

2. Star Control II

The 3DO port is superior to PC original
What is it: Deep and highly challenging action-adventure
What it isn't: A game you'll finish in a weekend
3DO exclusivity: No
The best version of the game: Yes
The best feature: Deep gameplay experience
Game info

Star Control II is one of the many PC to 3DO ports. In the game, players control a spaceship commander who must navigate the galaxy, interact with alien races, and fight against a common enemy. The game features an open-world structure that allows players to explore planets and discover unique environments while upgrading and customizing their spaceship. With its blend of strategy, adventure, and action, Star Control II offers an engaging and unforgettable experience.

While the graphics aren't impressive for its time, they feature vivid colors and detailed sprites, adding to the game's overall atmosphere. The sound design is equally noteworthy, featuring an exceptional soundtrack that immerses players in the game's sci-fi world. Star Control II has stood the test of time and is a classic among sci-fi game fans. It offers a depth of gameplay and replayability that keeps players returning for more. Furthermore, there's a free HD remake available.

1. Road Rush

You can argue that the 3DO version is still the best one
What is it: An arcade racer with a violent twist
What it isn't: A motorbike simulation
3DO exclusivity: No, but first released on 3DO
The best version of the game: Yes
The best feature: Point-to-point tracks
Game info

Road Rash for 3DO is an intense and wild racing game that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The game is set in California, and you can race on four tracks with up to four players. There are various ways to race, including time trials and pursuit races. The title also offers a wide range of weapons to use against opponents, including chains, clubs, and even a shotgun. The graphics in Road Rash for 3DO are impressive, with detailed environments and realistic bike models. The soundtrack is also great, with its high-octane rock and roll that fits perfectly with the game's fast-paced racing. The controls are also solid, with an intuitive and responsive control scheme that makes it easy to control your bike.  

The game also features an excellent level of challenge. The AI opponents are aggressive and will try to take you out of the race. Many items you pick up during the race can give you an advantage, such as extra speed or a shield. Overall, Road Rash for 3DO is an intense and thrilling racing game that will keep you returning for more.

While the 3DO didn't have an extensive library of games, it did have some memorable titles worth revisiting. Whether you're a fan of racing games, fighting games, or JRPGs, this console has something for everyone. However, unless you are a collector, the best idea is to focus on console-exclusive titles.

Looking back, which 3DO games had the most significant impact on gaming? Have you ever played on this system?


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