Since its debut in 1969, Doraemon has been a beloved franchise worldwide, spanning manga, anime, movies, and even video games. While Doraemon games aren’t as numerous as those from franchises like Pokémon or Mario, several standout titles offer fun, nostalgia, and unique gameplay experiences.
Below, we explore the best Doraemon games across different platforms, from classic retro titles to modern adventures.
1. Doraemon: Nobita to Mittsu no Seireiseki (2002) – PlayStation 2
Genre: Action-Adventure / RPG
One of the most critically acclaimed Doraemon games, this PS2 title follows Nobita and friends as they explore a mysterious world tied to three magical spirits. The game blends puzzle-solving, exploration, and light RPG elements, making it one of the deepest Doraemon experiences.
Why Play It?
- Engaging story with multiple endings.
- Fun use of Doraemon’s gadgets (e.g., Take-copter, Anywhere Door).
- A rare console-exclusive Doraemon adventure.
Availability: Japan-only (fan translations available).
2. Doraemon: Story of Seasons (2019) – Nintendo Switch, PC
Genre: Farming Simulation / Life Sim
A crossover between Doraemon and Story of Seasons (formerly Harvest Moon), this charming game lets players farm, fish, and build relationships in a peaceful countryside setting. Nobita and friends help restore an abandoned farm while interacting with villagers.
Why Play It?
- Relaxing, wholesome gameplay.
- Beautiful hand-drawn art style.
- Combines Doraemon’s charm with Story of Seasons mechanics.
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PC (Steam).
3. Doraemon Wii: Himitsu Douguou Ketteisen! (2007) – Wii
Genre: Party / Mini-Games
This Wii-exclusive party game features over 50 mini-games based on Doraemon’s gadgets. Players compete in fun challenges like bamboo-copter races, memory games, and gadget-based puzzles.
Why Play It?
- Great for multiplayer fun (up to 4 players).
- Simple, motion-controlled gameplay.
- Perfect for casual fans and kids.
Availability: Japan-only (no translation needed for gameplay).
4. Doraemon: Nobita no Shin Makai Daibouken (2011) – Nintendo DS
Genre: Action-RPG
In this DS game, Nobita and friends explore a magical fantasy world filled with monsters and dungeons. The gameplay is similar to classic Zelda or Dragon Quest, with turn-based battles and gadget-based puzzles.
Why Play It?
- One of the few full-fledged RPGs in the series.
- Cute pixel-art graphics.
- Fun co-op multiplayer mode.
Availability: Japan-only (English patches exist).
5. Doraemon: Nobita’s Great Adventure into the Underworld (2004) – Game Boy Advance
Genre: Platformer / Adventure
Based on the 1984 movie Nobita’s Great Adventure into the Underworld, this GBA game is a side-scrolling adventure where Nobita and Doraemon battle ghosts and demons using gadgets.
Why Play It?
- Classic retro platforming action.
- Faithful adaptation of the movie.
- Simple but fun gameplay.
Availability: Japan-only (easy to play without translation).
6. Doraemon: Nobita no Uchuu Eiyuuki (2008) – Nintendo DS
Genre: Sci-Fi Adventure
Inspired by Nobita’s Space Heroes, this DS game features space exploration, alien encounters, and mech battles. Players control Nobita and friends as they pilot robots and solve intergalactic mysteries.
Why Play It?
- Unique sci-fi setting for a Doraemon game.
- Mech combat adds variety.
- Fun story with multiple planets to explore.
Availability: Japan-only.
7. Doraemon: Nobita and the Green Giant Legend (2008) – Wii
Genre: Action-Adventure
Another Wii-exclusive, this game adapts the Green Giant Legend movie, where Nobita and friends protect a mysterious forest kingdom. The gameplay mixes exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving.
Why Play It?
- Beautiful cel-shaded graphics.
- Gadget-based combat (e.g., Big Light, Small Light).
- Great for fans of the movie.
Availability: Japan-only.
8. Doraemon VR: Gadget Rush (2021) – VR (Meta Quest, SteamVR)
Genre: Virtual Reality / Mini-Games
This VR-exclusive game lets players use Doraemon’s gadgets in immersive 3D, including the Bamboo-Copter, Anywhere Door, and Time Machine.
Why Play It?
- First-ever Doraemon VR experience.
- Fun for kids and nostalgic adults.
- Short but enjoyable mini-games.
Platforms: Meta Quest, SteamVR.
Honorable Mentions:
- Doraemon: Nobita’s Dinosaur (2006) – Nintendo DS (Dino-raising sim)
- Doraemon: Nobita’s Dorabian Nights (1996) – Super Famicom (RPG)
- Doraemon Kart (2001) – PlayStation (Mario Kart-style racing)
