Are Games Saved on the 3DS or the Cartridge? Unraveling the 3DS Save System
The definitive answer is this: For physical 3DS games, game progress, levels completed, items collected, and the like are primarily saved on the Nintendo 3DS Game Card (the cartridge) itself. However, the story doesn’t end there. Some data, like SpotPass and StreetPass information, extra data, DLC and updates, can be saved to the SD card or the system memory of your 3DS. Understanding the nuances of this system is key to managing your 3DS experience effectively.
The Cartridge’s Role: The Primary Storage Hub
Understanding the Cartridge’s Functionality
The Nintendo 3DS Game Card, or cartridge, acts as the primary storage location for your game’s core data. This includes:
- Game Progress: Your current position in the game, levels you’ve completed, and story progression.
- Inventory: All the items, weapons, and equipment you’ve collected.
- Character Data: Statistics, abilities, and customizations for your in-game characters.
This design ensures that when you move your physical game from one 3DS to another, your save data moves with it. This was a core philosophy of Nintendo’s design, promoting portability and ease of use.
The Longevity of 3DS Cartridges
An often overlooked aspect of cartridges is their durability. Compared to discs, cartridges boast an impressive lifespan. Sources suggest that 3DS cartridges can last anywhere from 20 to 50 years, significantly outperforming the approximate 10-year lifespan of discs. This makes preserving your game collection for the long term significantly easier.
The SD Card’s Supporting Role: Expanding Storage and Functionality
What Goes on the SD Card?
While core game saves reside on the cartridge, the SD card inserted into your 3DS handles a variety of other data:
- Digital Games and Applications: Games purchased and downloaded from the Nintendo eShop are stored on the SD card.
- DLC and Updates: Downloadable content and software updates for both physical and digital games are saved to the SD card.
- SpotPass and StreetPass Data: Information exchanged through these communication features can be stored on the SD card or system memory, depending on the game.
- Extra Data: Some physical games may install extra data onto your system, typically taking up a small amount of space, around 100 blocks or less.
- Multimedia Content: Photos, videos, music, and audio recordings created or downloaded on your 3DS are stored on the SD card.
- DsiWare and Virtual Console Titles: DSiWare is initially downloaded to the system memory but can be moved to the SD card. Virtual console titles are saved on the SD card
Managing Your SD Card: Capacity and Transferring Data
The 3DS family of systems supports SD cards up to 2GB and SDHC cards from 4GB to 32GB. While technically, larger cards may function, Nintendo officially supports up to 32GB.
If you need to upgrade your SD card, you can transfer the entire contents of your old card to the new one using a computer. Simply copy the entire “Nintendo 3DS” folder from the old card to the new one. Remember, you cannot combine data from multiple SD cards onto a single card; the entire folder must be transferred.
Understanding Digital Games and Save Data
Digital Game Storage and Account Linking
Digital games purchased from the Nintendo eShop are tied to your Nintendo Account. This means that if your 3DS breaks, you can redownload your purchased games onto a new 3DS, as long as it is linked to the same Nintendo Account.
The Closure of the eShop: What You Need to Know
As of March 27, 2023, the Nintendo eShop for 3DS has been permanently closed. You can no longer purchase new games or DLC. However, you can still redownload previously purchased games and DLC, as well as download updates for games.
Save Data and Digital Games
When you delete a digital game from your 3DS, the associated save data is also deleted permanently, unless you create a save data backup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does deleting a 3DS game delete save data?
Yes, but it depends. For physical games, deleting the game from your 3DS will not delete the save data on the cartridge. However, for digital games downloaded from the eShop, deleting the game will permanently delete the associated save data unless you have created a backup.
2. How do I transfer save data from a cartridge to a digital version of the same game?
Nintendo provided a Save Data Transfer Tool for this purpose. You needed to download this tool from the eShop (before its closure) and follow the on-screen instructions to transfer the save data from your physical game to a digital copy.
3. Can I use a 64GB or 128GB micro SD card on my 3DS?
Officially, Nintendo only supports SD cards up to 32GB. While some users have reported success using larger cards, they are not officially supported and may cause compatibility issues.
4. Can I just swap SD cards on my 3DS to access different games and data?
Yes, you can swap SD cards. However, each card will be treated as a separate entity. The 3DS will not combine the contents of multiple cards.
5. Are digital 3DS games tied to my account?
Yes, digital 3DS games are linked to your Nintendo Account. This allows you to redownload your purchased games on another 3DS system linked to the same account.
6. What happens to my digital games if my 3DS breaks?
As long as your 3DS is linked to a Nintendo Network ID (NNID), your digital games are safe. You can transfer your NNID to a new 3DS and redownload your games.
7. How do I delete save data on my 3DS cartridge?
Each game handles save deletion differently. Generally, you can hold down a specific combination of buttons (often A+B+X+Y) while the game is loading to erase all save data. Check the game’s manual for specific instructions.
8. Can I still download 3DS games and DLC?
No, the Nintendo eShop for 3DS has closed. You can no longer purchase new games or DLC. However, you can still redownload previously purchased content.
9. Can I use two SD cards with one 3DS?
It is not recommended to use two SD cards with a single 3DS. It’s better to upgrade to a larger SD card if you’re running out of space.
10. Why does Nintendo still use cartridges?
Cartridges are smaller and more energy-efficient than discs, making them ideal for handheld consoles like the 3DS and Nintendo Switch.
11. What happens if I put a 3DS game in a DS?
A 3DS game will not work in a Nintendo DS. The 3DS cartridge format is different and the DS hardware is not compatible.
12. How long will 3DS cartridges last?
3DS cartridges are durable and can last for 20-50 years with proper care.
13. What is saved on SD card 3DS?
The SD card is used for a variety of data including: downloaded games and applications, DLC and Updates, SpotPass and StreetPass data, extra data from physical games, multimedia content, DSiWare, and Virtual Console titles.
14. Does physical 3DS games take up storage?
Yes, physical games can take up storage. If the physical game installs Extra Data onto your system or if you have DLC and Updates.
15. Which had a stronger library, the Nintendo DS or the 3DS?
This is subjective, but both systems had fantastic libraries. Many consider the Nintendo DS to have a slightly stronger library due to its vast number of unique and innovative titles. However, the 3DS boasted impressive 3D capabilities and its own set of memorable games. Many games also help students and adults learn about different topics. More information about this can be found on the Games Learning Society website.
Conclusion
The Nintendo 3DS employed a hybrid save system, leveraging both the game cartridge and the SD card to manage game data and downloadable content. While core game progress was primarily stored on the cartridge, the SD card played a crucial role in expanding storage and enabling features like digital downloads and updates. Understanding this system empowers you to effectively manage your 3DS experience and preserve your gaming memories for years to come.