Are they still producing 3DS?
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Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The Nintendo 3DS is no longer being produced, as the company officially discontinued the 3DS family hardware on September 16, 2020, and the Nintendo eShop for the console shut down on March 27, 2023. The discontinuation of the 3DS marks the end of an era for the popular handheld console, which was first released in 2011 and had a dedicated fan base, but its sales had declined significantly with the rise of the Nintendo Switch.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the Nintendo 3DS still available for purchase?
Although the Nintendo 3DS is no longer being produced, it can still be found for purchase from various retailers, both online and in-store, but the availability of new units is limited, and prices may vary.
2. Can I still download games from the Nintendo eShop on my 3DS?
As of March 27, 2023, it is no longer possible to purchase software or DLC in the Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS, but users can still redownload games and DLC that were purchased previously.
3. Why did Nintendo discontinue the 3DS?
Nintendo likely decided to discontinue the 3DS because its sales had declined significantly with the rise of the Nintendo Switch, and the company wanted to focus on its newer console.
4. Will Nintendo release a new version of the 3DS?
There has been no official announcement from Nintendo regarding a new version of the 3DS, and the company seems to be focusing on the Nintendo Switch and its upcoming games.
5. Can I still play online multiplayer on my 3DS?
As of early April 2024, online play and other functionality that uses online communication will end service for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software.
6. Is the 3DS a failure?
The 3DS is not a failure, as it has sold over 75 million units worldwide, but its sales were lower than expected, and it is considered the worst-performing Nintendo handheld console.
7. Will there be a Nintendo 4DS?
There is no official announcement from Nintendo regarding a Nintendo 4DS, but the company has released several DS consoles in the past, including the Nintendo DS, Nintendo 3DS, and Nintendo 2DS.
8. Is the Nintendo 2DS still available for purchase?
The Nintendo 2DS was discontinued in Japan in 2019 and in the rest of the world in 2020, along with the other systems in the Nintendo 3DS family.
9. Why was the Wii U discontinued?
The Wii U was discontinued due to poor sales, which were largely caused by a lack of third-party support, a confusing marketing strategy, and the rise of the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.
10. Can I still download 3DS games from the Nintendo eShop?
As of March 27, 2023, it is no longer possible to purchase software or DLC in the Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS, but users can still redownload games and DLC that were purchased previously.
11. Is the Nintendo 3DS store closed?
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.
12. Will Nintendo sell 3DS again?
Nintendo has not announced any plans to restart production of the 3DS, and the console is no longer available for purchase from the company’s official website.
13. How much does a 3DS cost in 2023?
The prices of 3DS consoles can vary depending on the region and retailer, but on average, a 3DS XL costs around $159 as of October 2023.
14. What will replace the 3DS?
The Nintendo Switch is likely to replace the 3DS as the company’s primary handheld console, and the rumored Switch Pro could poise itself as a great replacement for the 3DS line of systems.
15. Can I still mod my 3DS?
Yes, it is still possible to install custom firmware on a 3DS, even after the closure of the eShop, but users should be aware of the risks involved and follow proper instructions to avoid damaging their console.