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Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →No. Pokémon FireRed is a Game Boy Advance game, and Nintendo says Game Boy Advance games cannot be played on Nintendo 3DS family systems. The original cartridge will not work on a 3DS, 3DS XL, or 2DS-family system.
Why FireRed does not work on a 3DS
FireRed was made for the Game Boy Advance (GBA). Nintendo’s support answer to whether GBA games can be played on Nintendo 3DS is direct: “Nein, das ist nicht möglich” (“No, that is not possible”). Nintendo Support: GBA games on Nintendo 3DS.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Pokemon: FireRed Version (Renewed) | $164.94 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Pokemon FireRed Version | $149.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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Pokemon - Trading Card Game (Renewed) | $45.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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Zanzoon Pokémon Trainer Guess Legacy - Electronic Guessing Game for Ages 6+ | $27.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
![Nintendo Game Boy Advance SP - Flame (Renewed) [video game]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41W4zdXFe5L._SL160_.jpg)
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Nintendo Game Boy Advance SP - Flame (Renewed) [video game] | $172.54 | Buy on Amazon |
The 3DS family can play most Nintendo DS and DSi games, but that backward compatibility does not extend to GBA cartridges. The distinction matters because some Nintendo DS models have a separate GBA game slot; a 3DS does not provide that capability.
Can a DS GBA-slot accessory make it work?
No. Nintendo says 3DS systems cannot access features or accessories that use the Game Boy Advance game slot on Nintendo DS systems. A DS-slot accessory therefore is not a supported way to play FireRed on a 3DS. Nintendo 3DS Operations Manual.
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#1 Best Overall
- This renewed game will not come with the original case or manual; cartridge only. It has been cleaned, tested, and is in nice condition.
Can you download FireRed from the 3DS eShop?
No current 3DS eShop purchase route is established for FireRed. Nintendo’s Virtual Console overview covers classic Game Boy and Game Boy Color software; it does not list a GBA edition of FireRed for 3DS. Nintendo also ended sales of 3DS software and DLC on March 27, 2023. Nintendo: 3DS and Wii U eShop information.
That means you should not buy a purported 3DS FireRed download expecting to install and play it on an ordinary 3DS-family system.
Rank #2
- Join up to 39 other wireless Trainers in the Union Room for a free-for-all, or connect with just two or three in the Direct Corner
- Prove yourself in the region's Pokémon League while single-handedly bringing down Team Rocket - then open up all-new storylines with unexpected twists
- Bring the Pokemon you capture in Fire Red to the worlds of Leaf Green, Pokemon Ruby and Sapphire, or Pokemon Colosseum for more challenge
Where can you play FireRed instead?
Nintendo’s current FireRed and LeafGreen release is for Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch Lite, and Nintendo Switch – OLED Model. Nintendo describes these as digital software and says there will be no physical release. This is a separate Switch-family release, not a 3DS version. See Nintendo’s FireRed and LeafGreen FAQ for the platform and release details.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Refurbished Game Boy Advance SP
- Flame color edition
- Portable gaming system
Rank #4
- Explore Pokémon Worlds: Guess and collect 148 Pokémon from Kanto to Galar. This interactive game challenges your knowledge and excitement for all legendary and mythical creatures.
- Interactive Gameplay: Experience dynamic questions and engaging interactions with the special metallic Poké Ball, designed to guide you through your Pokémon guessing adventure.
- Comprehensive Field Guide: Your go-to resource, the Field Guide includes facts about each Pokémon, helping you identify and track every catch in your electronic collection.
- Play Anytime Anywhere: Whether indoors or outdoors, enjoy this game at home, on trips, or during gatherings, providing thrilling entertainment beyond the typical board or card game.
- Ready to Play Set: Comes with a metallic Poké Ball, the Trainer Field Guide, and 3 AAA batteries included, ensuring you can embark on your journey as soon as you receive it.
Rank #3
- Number of Players: 1-2
- Collect more than 200 different cards
- Get new cards from Professor Mason
- Challenge other players to collect new cards
What to avoid buying for 3DS play
- A GBA FireRed cartridge: it is not playable on a 3DS-family system.
- A DS GBA-slot accessory: 3DS systems cannot access accessories that use the DS GBA slot.
- A purported 3DS eShop copy: Nintendo’s published 3DS Virtual Console information does not establish a FireRed release, and new 3DS software sales ended in 2023.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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