Is Downloading 3DS Titles Not Possible Anymore?
As of March 27, 2023, it is no longer possible to purchase software or DLC in the Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS, but you can still redownload games and DLC that were previously purchased. The eShop closure means that you won’t be able to buy or download new games on the 3DS or Wii U eShop, but you can still access and download your previously purchased content for the foreseeable future.
Understanding the eShop Closure
The Nintendo eShop for the Wii U and 3DS game consoles officially closed for business on March 27th, 2023, permanently disabling all new purchases on the platforms. This significant change affects how players can access and download games, DLC, and other content on these consoles.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Will I Still Be Able to Redownload 3DS Games After the eShop Closes?
Yes, you can still redownload games, apps, themes, and special demos after the eShop closes, but normal demos will not be available for redownload.
2. Can I Download Games I’ve Purchased After It’s Closed?
According to Nintendo, yes, you will be able to download purchased items for the foreseeable future; you just can’t make new purchases.
3. Will DLC Still Work on 3DS?
DLC will still work on 3DS, and if you delete some DLC, you will be able to redownload it after the eShop shutdown.
4. Will You Still Be Able to Buy DLC After eShop Closes?
No, you won’t be able to buy DLC after the eShop closes, but you can redownload previously purchased DLC.
5. Can You Still Redeem Codes on 3DS?
No, it is no longer possible to redeem download codes on the Wii U and 3DS.
6. Can I Still Redownload Games After the eShop Closes?
Yes, according to Nintendo, you will be able to download purchased items for the foreseeable future.
7. What Happens to 3DS eShop Games?
The Nintendo 3DS and Wii U eShops have been permanently closed, and you can no longer purchase new games or DLC from the eShops.
8. What to Get Off the 3DS eShop Before It Closes?
Before the eShop closed, players could purchase games like Picross 3D Round 2, Pokemon Bank + Poke Transporter, and Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario 3.
9. Will Nintendo Sell 3DS Again?
Nintendo announced it was discontinuing production of the 3DS console in 2020, and the e-Shops for Wii U and 3DS shut down in 2023.
10. Can You Still Play 3DS Online 2023?
Online play will also still be available for the foreseeable future for any titles you already own, but online play for 3DS and Wii U will not function after early April 2024.
11. Can You Still Get New Games on 3DS?
No, you won’t be able to buy or download new games on the 3DS or Wii U eShop after March 27th, 2023.
12. Is It Illegal to Sell Modded 3DS?
Yes, it is illegal to import, market, sell, or distribute circumvention devices, such as game copiers, USB piracy sticks, and mod chips.
13. Can You Go to Jail for Modding a 3DS?
Modifying your gaming consoles is legal as long as it does not alter or tamper with the console’s firmware’s code or circumvent any security measures.
14. Why Can’t Original 3DS Play SNES Games?
The original 3DS cannot play SNES games largely because of marketing decisions.
15. What Games Were Removed from 3DS eShop?
Several games, including Barbie And Her Sisters Puppy Rescue, Barbie: Dreamhouse Party, and Beast Saga: Saikyou Gekiotsu Coliseum, were removed from the 3DS eShop.