3DS Review: Fire Emblem Warriors

Can the 3DS version keep up with the Switch?

Clash with legions of soldiers and fierce monsters as Marth, Xander, Corrin, and other Fire Emblem heroes unleashing over-the-top-powerful Dynasty Warriors-style moves. Take direct control of known and original Fire Emblem characters, issue them strategic commands in the midst of battle, pair up heroes to unleash stunning attacks, and more. Unlock new playable heroes, each with their own unique moves, special attacks, weapon types, and voiced dialogue in this large-scale action game from the Hyrule Warriors team.

I reviewed the Switch version of Fire Emblem Warriors a while back and loved the fusion of Dynasty Warriors combat within the Fire Emblem universe, I was also impressed with it visually and in terms of performance. I was also curious to see how it’s 3DS counterpart would hold up against it, here’s the lowdown…

First of all, you will need the New Nintendo 3DS or New Nintendo 2DS to play the game, older systems will not support it and I can see why. The game looks pretty impressive for a 3DS title, although it doesn’t actually support the 3D feature, which is a little disappointing but not surprising since this seems to be a common theme with the more recent 3DS titles.

Compared to the Switch version, the 3DS version isn’t as detailed as you would expect. It has lower textures, reduced amount of enemies and less characters to choose from. It still runs at a nice framerate however and the game handles just as well compared to Switch. I have to say if you have a Switch then definitely pick up that version, but if you aren’t an owner of the best Nintendo system in years yet, then the 3DS version will more than suffice.

I was expecting the 3DS version to be a watered down experience of the Switch game, but I was mostly wrong. Sure, it’s definitely a downgraded one in terms of visuals and characters, but in terms of content it’s just as full as Switch’s, which is quite impressive overall.

The Verdict

Fire Emblem Warriors for 3DS may not be as visually pleasing as the Switch version, but it more than holds it own and was a genuine surprise to not be a completely watered down version. Either version will more than please fans of either series and highly recommended.

Score: 8.0