How Many Games Can a New Nintendo 3DS Hold? Let’s Break It Down!

The honest and slightly frustrating answer? It depends! The number of games your New Nintendo 3DS (or any 3DS family system) can hold is heavily influenced by factors such as the size of the games, whether you’re buying physical or digital, and the size of your SD card. However, we can provide a realistic estimate and equip you with the knowledge to maximize your 3DS gaming library.

A 32GB SD card, generally considered the sweet spot for most users, can comfortably hold between 100 to 200 eShop games, depending on their individual sizes. If you primarily buy physical games, you can store significantly more, as the game data mostly resides on the cartridge.

To get a more precise idea for your personal needs, let’s delve deeper into the variables at play.

Understanding Storage Limitations on the 3DS

The Nintendo 3DS, 3DS XL, and 2DS are officially compatible with SD cards up to 2GB and SDHC cards from 4GB to 32GB. While larger SD cards (64GB, 128GB, or even higher) can be used, they require manual formatting to FAT32 and might introduce compatibility issues, especially with GBA graphics and custom themes.

Key Factors Affecting Game Capacity

• Game Size: 3DS games vary considerably in size. Some smaller eShop titles might only be a few hundred megabytes, while larger retail releases can approach 1GB or more.
• Physical vs. Digital: Physical games primarily reside on the cartridge. However, they may require installing extra data, updates, or DLC, which consume SD card space. Digital games, purchased from the Nintendo eShop, take up storage directly on your SD card.
• SD Card Size: The larger your SD card, the more games you can store. A 32GB card offers a good balance between capacity and compatibility, but even an 8GB card can hold a decent collection, particularly if you favor physical copies.
• Save Data: While individual save files are small, they add up over time. The 3DS has a limit of backing up the saves of 30 games using the tool.
• Other Media: Your SD card might also contain photos, videos, or other files, further reducing the available space for games.

Calculating Potential Storage

A 32GB SD card translates to roughly 250,000 blocks on the 3DS. An average eShop game occupies under 2,000 blocks. Therefore, a 32GB card could theoretically hold over 100 games. Popular titles like The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds require about 680MB (5,437 blocks), while The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D needs approximately 455MB (3,644 blocks).

Choosing the Right SD Card Size

• 8GB: Suitable for users primarily playing physical games with minimal digital downloads.
• 16GB: A good starting point for those who occasionally download eShop games and demos.
• 32GB: Recommended for most users, offering ample space for a mix of physical and digital games.
• 64GB/128GB (and higher): For hardcore digital collectors willing to risk potential compatibility issues by formatting to FAT32. Be mindful of reported issues with some larger cards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About 3DS Storage

1. Is 32GB enough for a New 3DS?

Yes, 32GB is generally enough for most 3DS users. It strikes a balance between capacity and compatibility, allowing for a respectable digital library alongside physical game cartridges.

2. Can I use a 64GB SD card in my New 3DS?

Yes, but it requires formatting to FAT32. While it generally works, be aware of potential compatibility issues, especially with GBA games or custom themes.

3. What’s the maximum supported SD card size for the 3DS?

Officially, the maximum supported size is 32GB. However, larger cards (64GB, 128GB, etc.) can be used if formatted to FAT32.

4. How do I format an SD card to FAT32 for my 3DS?

You’ll need a computer and formatting software. Many free tools are available online that can format larger SD cards to FAT32. Be extremely cautious and back up your data first, as formatting will erase all content on the card.

5. How many blocks is 128GB on a 3DS?

A 128GB SD card equates to approximately 1 million blocks on the 3DS.

6. Do physical 3DS games take up storage space?

Yes, but usually minimally. Physical games primarily run from the cartridge, but they might install extra data, updates, or DLC to your SD card. This extra data is generally quite small.

7. How big is an average 3DS game?

The average file size for 3DS games ranges from 500MB to 1.5GB. Smaller eShop titles can be significantly smaller, while larger retail games can approach the 2GB limit.

8. Is an 8GB SD card good enough for a 3DS?

An 8GB SD card can be sufficient if you mostly play physical games and don’t download many digital titles. However, it will quickly fill up if you plan to download several eShop games or demos.

9. What happens if my SD card is full?

You’ll be unable to download new games, updates, or DLC. You’ll need to either delete existing content to free up space or upgrade to a larger SD card.

10. Can I use two SD cards with my 3DS?

No, it’s not recommended. The 3DS is designed to use only one SD card at a time. Switching between multiple cards can lead to data corruption or other issues.

11. What’s the best way to manage storage space on my 3DS?

• Prioritize physical copies: If possible, buy physical game cartridges to conserve SD card space.
• Delete unnecessary content: Remove demos, old games, or other files you no longer use.
• Transfer data to a computer: Back up photos and videos to your computer to free up space on your SD card.
• Consider a larger SD card: If you consistently run out of space, upgrading to a larger SD card is the best solution.

12. How do I transfer data between SD cards?

You can transfer data between SD cards using a computer. Simply copy all the files from the old card to the new card. Ensure the new card is formatted to FAT32 if it’s larger than 32GB.

13. Will using a larger, unsupported SD card void my warranty?

While Nintendo doesn’t officially support cards larger than 32GB, using them (after formatting to FAT32) generally doesn’t void your warranty unless it causes damage to the system. However, be aware that you’re doing so at your own risk.

14. What is the biggest 3DS game?

Xenoblade Chronicles 3D is known as one of the largest, requiring considerable storage space.

15. Is the Nintendo 3DS still worth it in 2024?

Even with its successor, the Nintendo Switch, enjoying immense success, the Nintendo 3DS still offers a vast library of unique and beloved games. Its portability, affordability (especially for used systems), and distinctive dual-screen experience make it a worthwhile platform for both new and returning gamers.

Final Thoughts

Maximizing your New 3DS’s game storage involves understanding the interplay between game size, storage capacity, and your gaming habits. By carefully considering these factors and utilizing the tips and FAQs above, you can create a thriving 3DS gaming library tailored to your needs. Happy gaming!

If you’re interested in the educational potential of games, be sure to visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.