How To Use the 3DS eShop in 2023
The Nintendo 3DS, a beloved handheld console, holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers. However, with the passage of time, changes have occurred, particularly regarding its digital storefront, the eShop. If you’re wondering how to use the 3DS eShop in 2023, the short answer is: You can’t make new purchases anymore. The Nintendo eShop for the 3DS and Wii U was officially closed on March 27th, 2023, marking the end of an era for digital game purchases on these platforms.
While this means you can no longer buy new games, DLC, or add funds to your account, some functionalities of the eShop remain. It’s important to understand these limitations and the available options to make the most of your 3DS in 2023. While the eShop’s purchasing functions are shuttered, you can still redownload previously purchased games and DLC, as well as download updates for titles you own.
This article will guide you through the current state of the 3DS eShop and answer the most pressing questions about what you can and cannot do. Let’s dive into the details.
What Does the eShop Closure Mean?
The closure of the 3DS eShop means more than just the inability to buy new titles. It encompasses several key limitations:
- No new purchases: You cannot buy any new digital games, DLC, or in-game content from the eShop.
- No demo downloads: Free demos and free-to-play software are no longer available for download.
- No download code redemption: You cannot redeem download codes for games or DLC.
- No adding funds: It’s not possible to add any new funds to your Nintendo Network ID linked to your 3DS.
Redownloading Previous Purchases
While the purchasing aspect is gone, you can still access your purchase history and redownload games and DLC you bought before the closure. This is great news for anyone who might have lost their data or wants to access their digital library. To do so, simply navigate to the eShop application on your 3DS and find the relevant sections for your downloaded games.
Updating Games
Beyond redownloading, you can still download updates for games you own. This means that if a patch or minor update becomes available for a previously purchased game, you’ll be able to access it through the eShop update system. Keeping games updated can often improve their performance or stability.
Why the eShop Closure Matters
The eShop closure is significant because it represents the end of an era for the 3DS. Many unique and often exclusive titles were only available digitally, and these are now largely unobtainable for new users. It’s a reminder that access to digital content can sometimes be limited by platform lifecycles.
However, the closure has also triggered a sort of 3DS renaissance, as many players who had previously abandoned their 3DS consoles have returned to play through their existing libraries. The console’s StreetPass feature also remains functional, offering the potential for local multiplayer and sharing. In short, even with the eShop closures, there is plenty of value to be found in the system’s legacy.
15 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the 3DS eShop in 2023
Here are the answers to common questions that users have about the 3DS eShop:
1. Can I still access the 3DS eShop?
Yes, you can still access the 3DS eShop to redownload previously purchased games and DLC, and to download updates for those games. However, you cannot make any new purchases.
2. How do I link my Nintendo Account to my 3DS in 2023?
To link a Nintendo Network ID (the system used by the 3DS) to your Nintendo Account (if you had one previously), you can follow these steps:
- Go to the HOME menu on your 3DS.
- Select System Settings.
- Go to Nintendo Network ID Settings, then Next.
- Select Link an Existing ID. Follow the prompts to complete the process.
3. Is the 3DS worth it in 2023?
While you cannot buy new digital games on it, the 3DS is still a valuable system in 2023 for its impressive library of already released titles, and the fact that Streetpass and local play are still functional. A large number of games are still available physically as well. Many are revisiting the console for its retro charm, especially with its price trending downwards, making it an affordable way to experience its diverse catalog.
4. Can I still redeem 3DS eShop codes?
No, it is no longer possible to redeem 3DS eShop codes. This feature was disabled with the eShop closure on March 27th, 2023.
5. Does StreetPass still work in 2023?
Yes, the StreetPass functionality remains fully operational on the 3DS, allowing you to connect with other 3DS owners you encounter in real-life.
6. Can you still play 3DS games online in 2023?
No, online services for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U ended in April 2024. This means that online multiplayer, leaderboards, and other online features are no longer accessible.
7. How long did the 3DS lifespan last?
The 3DS family of consoles had a lifespan of nine years from its launch in 2011 until the discontinuation of hardware production in 2020.
8. How much does a 3DS cost in 2023?
Used 3DS XL prices start at around $155 on average as of November 2023. Prices will continue to vary based on condition and market demand, with trends suggesting that they will continue to drop.
9. What is the Nintendo 4DS?
There is no official Nintendo console named “Nintendo 4DS.” The mention in the article is likely either a mistake, or a reference to a custom modified system.
10. Can I still transfer Pokemon from 3DS to Switch in 2023?
Yes, you can transfer Pokemon from the 3DS to the Switch through Pokemon HOME using Pokemon Bank. However, Pokemon can’t be transferred back to 3DS titles once transferred into Pokemon Home.
11. How do I get money for my 3DS eShop?
Since the eShop closure, it is no longer possible to add funds to your 3DS account. Any previous methods like credit card, eShop cards, or PayPal accounts are now defunct for 3DS purchases.
12. How do I transfer my 3DS account to a new 3DS?
You can transfer your 3DS data to another 3DS system:
* Go to System Settings on the source system.
* Select Other Settings, then System Transfer.
* Follow the on-screen instructions to transfer your data between consoles.
13. What is Ghost eShop?
Ghost eShop is a term used to refer to unofficial databases of games for the 3DS and DS platforms. Accessing such databases may be done through means of custom firmware modifications. Please use these with caution and respect to copyrighted content.
14. Can I still download 3DS games after the eShop closes?
Yes, you can still redownload 3DS games you previously purchased. You will not be able to purchase new games or DLC through the shop, however.
15. Can you play 3DS games on the Switch?
No, you cannot play 3DS games directly on the Nintendo Switch. The Switch does not support backward compatibility with the 3DS hardware or games.
Conclusion
While the 3DS eShop is no longer the thriving marketplace it once was, the console itself remains a valuable piece of gaming history. The ability to redownload previous purchases and enjoy the many physical releases still available ensures that the 3DS continues to provide hours of entertainment even in 2023. Although you can no longer buy new digital content, embracing the past and the console’s rich library can be an enjoyable experience for both newcomers and long-time fans alike.