Can You Mod Your 3DS After the eShop Closure? A Comprehensive Guide

The Nintendo 3DS, a beloved handheld console, has a dedicated community of players, many of whom are interested in modifying their systems. With the official Nintendo eShop closure in March 2023, a significant question has arisen: Can you still mod your 3DS? The straightforward answer is a resounding YES! The eShop closure has not affected the ability to mod a 3DS in any way. This article will delve deeper into why this is the case and answer 15 crucial FAQs to help you navigate the world of 3DS modding.

How the eShop Closure Affects 3DS Modding

It’s important to understand that the eShop closure primarily affected the purchase of new digital games and DLC. It does not affect the underlying system software of the 3DS. Modifying a 3DS involves exploiting vulnerabilities in the system software to install custom firmware (CFW), allowing you to run homebrew applications, install games from other sources, and tweak the system in various ways. This process is entirely independent of the eShop and its services.

Therefore, the closing of the eShop has no impact on the various methods used to mod your 3DS, which are still fully functional. Whether you’re interested in using Luma3DS, the most popular custom firmware, or any other related tools, the ability to modify your console remains.

Why Mod Your 3DS?

Before we go into FAQs, let’s briefly touch upon why players choose to mod their 3DS. The primary reasons often include:

• Playing ROMs: Modding allows you to play ROMs of 3DS and Nintendo DS games from the SD card, expanding your library significantly.
• Homebrew Applications: There’s a thriving homebrew scene creating amazing tools, emulators, and games for the 3DS.
• System Customization: CFW allows customization of the 3DS interface, themes, and other system-level features.
• Enhanced Game Experience: You can use mods to enhance gameplay, like adding cheat codes or patches to existing games.
• Backup Your Games: You can back up physical copies of games as digital files for ease of use.
• Preserving Game Data: Modding offers an alternative to Nintendo’s online services for the long-term preservation of your game libraries.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions addressing various aspects of modding your 3DS post-eShop closure:

1. What versions of the 3DS can be hacked?

You can hack all retail versions of the 3DS. This includes the original 3DS, 3DS XL, and 2DS, as well as the New 3DS, New 3DS XL, and the New 2DS XL. All these models are compatible with custom firmware installation.

2. Can I still redownload 3DS games and DLC after the eShop closes?

Yes, you can still redownload games and DLC that you have previously purchased from the eShop for the foreseeable future. This feature is unrelated to modding and uses existing servers provided by Nintendo. It is important to note that this will not last forever so it is wise to back up your games if possible.

3. What is the best entry point for modding after the eShop closure?

The best entry points are still the ones that have been actively used for years. The most common one used involves installing custom firmware via exploits to install CFW such as Luma3DS, and this remains the recommended path. The specific entry point will depend on the current firmware version of your 3DS so be sure to look into the specific guides relating to your console version.

4. Is modding my 3DS illegal?

Modding itself is not illegal. However, using modded consoles for piracy (distributing or downloading games that you do not own) is illegal and violates copyright laws. Additionally, selling modified consoles that enable piracy can also be considered illegal and is often contested by Nintendo.

5. Will I get banned for modding my 3DS?

Generally, you will not get banned for simply modding your 3DS and using homebrew. However, Nintendo can ban your console if they find that you are using cheats or modifying your games online. If you stick to using single-player games or playing online without using cheats, you should not encounter any issues. It is important to note that Nintendo support for the 3DS will cease soon so the risk of banning is lowered.

6. Can a modded 3DS still play physical cartridges?

Yes, a console with custom firmware can still play physical cartridges and access online functions just like any unmodified 3DS. Modding doesn’t restrict the ability to play legitimate games.

7. What is FBI 3DS?

FBI is a popular open-source title manager for the 3DS. It is typically used to install .cia files, which are the format for 3DS games and applications, and manage other files on the console.

8. What is GodMode9?

GodMode9 is a powerful file browser for the 3DS, providing full access to the console’s file system. It’s a versatile tool used for a wide range of functions, including backing up and restoring system files and installing CFW.

9. What are ROMs? Can my 3DS play them?

ROMs are digital copies of game cartridges. A modded 3DS can play ROMs from the SD card, both for 3DS and Nintendo DS games. Not all ROMs are supported though so be sure to research the specific type of ROMs you wish to play.

10. Can I get Pokemon Bank after the eShop closes?

Yes, you can still download Pokemon Bank even after the eShop has closed. Nintendo has stated that Pokemon Bank’s online functionality will remain active even after the general online services of the 3DS are shut down.

11. What happens to my digital games if my 3DS breaks?

If your 3DS breaks, your digital games are tied to your Nintendo Network ID (NNID), not the specific console. If you have an active NNID, you can transfer your purchases to a new 3DS.

12. Is it illegal to pirate 3DS games?

Yes, pirating 3DS games is illegal. Distributing or downloading games without owning them constitutes copyright infringement. Nintendo actively pursues legal action against those involved in piracy.

13. Is freeShop illegal?

Yes, freeShop is illegal because it infringes upon Nintendo’s copyrights by enabling access to games without payment. It circumvents Nintendo’s protection measures and violates the Digital Millennium Copyright Act.

14. Can I still use online features on a modded 3DS?

Yes, you can still use online features on a modded 3DS. However, it’s important to avoid cheating or modifying game data online. Doing so can lead to a ban from Nintendo. Nintendo’s support for the 3DS online is ending on April 2024 for most titles.

15. Why does my 3DS restart after closing a game?

When you close a game, the 3DS restarts to refresh the system and return it to its normal state. This is standard behaviour and does not indicate any issues.

Conclusion

The closure of the Nintendo eShop does not prevent you from modding your 3DS. The processes for installing custom firmware and using homebrew remain fully functional. Modding offers an array of options for customization, expanded game libraries, and enhanced experiences, all while giving you a method for long-term preservation of your games. However, it’s important to use modding responsibly and ethically by avoiding illegal activities such as piracy. With careful research and proper usage, you can continue to enjoy your 3DS for years to come!