How Many Games Can a 3DS Hold? The Ultimate Guide
The short answer: The number of games your Nintendo 3DS can hold depends primarily on two factors: the size of your SD card and the size of the games themselves. However, there is also a hard limit to the number of icons that can be displayed on the home screen. A 32GB SD card, the maximum officially supported size (though larger cards can work with formatting), can hold anywhere from 100 to 200 eShop games, which are typically smaller. For larger, retail games, you can expect to fit around 12-25 full-sized games on a 32GB card, depending on their individual file sizes. The 3DS can only display 300 icons at a time, no matter how much space you have. This article will break down all you need to know about managing storage and maximizing your 3DS gaming library.
Understanding 3DS Storage Limitations
The Nintendo 3DS utilizes SD cards for storing downloaded games, save data, and other content. Knowing your 3DS’s limitations is key to planning your digital library effectively. While officially supporting up to 32GB SDHC cards, many users have successfully used larger cards (64GB, 128GB, or even larger) by formatting them to FAT32. However, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks and limitations associated with using unsupported card sizes. While technically you could have more than 300 games on a single SD card, you will not be able to display them all.
File Sizes: eShop vs. Retail Games
eShop games generally have smaller file sizes, often clocking in under 2,000 blocks (around 250MB). Games like “A Link Between Worlds” will be larger. Larger retail games, especially those available on the eShop, can range from 5,000 to 25,000 blocks or more. The largest eShop games are around 3GB. Understanding these differences is crucial when deciding whether to purchase physical or digital copies of games. It might be easier to buy the retail version of large games.
The 300-Icon Limit
Even if you have ample space on your SD card, the 3DS has a built-in limitation of 300 icons that can be displayed on the home screen. This means that, even if you have the storage capacity for hundreds of games, you won’t be able to access them all directly from the home screen. You’ll have to use the system settings to manage your downloads and installations. This limit impacts those who exclusively buy digital games.
Maximizing Your 3DS Storage
With the knowledge of the limitations out of the way, it’s time to figure out how to get the most out of your system. Here are a few ideas:
Choosing the Right SD Card
While the Nintendo 3DS officially supports up to 32GB SDHC cards, many users successfully use larger cards after reformatting. To format a larger SD card (64GB, 128GB, etc.) for use with your 3DS, you’ll need to format it to FAT32 using a computer. There are free programs available online that can do this. Be aware that using unsupported card sizes may result in unexpected issues, so proceed with caution.
Prioritizing Physical vs. Digital
Consider your gaming habits. Are you someone who likes to own physical cartridges, or do you prefer the convenience of digital downloads? Physical games don’t take up space on your SD card (except for save data, updates, and DLC), whereas digital games are stored entirely on the card.
Managing Downloads and Deletions
Regularly review your downloaded games and delete those that you no longer play. You can always re-download them from the eShop later, as long as the service remains active. Keep in mind that save data is often stored separately, so deleting a game doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll lose your progress. However, if your save data is saved on the game, you will.
Utilizing Save Data Backups
Before deleting any games, consider backing up your save data. This can be done using the system settings on your 3DS. This way, you can restore your progress if you decide to re-download the game in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the maximum officially supported SD card size for the 3DS?
Officially, the Nintendo 3DS supports SD cards up to 2GB and SDHC cards from 4GB to 32GB.
2. Can I use a larger SD card than 32GB?
Yes, many users have successfully used 64GB, 128GB, and even larger SD cards by formatting them to FAT32. However, this is not officially supported by Nintendo, and you may encounter issues.
3. How do I format an SD card to FAT32?
You’ll need to use a computer and a dedicated formatting tool. There are several free programs available online that can format SD cards to FAT32. Ensure you back up any important data on the card before formatting, as this process will erase all existing data.
4. How many blocks is 1GB?
Approximately 8,192 blocks are equivalent to 1GB on the 3DS. Each block is 128kb.
5. How many blocks is Dragon Quest VIII?
Dragon Quest VIII is one of the larger games for the 3DS and takes up 28,800 blocks.
6. Will physical 3DS games take up storage?
Not much. Physical 3DS games primarily run off the cartridge. However, game updates, DLC, and sometimes extra data are installed, which will take up space on your SD card. This is generally a smaller amount of storage compared to the full game size.
7. Is a 64GB SD card a good choice for a 3DS?
A 64GB SD card offers a good balance between storage capacity and cost. It should be sufficient for most users, allowing you to store a decent number of digital games, save data, and other content. As long as it’s formatted to FAT32, it should work fine.
8. Does the New Nintendo 3DS have more storage than the original 3DS?
No, the New Nintendo 3DS and the original 3DS have the same storage limitations. The main difference is the increased processing power and other hardware improvements.
9. Can I transfer data between SD cards on my 3DS?
Yes, you can transfer data between SD cards on your 3DS. You can do this by copying the contents of one card to your computer and then transferring them to the new card. Make sure the SD card is formatted to FAT32, especially if it is above 32GB.
10. How do I know how much free space I have on my SD card?
You can check the amount of free space on your SD card through the system settings on your 3DS. Go to “Data Management,” then “Nintendo 3DS,” and finally “SD Card Management.”
11. What happens if I fill up my SD card?
If your SD card is full, you won’t be able to download new games or save data. You’ll need to delete some existing content to free up space.
12. Is it safe to use a microSD card with an adapter in my 3DS?
Yes, using a microSD card with an SD card adapter is a common and generally safe way to increase storage on your 3DS. Just make sure the microSD card is compatible with the 3DS (i.e., SDHC) and that the adapter is of good quality.
13. Where can I find more information about the 3DS and gaming in general?
For educational resources and insights into the world of gaming and learning, you can visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.
14. How much storage does Legend of Zelda Ocarina of Time take up?
Ocarina of Time is 3,644 blocks.
15. Is there a limit to the amount of times I can replace my SD card?
No, there is no limit on the times you can transfer data between SD Cards.
Conclusion
While the Nintendo 3DS has certain storage limitations, understanding these limitations and utilizing effective management strategies can help you maximize your gaming library. By choosing the right SD card, prioritizing physical vs. digital copies, and regularly managing your downloads, you can enjoy a wide range of 3DS games on your handheld console. Remember to consider the 300 icon limit as well! Happy gaming!