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Can I Redownload 3DS Games After March? Your Definitive Guide

Yes, you can redownload 3DS games and DLC that you have previously purchased from the Nintendo eShop, even after the official cutoff date in March 2023. While the ability to purchase new games or DLC ended on March 27, 2023, Nintendo has allowed users to continue redownloading content they already own “for the foreseeable future.” However, online services for Nintendo 3DS, including online play and other functionality, will end in early April 2024, impacting aspects of the 3DS experience beyond just redownloading games.

Understanding the 3DS eShop Closure and Its Implications

The closing of the 3DS and Wii U eShops marks the end of an era for Nintendo’s legacy handheld and console. While the ability to download new titles is gone, understanding what remains possible is crucial for preserving your digital game library. This article will explore what you can and cannot do after the shutdown, providing clear answers and practical advice. It’s a bittersweet moment, but you can still enjoy much of what you’ve already acquired.

Key Dates and Deadlines

March 27, 2023: Date when purchasing new games or DLC on the 3DS and Wii U eShops ceased.
Early April 2024: Date when online services for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U will be discontinued. This impacts online play, rankings, and data distribution.

What You Can Still Do After the eShop Closure

Even after the official shutdown, several features remain accessible:

Redownload Purchased Content: As mentioned, you can still redownload games, DLC, themes, and applications you’ve already purchased. This is vital for preserving your digital library if you need to restore your system or switch SD cards.
Download Existing Software Updates: Nintendo will continue to provide software updates for games, allowing you to keep enjoying enhanced gameplay and bug fixes.
Transfer to a New SD Card: The account that made the purchase is saved to the systems memory and not the SD card. You can transfer the content of your old SD card to a new one, but you have to use the same account.
Pokemon Bank and Poke Transfer: These features remain available and functional, allowing you to transfer your Pokémon between generations. This is especially crucial for those who play the older Pokémon titles.

What You Cannot Do After the eShop Closure

While the ability to redownload is still active, several key functions are no longer available. These include:

Purchasing New Games or DLC: This is the most significant change. You can no longer buy digital games or DLC from the eShop.
Redeeming Download Codes: Any unused download codes for games or DLC are now unusable on the 3DS eShop.
Adding Funds to Your Account: The ability to add funds directly to your 3DS or Wii U account has been removed.
Normal Demos: You can no longer redownload normal demos.

Protecting Your Digital Legacy

Given the limitations, proactive steps are necessary to secure your digital collection.

Ensure Downloads are Complete: Redownload all of your purchased games and DLC to your 3DS and back them up.
Back Up Your SD Card: Regularly back up the contents of your SD card to your computer. This will safeguard your downloaded games and saves in case of card failure.
Check Storage Limits: Be mindful of the 300 app/game limit on the 3DS.
Consider Digital Copies: It might be wise to start buying the physical copies of your favorite games so that you will always have them even after the digital services expire.

The End of Online Services in April 2024

Beyond the eShop closure, it’s critical to remember that online services for the 3DS will end in early April 2024. This includes online play, leaderboards, and data distribution for many games. Plan accordingly if online features are essential to your enjoyment of certain titles.

Preserving Gaming History

The closure of digital storefronts and online services brings broader implications for gaming history and preservation. Access to older games becomes increasingly difficult, highlighting the importance of physical media and the role of digital archiving.

Consider the work done by organizations like the Games Learning Society in researching the educational and cultural impacts of games. Archiving and preserving these experiences is important for future generations. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more about their work in this field.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I still redownload 3DS games on a new 3DS?

Yes, as long as you are using the same Nintendo Account that was used to purchase the games initially. You’ll need to link your Nintendo Network ID to a Nintendo Account if you haven’t already.

2. What happens if my 3DS breaks after the eShop closes?

If your 3DS breaks, and you haven’t backed up your downloaded games, you might lose them. This highlights the importance of regular SD card backups. Consider transferring your license to another 3DS system while you still can if possible.

3. Will Pokémon Bank and Poké Transporter still work after the online services shut down?

While Pokemon Bank and Poke Transporter will function after the eShop shuts down, its future operation depends on the online services.

4. Can I transfer my 3DS games to my Nintendo Switch?

No, 3DS games are not compatible with the Nintendo Switch. The Switch is an entirely different platform and doesn’t support backwards compatibility with 3DS games.

5. What does the end of online services mean for games like Animal Crossing: New Leaf?

For games heavily reliant on online features, like Animal Crossing: New Leaf, the experience will change considerably. You will no longer be able to visit other players’ towns, receive updates, or participate in online events.

6. Is it possible to mod my 3DS after the eShop closure?

Yes, modding your 3DS is still possible after the eShop closure. However, be aware that modding can void your warranty and potentially damage your system if not done correctly. Using a hacked 3DS to play games online can also get your account banned.

7. Can I still get software updates for my 3DS games?

Yes, you can still download existing software updates for your 3DS games, even after the eShop closure.

8. What is the maximum number of games I can have on my 3DS?

The 3DS has a limit of 300 apps/games that can be installed simultaneously.

9. Can I still redeem game codes that I haven’t used yet?

No, it is no longer possible to redeem download codes on the 3DS eShop after the cutoff date.

10. What happens to my save data if I delete a game and redownload it?

If you delete a game, your save data remains on your SD card unless you specifically delete it. When you redownload the game, your save data should still be there. It’s always wise to back up your save data as a precaution. Save data can be restored using the Save-Data Backup option in the system settings.

11. How do I transfer data to a new SD card?

To transfer data, copy the contents of your old SD card to your computer, then paste them onto the new SD card. Be sure to use the official SDFormatter program on the new card to optimize it before transferring the files.

12. Will streetpass still function after online services are discontinued?

Since it does not rely on online services, Streetpass will still be functional after online services are discontinued.

13. Is it illegal to pirate 3DS games?

Yes, video game piracy is illegal and opposed by Nintendo. It harms game developers and the gaming industry as a whole.

14. Why did Nintendo discontinue the 3DS?

Nintendo discontinued the 3DS primarily because it was no longer selling as well as it used to, particularly after the success of the Nintendo Switch.

15. Is it still possible to buy a new Nintendo 3DS?

While the Nintendo 3DS was discontinued in 2020, it may still be possible to find new or used consoles from retailers or online marketplaces. However, availability may be limited.

Conclusion: Navigating the Post-eShop Era

While the closure of the 3DS and Wii U eShops marks a significant change, it doesn’t mean the end of enjoying your existing digital games. By understanding what is still possible and taking proactive steps to protect your digital library, you can continue to enjoy your 3DS for the foreseeable future, even as the online services eventually sunset in April 2024. Remember to back up your data, redownload your favorite titles, and savor the experiences these games offer. This is a great opprotunity to look to the future with the Games Learning Society and preserve the value in these gaming experiences.

Can I redownload 3DS games after March?