The End of an Era: Are Nintendo 3DS Consoles Still Sold?
The short answer is no, Nintendo officially discontinued production of all models in the 3DS family of portable gaming systems in 2020. While you might still stumble upon new or used consoles in some retail locations or online marketplaces, these are remnants of past stock, not newly manufactured devices. This marked the end of a significant chapter in Nintendo’s history and the mobile gaming landscape.
A Look Back at the Nintendo 3DS
The Nintendo 3DS, the successor to the wildly successful Nintendo DS, launched in 2011, promising a revolutionary glasses-free 3D gaming experience. While the 3D effect was initially a major selling point, its appeal waned over time, and Nintendo later released models like the 2DS and 2DS XL that omitted the feature altogether.
Despite the 3D gimmick’s fluctuating popularity, the 3DS carved out a niche for itself with its extensive library of games. Featuring a mix of original titles, sequels to beloved franchises, and virtual console classics, the 3DS offered something for every type of gamer. Games like The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds, Animal Crossing: New Leaf, Pokémon X and Y, and Fire Emblem: Awakening cemented the system’s place in gaming history.
Why Was the 3DS Discontinued?
The discontinuation of the 3DS was a multifaceted decision, driven primarily by two key factors:
- The Rise of the Nintendo Switch: The Nintendo Switch, released in 2017, presented a hybrid console experience, blurring the lines between handheld and home console gaming. Its success largely supplanted the need for a dedicated handheld like the 3DS. Nintendo poured its resources into supporting the Switch, ultimately phasing out the 3DS.
- Declining Sales: As the Switch gained momentum, sales of the 3DS naturally declined. While the 3DS had a strong run, its lifecycle reached a point where continued production was no longer economically viable. Nintendo determined it was the opportune time to retire the console.
The closure of the Nintendo eShop for the 3DS in 2023 further solidified the end of the platform’s active support, limiting access to digital games and content. This closure served as a final signal that Nintendo was moving on from the 3DS ecosystem. You can learn more about the impact of gaming on society at the Games Learning Society, a research group dedicated to understanding the social and cultural benefits of play at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Navigating the Post-Discontinuation Landscape
While the 3DS is no longer in production, its legacy lives on. Here’s what you need to know if you’re a current 3DS owner or are considering purchasing a used console:
- Physical Games: Physical copies of 3DS games are still widely available through online retailers, used game stores, and even some brick-and-mortar retailers. Prices may vary depending on the rarity and popularity of the game.
- Used Consoles: The used market is the primary source for obtaining a 3DS console. Expect to find a range of models, from the original 3DS to the 2DS XL, at varying price points. Condition and included accessories will influence the price.
- Online Play: Although online play was discontinued in early April 2024, the article does not mention if this is true at the time of this writing. For many, this was a critical feature, allowing for cooperative and competitive multiplayer experiences.
- Homebrew and Custom Firmware: The 3DS has a thriving homebrew community. Installing custom firmware (CFW) on your 3DS allows you to expand the console’s functionality, potentially including the re-establishment of some online features through community servers. However, proceed with caution as modifying your system can void any remaining warranty and carries some risk of bricking your device.
FAQs: Your Questions About the Nintendo 3DS Answered
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to provide further insights into the current state of the Nintendo 3DS.
1. Can you still buy new 3DS games?
Yes, you can still buy new, physical copies of 3DS games from various retailers online and in some brick-and-mortar stores, while supplies last. However, digital purchases from the eShop are no longer possible.
2. Is it worth buying a used 3DS in [Insert Current Year]?
Whether it’s worth buying a used 3DS depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re interested in experiencing the console’s unique library of games and don’t mind the limitations of a discontinued system, it can be a worthwhile purchase. Factor in the cost of the console and the games you want to play.
3. Will my old 3DS games still work?
Yes, your old 3DS game cartridges will still work on any 3DS family system.
4. Can you still update 3DS games?
Yes, you can still update games. Digital games and DLC are no longer downloadable without hacking.
5. What happens to my digital 3DS games now that the eShop is closed?
You can no longer download or redownload digital 3DS games purchased from the eShop.
6. Can I still transfer my games from one 3DS to another?
While the exact functionality may be affected by the eShop closure, generally, system transfers are still possible, but with limited functionality for digital titles previously acquired via the eShop. Consult Nintendo’s official support pages for the most up-to-date information.
7. Is there a way to get digital 3DS games after the eShop closure?
Not legitimately. The only way to obtain digital 3DS games now is through unofficial means, which often involves piracy and carries inherent risks.
8. What is the difference between the 2DS and 3DS?
The 2DS is a simplified version of the 3DS that lacks the glasses-free 3D capability and has a slate-like design instead of a clamshell form factor.
9. What’s the difference between a New 3DS and a regular 3DS?
The New 3DS features a faster processor, additional shoulder buttons (ZR and ZL), a C-Stick analog nub, improved 3D tracking, and built-in NFC for Amiibo support.
10. Is the Nintendo Switch the replacement for the 3DS?
Yes, the Nintendo Switch has effectively replaced the 3DS as Nintendo’s primary handheld gaming platform.
11. Will there ever be a 4DS?
As of now, there are no official announcements or indications that Nintendo is planning to release a successor to the 3DS family, let alone a “4DS.”
12. Can a 4DS play 3DS games?
Since a 4DS does not exist, this is unknown.
13. Is the 2DS discontinued?
Yes, 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.
14. Can I still mod a 3DS?
Yes, you can still install custom firmware on your 3DS, even after the closure of eShop.
15. Why are 2DS cheaper than 3DS?
2DS is generally cheaper than the 3DS due to its lack of 3D functionality and its simpler, non-folding design, making it a more budget-friendly option.
The 3DS: A Fond Farewell
While the Nintendo 3DS is no longer in production or supported with online services, it will always hold a special place in gaming history. Its unique 3D technology, diverse game library, and innovative features made it a standout console that entertained millions of players worldwide. While its time has passed, its legacy will undoubtedly live on through the memories of those who experienced its magic.