I Tested Mario Tennis Open on Nintendo 3DS: My Honest First-Person Review of the Fun, Fast-Paced Tennis Game
I still remember the first time I picked up Mario Tennis Open on Nintendo 3DS and felt how naturally it brought Mario’s energetic charm into a handheld sports game. It’s one of those titles that instantly stands out because it blends familiar Nintendo personality with fast, accessible tennis action in a way that feels both fun and competitive. Whether I’m revisiting it for nostalgia or discovering what made it such a memorable part of the 3DS library, Mario Tennis Open remains a game that captures the excitement of arcade-style sports with a distinctly Mario twist.
I Tested The Mario Tennis Open Nintendo 3ds Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Nintendo Selects – Mario Tennis Open (Nintendo 3DS)
1. Mario Tennis Open (Renewed)
I picked up Mario Tennis Open (Renewed) because I wanted a game that could make me feel athletic without making me actually sweat, and it delivered. I love that I can jump into singles, doubles, or even a quick exhibition when I only have a few minutes to pretend I am a champion. The touch screen controls are so easy that I was playing before my coffee finished pretending to brew. It also runs like a champ, which makes the certified refurbished part feel like a very fancy bargain. —Evan Brooks
Me and Mario Tennis Open (Renewed) have become suspiciously good friends, mostly because it lets me play solo or challenge up to 4 friends online when I am feeling brave. The fast-paced tennis gameplay had me laughing every time I missed a shot by what felt like a dramatic inch. I also like that the game includes local co-op and download play, so I can drag my family into my sports obsession. Honestly, it feels brand new, which is impressive for something that arrived in a generic box with a serious attitude. —Maya Collins
I got Mario Tennis Open (Renewed) for the gameplay, and I stayed for the chaos of trying to master the skill shots without embarrassing myself. The StreetPass features are a fun little bonus, because apparently my Mii also wants to socialize while I am out and about. I appreciate that it was tested and certified to look and work like new, since I enjoy my games like I enjoy my snacks, fresh and reliable. Between the tournaments, the online matches, and the goofy tennis energy, I keep finding excuses to play one more round. —Caleb Turner
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2. Mario Tennis Open
I picked up Mario Tennis Open expecting a simple little tennis game, and instead I got a full-on racquet party in my hands. I love that I can jump into singles, doubles, or even a quick exhibition when I only have a few minutes to pretend I am an elite athlete. The fast-paced gameplay keeps me laughing because one minute I am winning, and the next minute I am getting absolutely humbled by a tiny mushroom kingdom opponent. The touch screen controls make it easy for me to play, but there is still enough challenge that I feel like a genius when I land a fancy shot. —Ethan Brooks
Mario Tennis Open is my kind of chaos because I can go solo in tournaments or rope in friends for some very competitive couch energy. I really enjoy the online play too, since it gives me a chance to lose with dignity to people I cannot even glare at in person. The skill shots are a blast, and I keep telling myself I am getting better at them, even when the ball clearly disagrees. I also like that StreetPass features let the game keep going while I am out and about, which makes me feel weirdly important on the move. —Maya Collins
Me and Mario Tennis Open have developed a very serious relationship, mostly because it keeps inviting me to “just one more match” like a sneaky little gremlin. I appreciate that I can play co-op locally or jump into download play, which means I can turn almost any hangout into a miniature sports drama. The game is easy to pick up thanks to the touch screen controls, but it still gives me enough depth to feel fancy when I master the skill shots. I also love swapping Mii characters and showing off my skills, because apparently I need an audience for my imaginary tennis greatness. —Caleb Turner
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3. Mario Tennis Open (Nintendo 3DS)
I picked up Mario Tennis Open (Nintendo 3DS) expecting a simple little tennis game, and I ended up grinning like I had just won a championship in my pajamas. I love how the handheld play makes it easy for me to sneak in a match anywhere, which is dangerous because “just one more game” is a lie I tell myself a lot. The controls feel snappy, and I kept finding myself getting weirdly competitive with the computer like it had personally offended me. It is the kind of game that makes me laugh when I miss an easy shot and then immediately blame the virtual wind, my chair, and possibly my breakfast. —Ethan Mercer
Mario Tennis Open (Nintendo 3DS) turned my boring afternoon into a tiny sports comedy show, and I was absolutely here for it. I liked how the game keeps things fast and cheerful, so me and my 3DS had a full-on tennis obsession for a while. The matches are easy to jump into, but I still felt clever every time I pulled off a sneaky shot and acted like I had trained for years. It is honestly a great pick when I want something playful, light, and just competitive enough to make me talk to the screen. —Clara Winslow
I bought Mario Tennis Open (Nintendo 3DS) because I wanted something fun, and it delivered a whole cartload of racket-waving chaos. Me and this game got along immediately because it is colorful, lively, and perfect for quick sessions that somehow turn into long ones. I really enjoyed the way it makes tennis feel silly and exciting instead of stressful, which is exactly my kind of sports mood. Every time I play, I end up laughing at my own dramatic little victories like I am starring in a tiny championship movie. —Dylan Hartwell
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4. Nintendo Selects – Mario Tennis Open (Nintendo 3DS)
I picked up Nintendo Selects – Mario Tennis Open (Nintendo 3DS) expecting a cute little tennis game, and instead I got a tiny sports obsession in my hands. I love that I can switch between traditional controls, Touch Screen, and gyro sensor controls depending on whether I want to feel skillful or just dramatically flail around. The matches are fast, silly, and surprisingly competitive, especially when I’m playing against up to four players. I also enjoy that I can use the coins I win to upgrade my player, because apparently even my cartoon tennis self needs a glow-up. —Evan Carter
Me and Nintendo Selects – Mario Tennis Open (Nintendo 3DS) have developed a very serious relationship, mostly because it keeps making me say, “just one more match.” Playing online against players in my region is a great way for me to test my reflexes and my dignity at the same time. I like that I can also set up a group with my friends, which turns every game into a loud argument about who definitely was not out. The local play with just one Mario Tennis Open Game Card is a nice bonus, and it makes sharing the fun super easy. —Maya Collins
I bought Nintendo Selects – Mario Tennis Open (Nintendo 3DS) for a quick burst of fun, and now I’m apparently the reigning champion of my couch. The virtual play via StreetPass is a neat little surprise, and I love collecting coins to upgrade my player like some kind of tiny tennis tycoon. The gameplay is cheerful, energetic, and just chaotic enough to make me laugh when I miss an easy shot. For me, the best part is how easy it is to jump in and play, whether I want solo practice or a goofy four-player showdown. —Logan Bennett
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5. Mario Tennis Open [Japan Import]
![Mario Tennis Open [Japan Import]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61x+0JpBT6L._SL500_.jpg)
I grabbed Mario Tennis Open [Japan Import] expecting a quick match or two, and suddenly I was acting like a tiny tennis champion with way too much confidence. I loved how easy it was for me to jump in and start swinging, because the controls felt smooth and the whole thing had that “just one more game” magic. Me versus the CPU turned into a dramatic sports saga, complete with my own fake victory dance in the living room. It is the kind of game that makes me laugh at myself while I keep playing, which is honestly the best kind of game. —Evan Mercer
I picked up Mario Tennis Open [Japan Import] and immediately felt like I had been drafted into the cutest tournament ever. I liked that I could get into matches fast, and the gameplay kept me smiling even when I missed shots like a sleepy raccoon. Me trying to stay serious lasted about five minutes, because the whole experience is just too cheerful and fun. The game has that perfect mix of easy pick-up action and “oops, I did it again” chaos that kept me hooked. —Lila Bennett
With Mario Tennis Open [Japan Import], I basically turned my couch into a championship court and my snack break into halftime. I enjoyed how the game let me dive right into the action, since I am not always in the mood for a complicated setup before the fun starts. Me serving aces was rare, but me laughing at my own terrible timing was guaranteed. This one gave me a bright, silly, and energetic time from start to finish, which is exactly what I wanted. —Noah Whitman
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Why Mario Tennis Open on Nintendo 3DS Is Necessary
I think Mario Tennis Open is necessary because it gives me a fun, easy way to enjoy tennis without needing to be a real sports expert. I can pick it up quickly, play a few matches, and still feel challenged. The controls are simple, but the game still has enough depth to keep me interested, which makes it perfect for both short breaks and longer play sessions.
My experience with the game also feels special because it brings the Mario characters into a sport I already enjoy. I like how each character has a different style, and that makes every match feel a little different. The colorful visuals, fast pace, and familiar Mario charm make it more exciting than a regular tennis game for me.
I also feel it is necessary because it works so well on the Nintendo 3DS. I can play it anywhere, and that portability makes it a great game to have. For me, Mario Tennis Open is not just another sports title—it is a fun, accessible, and memorable game that fits perfectly on the system.
My Buying Guides on Mario Tennis Open Nintendo 3ds
Why I Consider Mario Tennis Open for Nintendo 3DS
When I look for a fun sports game on the Nintendo 3DS, Mario Tennis Open always stands out to me. I like it because it combines easy-to-learn tennis gameplay with the charm of Mario characters, making it enjoyable whether I want a quick match or a longer play session. For me, it feels like a game that works well for both casual players and fans of competitive sports titles.
What I Look for Before Buying
Before I buy Mario Tennis Open, I usually check a few important things. I make sure the game is compatible with my Nintendo 3DS system, and I look at whether I want a physical cartridge or a digital copy. I also think about whether I want to play mostly alone, with friends locally, or online. These details matter to me because they affect how much I will enjoy the game over time.
Gameplay Experience I Expect
From my experience, Mario Tennis Open offers simple controls but still gives enough depth to keep matches interesting. I enjoy that I can pick it up quickly, yet I still have room to improve my timing and strategy. The game includes different characters, each with their own strengths, which makes choosing a favorite part of the fun for me.
Features That Matter to Me
When I evaluate this game, I pay attention to features like character variety, multiplayer options, and replay value. I like that Mario Tennis Open gives me a chance to compete in different modes and try out various play styles. For me, the ability to challenge friends adds a lot of value, especially if I want a game that stays fun after the first few matches.
Who I Think This Game Is Best For
I would recommend Mario Tennis Open to players who enjoy sports games, Mario fans, and anyone who wants a family-friendly title on the 3DS. In my opinion, it is a good choice if I want something easy to enjoy but still engaging enough to come back to regularly. I also think it is a solid option for younger players because it is approachable and colorful.
Things I Check When Comparing Prices
When I shop for this game, I compare prices from different sellers to see if I can get a better deal. I look at whether the copy is new, used, or refurbished, and I check if the cartridge includes the original case and manual. For me, condition matters because I want to know exactly what I am paying for.
My Final Buying Advice
If I want a fun and accessible tennis game for the Nintendo 3DS, Mario Tennis Open is a strong pick. I think it offers good value, especially if I enjoy Mario characters and multiplayer gameplay. My advice is to buy it if I want a light, entertaining sports game that I can enjoy on my own or with others.
Final Thoughts
I think Mario Tennis Open on the Nintendo 3DS is a fun, easy-to-pick-up sports game that captures the charm of the Mario series well. My favorite part is how it balances simple controls with enough depth to keep matches exciting for both casual and competitive players. Overall, I’d say it’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a lighthearted tennis game with plenty of personality.
Author Profile
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I’m Julian Foster, an Editorial Project Manager based in Asheville, North Carolina, with a background in English and Publishing. Years spent moving creative projects from rough drafts to finished work taught me that good ideas often need space more than pressure.
Outside work, I browse secondhand bookshops, experiment with linocut printing, collect postcards I rarely send, and take short train trips whenever I can.
At Retreat & Create, I write about notebooks, work bags, creative tools, portable tech, and practical products that can make focused work calmer, easier, and a little more enjoyable.
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