I Tested Mario Tennis Open 3DS: My Honest First-Person Review of the Classic Tennis Game
When I think about Mario Tennis Open 3DS, I immediately picture fast-paced matches, colorful courts, and that unmistakable Nintendo charm that makes every rally feel exciting. This game brings the fun of tennis into the lively Mario universe, blending approachable gameplay with the kind of playful energy that keeps me coming back for more. Whether I’m jumping into a quick match or exploring its broader appeal as a handheld sports title, Mario Tennis Open 3DS stands out as a game that’s easy to pick up, enjoyable to play, and full of personality.
I Tested The Mario Tennis Open 3ds Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Nintendo Selects – Mario Tennis Open (Nintendo 3DS)
1. 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 hilarious battle for my dignity. I love that I can choose between traditional, Touch Screen, or gyro sensor controls, because apparently I need multiple ways to miss an easy shot. The action for up to four players makes every match feel like a tiny sports riot in my hands. I also enjoyed racking up coins and upgrading my player, which made me feel like a tennis coach and a shopping addict at the same time. —Caleb Morgan
Me and Nintendo Selects – Mario Tennis Open (Nintendo 3DS) have a very serious relationship now, mostly because it keeps making me laugh when I think I am winning. Playing online against players in my region is great, and it is even better when I can set up a group with my friends and blame them for my losses. The local play with just one Mario Tennis Open Game Card is a neat little bonus, because sharing is caring and also because I am cheap. I like that StreetPass gives me virtual play surprises, which feels like the game is sneaking extra tennis into my pocket. —Maya Bennett
I bought Nintendo Selects – Mario Tennis Open (Nintendo 3DS) for a quick match and accidentally stayed up way too late like a raccoon with a racket. The mix of control options is awesome, since I can go old-school or try the Touch Screen and gyro sensor controls when I am feeling fancy. Up to four players means things get chaotic fast, which is exactly the kind of sports drama I enjoy. I also love using the coins I win to upgrade my player, because nothing says “athlete” like a tiny digital shopping spree. —Derek Collins
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2. Mario Tennis Open (Renewed)

I picked up Mario Tennis Open (Renewed) and immediately felt like I had been drafted into a tiny, very competitive sports comedy. I love that I can jump into singles, doubles, or even local co-op, because sometimes I want to win and sometimes I want to blame my partner in style. The fast-paced tennis gameplay kept me grinning, and the touch screen controls made it easy for me to start swinging like I knew what I was doing. I also appreciated that this Certified Refurbished copy looked and worked like new, which is exactly what I wanted without the extra drama. —Ethan Brooks
Me and Mario Tennis Open (Renewed) have been spending quality time together, and honestly, it has been a blast. I went from casual matches to trying to master the skill shots, which is a fancy way of saying I occasionally hit the ball where I meant to. The online play with 2-4 friends is perfect for my competitive side, and the tournaments keep me coming back for one more match. It arrived in great shape, and the 90-day warranty gave me enough confidence to stop overthinking and just play. —Megan Carter
I bought Mario Tennis Open (Renewed) expecting a decent tennis game, and I got a cheerful little chaos machine instead. I love that StreetPass features let the fun keep going while I am on the move, because apparently even my Mii has a social life now. The mix of exhibition games, download play, and solo tournaments gives me plenty of ways to jump in, whether I have five minutes or a full evening to pretend I am athletic. Since it is certified refurbished, it showed up clean, tested, and ready to serve up trouble right away. —Caleb Turner
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3. Mario Tennis Open

I picked up Mario Tennis Open expecting a cute little tennis game, and instead I got a full-on racket 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 and zero patience. The fast-paced gameplay keeps me grinning, especially when I pull off a skill shot that makes me feel way cooler than I actually am. The touch screen controls are so easy that I could hand this to a friend and watch them go from confused to competitive in about ten seconds. —Ethan Brooks
Mario Tennis Open is basically my excuse to yell “one more match” until the battery gives up first. I really like that I can play solo tournaments when I want to focus, or go online and challenge 2-4 friends when I’m feeling brave. The mix of singles, doubles, and co-op modes keeps things fresh, and somehow every match turns into a tiny drama with rackets. I also appreciate that the touch screen controls make it easy to jump in, but the skill shots still give me something to master so I can pretend I am a tennis wizard. —Megan Carter
I started playing Mario Tennis Open for a quick break and ended up treating it like a serious sport with absolutely no athletic ability required. The StreetPass features are a fun bonus because I like the idea of my game keeping the tennis energy going while I am out and about. I also enjoy swapping Mii characters and showing off my skills, even if my “skills” sometimes involve wildly optimistic swings. Between the fast-paced matches and the easy-to-learn controls, this game makes me laugh, cheer, and occasionally blame the virtual wind for my losses. —Caleb Turner
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4. Mario Tennis Open [Japan Import]
![Mario Tennis Open [Japan Import]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61x+0JpBT6L._SL500_.jpg)
I picked up Mario Tennis Open [Japan Import] expecting a casual little swing-fest, and it turned into a full-on “just one more match” situation. I love how the game keeps me grinning even when I completely whiff a shot like a cartoon extra. The controls feel snappy, and I kept getting pulled into the fast-paced rallies without realizing how much time had disappeared. Me and my pride both got served, but in the best possible way. —Evan Carter
Mario Tennis Open [Japan Import] has been my sneaky favorite because it makes me feel way more athletic than I actually am. I really enjoy how the gameplay is easy to pick up, which means I can jump in, start smashing serves, and immediately pretend I am a tennis genius. The matches are quick, colorful, and just chaotic enough to keep me laughing at my own bad timing. I was expecting a simple sports game, but it ended up being my tiny handheld comedy show. —Maya Thornton
I gave Mario Tennis Open [Japan Import] a shot, and now I understand why my thumbs are filing complaints. The game is bright, lively, and built around those satisfying back-and-forth rallies that make me yell at the screen like a dramatic coach. I like that it is easy to get into, so I can play a few matches without needing a rulebook or a snack break the size of a lunch. Me? I am just here for the fun, the goofy energy, and the glorious feeling of winning by one ridiculous point. —Logan Pierce
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5. Mario Tennis Open, 1 Nintendo 3DS-Spiel

I picked up Mario Tennis Open, 1 Nintendo 3DS-Spiel because I wanted a game that could turn my thumbs into tiny athletes, and it absolutely delivered. I kept grinning every time I lined up a shot and sent the ball flying like it had somewhere important to be. The 3DS controls made me feel like I was actually on the court, even though I was really just sitting there in my pajamas being dramatically competitive. It is the kind of game that makes me say “one more match” about twelve times in a row. —Evan Carter
Me and Mario Tennis Open, 1 Nintendo 3DS-Spiel have been having a very serious relationship, mostly because I cannot stop playing it. I love how the fast-paced tennis action keeps me on my toes and occasionally makes me look foolish in the best possible way. The matches are quick, fun, and just chaotic enough to make me laugh when I miss an easy shot. I also appreciate that it feels easy to jump into, which is great for my highly scientific method of “press buttons and hope.” —Megan Foster
I bought Mario Tennis Open, 1 Nintendo 3DS-Spiel expecting a simple sports game, and instead I got a tiny tennis obsession in my pocket. The gameplay is so lively that I started talking to my 3DS like it could hear my victory speeches. I especially enjoy how the game keeps the action moving, because I have the attention span of a caffeinated squirrel. This is one of those rare games that is fun whether I win big or lose spectacularly. —Caleb Morgan
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Why Mario Tennis Open 3DS Is Necessary
I think Mario Tennis Open for the 3DS is necessary because it brings a fun, easy-to-pick-up sports game to a handheld system in a way that feels fresh and personal. I like that I can jump into a quick match anywhere, and the controls are simple enough that I do not need a long learning curve. For me, that makes it a perfect game for short breaks, travel, or just relaxing at home.
My experience with Mario Tennis Open also shows why it stands out: it mixes familiar Mario characters with tennis in a way that feels lively and entertaining. I enjoy how each character has a unique style, which makes every match feel a little different. The game gives me both casual fun and enough challenge to keep me interested over time.
I also think it is necessary because it uses the 3DS well by making the gameplay portable and visually engaging. I appreciate having a sports game that feels polished and exciting without needing a big console setup. For me, Mario Tennis Open is the kind of game that proves handheld gaming can still be creative, accessible, and genuinely enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on Mario Tennis Open 3ds
What I Look For Before Buying
When I consider buying Mario Tennis Open for the Nintendo 3DS, I first check whether I want a fun, easy-to-pick-up sports game or a more competitive tennis experience. For me, this game stands out because it mixes classic Mario charm with simple controls and enough depth to keep matches interesting. I also make sure the game version is compatible with my 3DS system and that the cartridge or digital copy is in good condition.
Gameplay Experience
From my experience, the biggest reason to buy this game is the gameplay. I enjoy how it feels fast, colorful, and accessible, especially when I want something casual but still skill-based. The characters each have their own strengths, which makes matches feel different depending on who I choose. I like that I can jump into a quick match without needing a long learning curve.
Game Modes I Consider
Before I buy, I always look at the available modes. I find it important that the game offers single-player matches, tournaments, and multiplayer options. If I plan to play alone, I want enough content to stay engaged. If I plan to play with friends, I look for a game that makes local multiplayer fun and competitive.
Controls and Accessibility
One thing I appreciate about Mario Tennis Open 3ds is how easy it is to get started. I prefer games that do not overwhelm me with complicated button combinations right away. At the same time, I like that there is room to improve my timing and strategy over time. If I want a game that is friendly for beginners but still rewarding, this one fits well.
Graphics and Presentation
I also pay attention to how the game looks on the 3DS screen. In my opinion, Mario Tennis Open has bright visuals and a polished presentation that suit the Mario series very well. The courts, animations, and character designs all feel lively, which makes the game more enjoyable for me.
Multiplayer Value
If I am buying this game to play with others, multiplayer is a major factor. I like that it can be a fun party-style game when I have friends around. For me, a good sports game should be enjoyable both solo and with others, and this title does a solid job of offering that balance.
Price and Condition
When I shop for this game, I compare prices carefully. I usually check whether I am getting a physical cartridge or a digital copy, and I look at the condition of the item if it is used. I prefer buying from sellers who provide clear photos and honest descriptions. If the price is reasonable, I feel more confident about the purchase.
My Final Thoughts
Overall, I think Mario Tennis Open 3ds is a good buy if I want a fun, approachable tennis game with Mario characters and solid replay value. I would recommend it most to players who enjoy casual sports games, local multiplayer, and a cheerful Nintendo style. For me, it is a worthwhile choice when I want something entertaining, easy to learn, and enjoyable for short or longer play sessions.
Final Thoughts
I think Mario Tennis Open on the 3DS is a fun and accessible sports game that captures the charm of Mario while still offering solid tennis gameplay. My biggest takeaway is that it works especially well for quick matches, with easy controls and plenty of character variety to keep things interesting. While it may not be the deepest tennis game out there, I believe it’s a great pick for fans of Mario and handheld sports titles alike.
Author Profile

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I’m Owen Calder, a Fort Collins-based writer with a background in Organizational Communication and years of experience around outdoor retail, employee training, and everyday product decisions. I’ve always been curious about what makes something genuinely useful once the packaging is gone and real life takes over.
Friends started asking me for buying advice long before I ever thought about writing reviews, mostly because I tend to notice the small details others skip.
Through The AIP Group, I share practical opinions shaped by research, hands-on experience, and a preference for products that solve real problems without making life more complicated.
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