Mario Hoops 3 on 3

Matches are built around 3-on-3 basketball, with players moving by buttons and using the touch screen for dribbling, passing, stealing, and shooting. Coins collected during play increase scoring value, and items like Red Shells and Bob-ombs can disrupt opponents. Modes include tournament-style single-player play, practice, and multiplayer. Different courts feature unique layouts and hazards, and continued progress unlocks additional characters, courts, and extras.

Mario

A balanced all-around captain suitable for most team setups.

Luigi

A mobile character with good movement for support and fast breaks.

Princess Peach

Quick and agile, useful for positioning and ball control.

Bowser

A powerful heavyweight who excels at contact play and defense.

Yoshi

A speedy character well suited to steals and transitions.

Donkey Kong

A strong inside presence effective near the basket.

Practice the touch-screen rhythm for dribbling and steals so you do not overcommit and lose possession. On offense, collect coins before shooting whenever possible, since point multipliers often matter more than simple baskets. Build teams with both speed and power to balance fast breaks and interior defense. When items appear, avoid bunching players together. In multiplayer, quick passing can open lanes for your most reliable scorer.

Advance through Championship mode and meet in-game conditions to unlock hidden characters and extra courts.

Local Nintendo DS multiplayer allows versus play without entering cheat codes.

Tips and tricks

• Grab coins before taking shots to maximize scoring value.
• Do not spam steal attempts or fast opponents will slip past you.
• Use heavy characters near the hoop and agile ones for pressure defense.
• Learn each court's gimmicks to reduce mistakes and create openings.