The Nintendo 3DS might just be one of the greatest slept-on gaming devices of this generation. It can be argued that in some ways, it rivaled even conventional home-based gaming consoles at the time. Being both mobile and convenient, it also contained a number of “hidden gems” that placed it as a device before its time. It was a trend setter, a benchmark to what would later lead to a monopoly like hold among handheld gaming devices. Innovating further with future iterations such as the 3DS XL, which has increased the company’s rapport among fans.

It’s amazing that with all of its success, it was originally deemed a “dud” (hard to believe, I know). It was considered a failure during its initial release, despite being well-developed and containing a handful of quality it games. It just couldn’t stick. And soon led to then Nintendo President Satoru Iwata (rest in peace) taking a fifty percent salary cut, in order to save the jobs and keep the push behind the 3DS going. The rest, as they say, is history.

Nintendo hasn’t always been known to make the best decisions. However, I think it goes without saying that the Nintendo 3DS may just have been their golden child, their saving grace back into the forefront of the gaming community.

What’s more impressive is just how much this little device could actually do, that most in the gaming community had no clue about. So today we look at 15 things you had no idea the Nintendo 3DS could do.

15 Take 3D Pictures & Video

via: youtube.com (TheBitBlock)

Making great use of the "3D" aspect of the 3DS, Nintendo added a functionality to the device which allows users to take 3D pictures and videos. Bringing to life not only games, but also strengthening the photographic capabilities of us Instagram socialites. A back camera for standard high quality shots and a front camera to please the “duck face” selfie addicts of the world, the 3DS definitely goes above and beyond its intended use. With the 3D recording feature, users can take up to 10-minute videos, with a number of functions. Basically giving an everyday gamer the tools needed to film an amateur flick - when they’re not chasing after Princess Peach for the millionth time.

While some may say it’s a rather mundane addition compared to today’s standards in handheld devices, it’s still amazing to see Nintendo taking huge leaps in technology, before the cool kids deemed it “popular” to do so. In fact...

14 'Snap Up' Your Shots

via: nintendo.co.uk

Continuing with the photographic features, are the Nintendo 3DS’s abilities to “snap up” your shots. Similar to platforms like Snapchat (Facebook too, but copycats don’t get credit), users can add a few additions to their pics to decorate them with just the right amount of flair. Bubbles, stars, floating mustaches and whatever else you choose to express yourself with on that 30 minute work break (don’t worry, we won’t judge). There are many possibilities available and many ways for gamers to show off some artist knowhow. As an added bonus, the objects you chose to include will also react to gravity. A small tidbit, but its the small things like this that we’ve grown to love from Nintendo.

13 Draw AR Characters

via: nintendo.com

One eye opening secret of the Nintendo 3DS lies in its ability to bring 2D images into a 3D world.

With the help of AR cards, gamers can literally see their favorite characters come to life and interact with the environment around them. Whether it be Mario, Link, or hell even your own “mini Mii” (see what I did there). Players can take the immersion even a step further through the Nintendo 3DS application Graffiti. With Graffiti, users can draw their own image and construct their own augmented caricatures. Giving it characteristics, animations and other added effects.

Just another example of Nintendo adding those nifty little features in their devices that you never really needed, but were glad you had.

12 Mimic/Disguise Your Voice

via gamefaqs.com

When it comes to fun and quirky additions to their devices, Nintendo never seems to spare any expense. We’ve seen mics that when blown into, interact with characters on screen. And who doesn't love tapping to the tune of a certain "red plumber" to unlock bonus content. Nintendo does a lot to include quite a bit of personality in their devices.

One feature in particular for the Nintendo 3DS does just that. Within the Nintendo Sound app, players can record and manipulate their voice. Constructing sound files where they can then save and share publicly. But it doesn’t stop there. Also within the app players are met with a yellow and green help parrot who is just a cute as it is annoying. As it will mimic your voice reading whatever you say back to you in the most fist-clinching, yet oddly satisfying manner.

11 Record A Synth Track

via: youtube.com (NakataChileno)

In the era of SoundCloud artists, making music has never been easier. I mean, without much effort you could turn your cold, dim-lighted-basement into a high definition recording studio using just a mic, a laptop, and some mattresses on the wall to cancel out the sound. Not to mention the hundreds of aftermarket mixers littering eBay sites and free online programs available throughout the net; being the next big thing in music is only a hot beat away. However, with the 3DS, the pathway to stardom may be even smoother than that.

The Korg DSN-12 is the first of its kind to combine both gaming and music into one epic duet. Coupled with 12 synthesizers and a plethora of production effects, it’s the ultimate device for the starving musician with million dollar dreams, but a pork and beans lifestyle.

10 Connect To Your Phone's Mobile Hotspot

via: ocweekly.com

This one's for those looking for a way to defy the internet gaming struggle on the go, where no sign of civilization means a “no wi-fi frustration.” The Nintendo 3DS can actually tether with cell phone internet service through mobile hotspots. Using this functionality, players can breathe easy knowing they can dive into their gaming experience uninterrupted. As long as the signal from 3DS to smartphone remains secure. Fortunately, this mechanic works with both IOS and Android devices. So no matter what side of the smartphone snobbery you sit on, getting access from virtually anywhere is possible. And as long as your service plan is up to date and can support the data sharing, it should be smooth sailing.

9 Tour The Louvre

via: pastemagazine.com

For those who may want to expand their cultural horizons, but may not have the resources available to do so. This next entry may just be the thing for you.

As the Nintendo 3DS - though being one of the premiere handheld "gaming" devices, also doubles as a tour guide for the Louvre Museum in Paris. By simply downloading the Louvre 3DS application, users are greeted with a virtual layout of the museum, along with pictures and audio descriptions of each piece of artwork, allowing for full exploration from the comfort of their own home.

However, if you choose instead to make a visit, the app will then track your movements throughout the building letting you know exactly where you are as well as what exhibits are nearby. Who knew a gaming device could be this handy?

8 Order Food

via: engadget.com

Ever wanted a cold beer or a big juicy burger while enjoying a day at the ball park, but just couldn’t bring your yourself to pull away from that comfortable seat? Luckily the Nintendo 3DS is here to satisfy.

A little-known function of the 3DS is its capability to have food delivered directly to you (move over, UberEats). An awesome way to get your day started off right. However, it should be noted that this is only available at Safeco Field, home of the Seattle Mariners. The directions are quite simple from there. Download the Seattle Mariners 3DS app, choose from the food and drink options, place your order and in moments you’ll be enjoying a satisfied stomach without interrupting your baseball experience.

7 Browse The Net

via: hksilicon.com/

Following a system update for the Nintendo 3DS, gamers now have the freedom to browse and explore the net for Wikipedia facts, memes or whatever nefarious acts you can think of (again, we won’t judge). In addition to scouring the net for "alternative facts" and "fake news," owners also can view videos in both 2D and 3D, eliminating the need for a dedicated YouTube-like app. If you’re worried your obsession with cat videos will take you away from the gaming, the Nintendo 3DS also allows for the internet app to run in conjunction with the game, staying active in the background.

While its internet processing still is a bit primitive compared to newer consoles like the Nintendo Switch, it’s a nice addition to see how forward-thinking Nintendo is in its handheld gaming avenue.

6 Run Streetpass

via: nintendo.com

One of the many features that is deemed a "gem" of the Nintendo 3DS is its ability to use Streetpass. This turns your 3DS into basically a magnet, interacting with other gamers around you, attracting special items and bonus achievements for certain games you may be playing. An example of this is in Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate, where certain bonus materials are unlocked by simply encountering other players on the street, without any work having to actually be done by the user themselves. Not only that, but Streetpass also allows users to play Streetpass native games, and who doesn’t like more content? It’s a great way to interact with others and a reason to always have your 3DS on hand. As you never know just who you may meet.

5 Customize Home Screen

via: http://tinycartridge.com

One feature that tends to be overlooked about the Nintendo 3DS is just how customizable the device can be. Beyond its unique cases allowing gamers to display its outer personality, the inner features also give a personalized functionality that not even today’s iPhones have mastered yet (shots fired).

The Nintendo 3DS allows users to customize the desktop of the device for better organization and convenience, inputting custom icons for apps as well as rearranging the order of the layout. And when things get too “messy” or you forget to swap out the YouTube button for Luigi’s face, simply reset to default and start the process over again.

This is a nice way to personalize your handheld device to your liking, isn’t that what we all want in the end?

4 Transfer Data

via: pocketgamer.co.uk

While the Xbox and PlayStation have built a rapport in the file transfer department with external drivers taking the cake in becoming a popular addition to the home console, the Nintendo 3DS also throws its hat into the race, supporting the exchange of data information. From importing music, to sharing playlists, to transferring pictures or importing game data. What you would expect out of your conventional gaming systems can be expected here, just on a slightly smaller scale. Supporting both Micro SD and USB connection, files can also be transferred between the device and a PC, making for easier transmission of games, videos, images, etc.

3 Take Screenshots

via: techadvisor.co.uk

Taking screenshots may be an everyday feature for most smartphones today, however the Nintendo 3DS allows screen shots to be taken while gaming on the go. Screenshots can be captured and shared with friends online, showing that awesome final kill in Super Smash Bros. or that epic photo finish in Mario Kart. It’s a great tool, especially if you like displaying how dope of a gamer you are (a little conceited if you ask me, but whatever floats your boat). Now, word to the wise, for gamers to utilize this function a live wi-fi connection will be needed, as well as the latest 3DS software update. A bit of a work around, but when it's time to flex it's time to flex.

2 Text Friends

via: nintendo3ds.wikia.com

As we’ve seen, the Nintendo 3DS isn’t your average run-of-the-mill handheld gaming device. It’s capable of breaking barriers past gaming, giving users a more all-inclusive package; a little more bang for your buck, if you will. Another feature that sets the Nintendo 3DS apart from the pack is its ability to send text messages to friends in multiple languages. After signing up for a TextNow account, gamers can send and reply to messages from Nintendo network friends. This also expands to include those not in the network as the app allows for the communication between the 3DS and real phones! Who needs a phone when you can have the best of both worlds right here? All we need is some emojis and we are good to go!

1 Treat Eye Disorders

via: ocweekly.com

Yes, you saw that right.

One of the many unique and rather unmentioned uses of the Nintendo 3DS is the treatment of children with eye disorders. While still debated among many health professionals, some optometrists have stated that the 3DS can be a useful mechanism in analyzing reaction time in the eyes, assisting in pre-diagnosis for eye disorders. A form of “vision therapy for under age youth” according to Michael Duenas, associate director for health sciences for the American Optometry Association, this theory of visionary therapy has led many doctors to the device in every day practice.

Some doctors however have argued this point, stating that prolonged exposure still may cause dizziness as well as other negative effects in children. However, so far studies have remained on the fence in terms a of final conclusion. But wouldn't it be amazing to one day see a 3DS as a primary source to eye care in the future? One can only dream.