Mario Basket 3 on 3 / Mario Hoops 3 on 3

Platform: Nintendo DS™ (NDS™)
Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: Square Enix
Region: Japan version (Mario Basket 3 on 3)
Product code: NTR-P-AB3J
Release year: 2006

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🏀 What kind of game is it?

Mario Basket 3 on 3 (known internationally as Mario Hoops 3 on 3) is a fast-paced arcade basketball game featuring Mario and friends, developed by Square Enix.

It combines traditional basketball rules with Mario-style power-ups, special shots, and fantasy courts.

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🕹️ Gameplay highlights

• 3-on-3 basketball with quick matches

• Touchscreen controls for shooting and special moves (stylus flicks)

• Special character shots (each character has unique abilities)

• Items and power-ups similar to Mario sports games

• Multiple themed courts inspired by Mario worlds

• Single-player tournaments and quick play modes

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🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Multiplayer

• Local wireless multiplayer for up to 4 players

• Supports competitive matches and mini-games

• No modern online functionality remains active

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🌍 Region & compatibility

• Nintendo DS cartridges are region-free

• This Japanese version (NTR-P-AB3J) works on all Nintendo DS, DS Lite, DSi, 3DS, and 2DS systems worldwide

• Japanese text is present in menus, but gameplay is easy to understand without Japanese

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⭐ Why it’s notable

• One of the best-known Mario sports games on DS

• Developed by Square Enix, giving it a unique visual and mechanical style

• Introduced touch-based shooting mechanics unique to the DS

• Well-liked for both casual and competitive local multiplayer

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📌 Additional notes

• International versions exist (same gameplay, localized text)

• The Japanese version is often collected for its original title and box art

• Suitable for all ages