How long will the 3DS be supported?

The Nintendo 3DS will continue to be supported until April 2024, when most Internet functionality will be discontinued, with the exception of Pokémon Bank and the ability to redownload previously purchased software. After this date, online play and other functionality that uses online communication will end for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software, although users will still be able to redownload games and DLC that were purchased previously.

Overview of 3DS Support

History of the 3DS

The Nintendo 3DS is a handheld game console developed and published by Nintendo, first released in 2011. The 3DS family hardware was officially discontinued on September 16, 2020, and the Nintendo eShop for the Wii U and 3DS game consoles officially closed on March 27, 2023.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

1. Will 3DS still be supported? – The Nintendo 3DS will continue to be supported until April 2024, when most Internet functionality will be discontinued.
2. Is Nintendo 3DS going away in 2023? – The Nintendo eShop for the Wii U and 3DS game consoles officially closed on March 27, 2023.
3. Can you still play 3DS online 2023? – As of early April 2024, online play and other functionality that uses online communication will end for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software.

eShop and Purchases

4. Will the 3DS eShop stay open? – The Nintendo 3DS and Wii U eShops have been permanently closed, and you can no longer purchase new games or DLC from the eShops.
5. Can you still update 3DS games after eShop shuts down? – After the eShop has closed, you will still be able to redownload software and DLCs and update existing software.
6. How much does a 3DS sell for 2023? – 3DS XL prices start at $159 and cost $159 on average as of October 2023.

Hardware and Retirement

7. Is the 3DS retired? – The 3DS family hardware was officially discontinued on September 16, 2020.
8. Will Nintendo sell 3DS again? – Nintendo announced it was discontinuing production of the console in 2020, and the e-Shops for Wii U and 3DS will shut down in 2023.
9. Can you still hack your 3DS? – Yes, you can still install custom firmware on your 3DS, even after the closure of eShop.

Online Functionality

10. Will 3DS go offline? – In early April 2024, online play and other functionality that uses online communication will end for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software.
11. Can you get banned for modding 3DS? – Using a hacked 3DS to play cartridge games online can get your Nintendo account banned.

Games and Compatibility

12. Can you play 3DS games on Switch? – No, Nintendo 3DS and Wii U games purchased through Nintendo eShop do not carry over to Nintendo Switch.
13. What to get off the 3DS eShop before it closes? – Some recommended games to purchase before the eShop closure include Picross 3D Round 2, Pokémon Bank + Poke Transporter, and Pocket Card Jockey.

Other Consoles and Legacy

14. Is the Wii being discontinued? – The Wii was formally discontinued in October 2013, though Nintendo continued to produce and market the Wii Mini through 2017.
15. Why did the Wii U fail? – The Wii U failed due to a combination of factors, including poor marketing, a confusing name, and a lack of appeal to both hardcore and casual gamers.