So, why might someone prefer playing Shakedown Hawaii as a 3DS ROM over the original 3DS game? Here are a few advantages:

: In the system settings, turning off power-saving mode prevents the CPU from being throttled, ensuring maximum performance at the cost of some battery life. 3. Gameplay Adjustments Shakedown: Hawaii | Nintendo 3DS Gameplay

While the synth-wave soundtrack by Rom Di Prisco is iconic, a ROM allows tech-savvy users to swap out audio tracks for their own customized radio stations.

Play the ROM on a New Nintendo 3DS, New 3DS XL, or New 2DS XL. These upgraded models feature a faster CPU and double the RAM.

The 16-bit aesthetic of Shakedown: Hawaii looks sharp on large monitors, but it truly thrives on a smaller screen.

Some reviewers argue that while the Switch has a larger screen, the 3DS version feels more "at home" due to the lower native resolution matching the "chunky pixel" aesthetic.

Because of these tweaks, many fans argue that the —even compared to the Switch.

Shakedown Hawaii on 3DS is the "better" version if you value unique hardware features (3D, dual screens) over raw resolution.

Includes the entire satirical narrative following the aging CEO.

For many, "better" isn't about disliking the game itself, but about fine-tuning specific aspects. Common feedback includes criticisms that the game is too easy, too short, or repetitive. However, it's also praised for its humor, charming retro aesthetic, and the absence of glitches. This desire for "better" usually refers to enhancing visuals, boosting performance, modifying difficulty, or simply accessing the game more conveniently.

The "Cop Cloaking Device" is a life-saver. Scattered across the map are spinning silver coins with a star icon. If you’re running from the law, sprint or drive over these. If you avoid additional offenses for a few seconds, your wanted level will vanish instantly. There’s one located NW in an alley between the Man Beard, Shoe Hoarders, and Beauty Shop — keep that location in mind for quick escapes.

One of the biggest improvements to the "3DS ROM experience" is the fact that the game actually exists as a physical cartridge. In 2023, after the eShop closed, Vblank released a limited physical print run of (3,000 Standard and 3,000 Collector's). This is the definitive way to own the game, as the cartridge comes pre-patched with all major updates.