Navigating the Post-eShop Era: Redownloading Games & The Legacy of Nintendo’s Digital Stores
Yes, you can still redownload games and DLC you’ve previously purchased on the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U eShops, even after the official closure on March 27th, 2023. Nintendo has stated that this functionality will remain available “for the foreseeable future.” This means if you digitally purchased Super Mario Bros., Pokémon titles, or any other game on these systems, you can still access and redownload them, assuming your console is linked to the Nintendo Account used for the original purchase.
This ability to redownload hinges on the connection between your Nintendo Account and your console. Ensure your Nintendo Account is active and associated with your 3DS or Wii U to guarantee access to your previously purchased digital library. While the eShop is closed for new purchases, it remains open as a repository for your existing digital content.
Understanding the “Foreseeable Future”
Nintendo’s phrasing, “for the foreseeable future,” is intentionally vague. It suggests this redownload functionality isn’t permanent, and Nintendo may eventually discontinue it. There’s no specific timeline provided, leaving users reliant on official Nintendo announcements for any impending changes. So, It’s prudent to download and back up your desired games as soon as possible to safeguard your digital investments.
Why the Uncertainty?
Several factors could influence Nintendo’s decision to eventually shut down redownloading capabilities:
- Infrastructure Costs: Maintaining servers and infrastructure to support redownloads incurs ongoing costs. As user activity declines, Nintendo might deem these costs unsustainable.
- Hardware Obsolescence: As the 3DS and Wii U become increasingly obsolete, the cost of maintaining the older architecture becomes a barrier.
- Shifting Focus: Nintendo’s strategic priorities shift towards current-generation hardware and services. Resources allocated to older platforms divert from those areas.
Proactive Steps to Preserve Your Games
Despite the uncertainty, there are steps you can take to secure your access to your games:
- Redownload Now: Redownload all purchased games and DLC to your 3DS and Wii U.
- Back Up Your SD Card: Create a backup image of your 3DS SD card or Wii U storage. This safeguards your digital library in case of hardware failure or unforeseen circumstances.
- Stay Informed: Monitor official Nintendo channels for updates regarding the future of the eShop and redownload functionality.
The Broader Implications of the eShop Closure
The eShop closure is significant for several reasons:
- Digital Preservation: Many games available digitally on the 3DS and Wii U were never released physically. The eShop closure makes these titles harder to access, raising concerns about digital preservation. The Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ champions this.
- Accessibility: Some games were more affordable in digital format, making them accessible to a wider audience. The eShop closure limits these options.
- Legacy: The 3DS and Wii U boasted unique libraries of games. Closing the eShop marks a definitive end to an era in Nintendo’s history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Will online services for 3DS/Wii U games also shut down?
Yes, in early April 2024, online play and other functionality that uses online communication will end for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software. This includes online co-operative play, internet rankings, and data distribution.
2. What happens to my purchased themes after the eShop closes?
You can still redownload themes you’ve purchased, similar to games and DLC.
3. Can I transfer my eShop purchases to the Nintendo Switch?
No, eShop purchases are tied to your Nintendo Account but are not transferable to the Nintendo Switch. The Switch has its own eShop with a separate library of games.
4. What happens if my 3DS or Wii U breaks after the eShop closes?
You can transfer your Nintendo Account and digital games to another 3DS or Wii U console, provided you have access to your account credentials. Redownloading is possible as long as Nintendo maintains the service.
5. How long will Pokémon Bank remain free?
Pokémon Bank is now free to use. Nintendo has stated that Pokemon Bank support “may also end at some point in the future.”
6. Will Pokémon Home be free after the eShop closes?
No, Pokémon Home remains a paid subscription service. However, since Pokémon Bank is free, you can transfer Pokémon from older games to Pokémon Home without charge for the initial transfer.
7. What happens to my Pokémon in Pokémon Home if I stop paying?
If your Pokémon Home subscription lapses, your Pokémon will remain unharmed, but you’ll lose access to certain features and storage capacity.
8. Is it illegal to sell modded 3DS consoles after the eShop closes?
It is illegal to sell or distribute circumvention devices (such as mod chips) that enable unauthorized access to games.
9. Why did Nintendo close the eShop?
Nintendo closed the eShop to focus on its current-generation platforms and services, likely due to declining usage and the cost of maintaining the older infrastructure.
10. What are some essential games to download before the redownload service potentially ends?
Some recommended titles include:
- Picross 3D Round 2
- Pokémon Bank + Poké Transporter
- Pokémon Red/Blue/Yellow/Silver/Gold/Crystal
- Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros. 3 (Wii U)
- Pocket Card Jockey (3DS)
- Rusty’s Real Deal Baseball (3DS)
- Mario & Donkey Kong: Minis on the Move (3DS)
11. Can I still use download codes after the eShop closes?
No, download codes for the 3DS and Wii U eShops are no longer redeemable.
12. What if I never connected my 3DS/Wii U to a Nintendo Account?
Unfortunately, if you never linked your console to a Nintendo Account, you won’t be able to redownload your purchases, as they are tied to an account.
13. How can I back up my digital games?
The easiest way to back up your digital games is to copy the contents of your SD card (3DS) or external storage (Wii U) to a computer. This creates a backup in case of data loss or hardware failure.
14. Will Nintendo ever offer a similar service for older consoles on the Switch?
There’s no official word on this. Nintendo has released some classic games through the Nintendo Switch Online subscription service, but whether they will offer more extensive access to older libraries remains to be seen.
15. What is Nintendo doing to preserve older games?
Nintendo’s efforts at game preservation are inconsistent. They offer some older titles through Nintendo Switch Online, and release remakes and remasters of select games. However, many games remain inaccessible, highlighting the challenges of digital preservation.
The Final Word
While the ability to redownload purchased games from the 3DS and Wii U eShops provides a temporary reprieve, it’s essential to act proactively to secure your digital collection. Back up your games, stay informed about Nintendo’s plans, and support efforts to preserve gaming history. The GamesLearningSociety.org website is a good place to start. The closure of the eShop serves as a stark reminder of the impermanence of digital media and the importance of preserving our gaming heritage.