A nice, simple feature, this one. Come on over and get a taste of how these key Nintendo 3DS titles have made the transition from one generation to the next. We think you'll agree that some leaps are far more impressive than others – almost on par with Xbox 360 and PS3 counterparts.
These titles represent the most direct comparisons available between then and now; they vary from platform to platform, but fundamentally represent the most similar in-game content and design.
Star Fox 64 3D vs. Star Fox 64 (N64) 
The 3DS edition benefits from improvements in almost all areas; the resolution and clarity jump creates a less muddy, cloudy Corneria – and the detail at ground level has been noticeably improved. Geometry has taken a small jump, as has the colour palate, too – though, it appears the game is still fundamentally identical in layout at this stage.
Resident Evil: The Mercenaries 3D vs. Resident Evil 5 (Xbox 360) 
Easily one of the most technically impressive titles demonstrated, the 3DS does a good job of emulating the complex environments of The Mercenaries sub-game from Resident Evil 5. Most impressive is that, despite the drop in resolution, character models are very detailed, utilizing sharp textures, complex normal mapping, self-shadowing and the world itself has an impressive draw-distance.
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3DS vs. N64 / Gamecube 
Although the character models have been dramatically improved - bringing it more in line with the circa 1997-8 concept art, the 3DS version of Ocarina of Time shows more subtle enhancements. Wall and grass textures have seen a moderate bump up; Hyrule field is no longer fenced in with hideous brown 'walls' – instead replaced with staggered hills. The addition of smaller touches, like yellow flowers, a saturated colour scheme and a thicker shield also round out the improvements.
Ridge Racer 3DS vs. Ridge Racer 2 (PSP) 
Disappointingly, Ridge Racer 3D appears little more than a
ported version of the iPhoneversion of the game . However, for the sake of comparison, here's the now-dated PSP edition of Ridge Racer 2. Textures are a little muddy, lighting effects and normal mapping are minimal and there doesn't appear to be any motion-blurring to enhance the feel of speed. In all, not the most visually impressive game so far – but we expect it'll probably play just fine.
Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater 3D vs. MGS3: Snake Eater (PS2) 
Wowsers; the PS2 version of Snake Eater was one of the most visually impressive PS2 games back in the day. Since then (and the eventual release of MGS4), engines have come a long way. There's no question that, technically, the 3DS has allowed for an impressive jump in every area, from normal-mapped faces and subtle light bloom to better environmental modelling on trees – and on Snake himself. Very impressive.
Super Street Fighter IV: 3D Edition vs. SSF IV (Xbox 360) 
Although the drop in resolution has affected clarity, it's clear to see the 3DS does a remarkable job of taking Capcom's Street Fighter IV engine for a walk. The most direct (and sexiest!) comparison is Chun-Li's spot-on poses. The rich, saturated colours, complex environments and excellent figure modelling are testament to the talent at work on this port. Expect great things.
Mario Kart 3DS vs. Mario Kart Wii 
Although the 3DS is clearly a powerhouse handheld, not every game needs – or suits - high-resolution textures and complex lighting. Indeed, Mario Kart 3DS isn't as texturally detailed as the Wii edition, but it instead focuses on bright, bold models, detailed course designs and obstacles. However, the volumetric cloud effects are noticeably better than the Wii version and we're loving the camera perspective.
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