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Is Nintendo Still Selling the 3DS? A Deep Dive into a Handheld Legacy

The straightforward answer is no. Nintendo officially discontinued production of the entire Nintendo 3DS family of systems in September 2020. This includes all models like the original 3DS, 3DS XL, 2DS, New 3DS, and New 2DS XL. While you won’t find new units directly from Nintendo, the 3DS lives on through the used market and the memories of its dedicated fanbase.

The End of an Era: Why the 3DS Was Discontinued

The Nintendo 3DS enjoyed a long and relatively successful run. Launched in 2011 as the successor to the immensely popular Nintendo DS, it brought glasses-free 3D gaming to the masses. However, several factors contributed to its eventual discontinuation:

The Rise of the Nintendo Switch: The Switch, launched in 2017, presented a hybrid console experience. It seamlessly blended handheld and home console gaming, fulfilling a need that the 3DS previously addressed. Nintendo channeled its resources into the Switch, making it the primary platform.
Declining Sales: As the Switch gained traction, sales of the 3DS naturally declined. Nintendo recognized the shift in consumer preference and made the strategic decision to consolidate its efforts.
Focus on Innovation: Nintendo consistently strives to innovate. Discontinuing older hardware allows them to concentrate on developing new technologies and gaming experiences, which is now centered around the Switch and its future iterations.

The 3DS Legacy: More Than Just 3D

The 3DS offered a vast library of games, spanning genres and appealing to a wide audience. It wasn’t just about the 3D effect. The dual-screen setup, the stylus input, and the robust online features (before their eventual shutdown) created a unique and engaging gaming experience.

Games like The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D, Animal Crossing: New Leaf, Pokémon X and Y, and Super Mario 3D Land are considered classics, showcasing the system’s capabilities. The 3DS also embraced indie developers, offering a platform for creative and experimental games through the eShop.

The cultural impact of the 3DS is undeniable. It introduced a new generation to Nintendo’s iconic franchises, fostered a thriving online community, and solidified Nintendo’s position as a leader in handheld gaming. This influence is recognized and discussed in the academic community, such as by researchers associated with the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. They and others explore how gaming systems and games play important roles in teaching and learning.

Finding a 3DS Today: The Secondhand Market

While Nintendo no longer manufactures the 3DS, it’s still possible to acquire one through various channels:

Used Game Stores: Stores like GameStop (though selection may vary significantly) often carry used 3DS systems. Inspect the console carefully for any damage or defects before purchasing.
Online Marketplaces: Platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist are popular sources for used 3DS consoles. Exercise caution and research sellers thoroughly before committing to a purchase.
Pawn Shops: Pawn shops occasionally have 3DS systems in stock. Prices can vary, so it’s worth comparing with other sources.

When purchasing a used 3DS, consider these factors:

Condition: Examine the screen for scratches, the buttons for responsiveness, and the overall physical condition of the console.
Price: Compare prices across different sources to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
Functionality: If possible, test the console before buying to verify that all features are working correctly, including game cartridge slots, Wi-Fi connectivity (though online services are limited now), and sound output.

The Future of Nintendo Handheld Gaming

The Nintendo Switch has effectively absorbed the handheld gaming market previously occupied by the 3DS. While there are no current plans for a dedicated successor to the 3DS, Nintendo’s commitment to handheld gaming remains strong through the Switch and its future iterations. The company’s next console is expected to be a hybrid system, like the Switch, but with enhanced capabilities. Nintendo’s legacy of innovation suggests they will continue to push the boundaries of portable gaming in the years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Nintendo 3DS

Here are 15 FAQs to further clarify the status of the Nintendo 3DS:

Is the Nintendo 3DS completely dead?

No, not completely. While Nintendo no longer manufactures or supports it with online services, you can still play single-player games and enjoy the vast library of 3DS titles. The hardware itself still functions, and the used market allows you to acquire consoles and games.

Can I still download games on my 3DS?

No. The Nintendo eShop for the 3DS and Wii U closed on March 27, 2023. You can no longer purchase new digital games. However, it was possible to redownload previously purchased games for a time.

Will my 3DS games stop working?

Physical 3DS game cartridges should continue to function as long as the cartridge itself remains in good condition. Some cartridges are known to have failure issues as they age, but this is not universal.

Can I still play 3DS games online?

No. Online play and other online functionalities for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software ended in early April 2024.

What happens to my digital 3DS games now that the eShop is closed?

You were able to redownload previously purchased games for a limited time. Nintendo has not announced a specific date when redownload services will end.

Is it still possible to mod my 3DS?

Yes. The closure of the eShop does not affect your ability to install custom firmware on your 3DS. The homebrew community continues to develop tools and resources for 3DS modding.

Is the Nintendo 2DS also discontinued?

Yes. The Nintendo 2DS, which is part of the 3DS family, was discontinued alongside the other models in 2020.

What’s the difference between the 3DS and the 2DS?

The primary difference is the 3D functionality. The 3DS offers a stereoscopic 3D display, while the 2DS does not. The 2DS also has a slate-like design instead of the clamshell design of the 3DS.

Will there ever be a 4DS?

There are no current plans for a Nintendo 4DS. Nintendo is focused on the Nintendo Switch and its future console development.

Why did the 3DS fail initially?

The 3DS had a slow start due to its high price, a lack of compelling launch titles, and the fact that the 3D effect needed to be experienced in person. A price cut and a strong lineup of games helped to turn things around.

What replaced the 3DS?

The Nintendo Switch is generally considered the replacement for the 3DS. It offers both handheld and home console gaming in a single device.

Are DS games compatible with the 3DS?

Yes. The Nintendo 3DS is backward compatible with most Nintendo DS games.

How much is a used Nintendo 3DS worth in 2024?

The price of a used Nintendo 3DS varies depending on the model, condition, and included accessories. Expect to pay anywhere from $80 to $200+ for a used system.

Can I transfer my games from 3DS to Switch?

No. There is no direct way to transfer 3DS games to the Nintendo Switch. However, some 3DS games have been re-released or remastered for the Switch.

Is Nintendo still making handheld games?

Yes. While there is no dedicated handheld system anymore, the Nintendo Switch is primarily used as a handheld console by many players. Nintendo continues to develop games that are well-suited for handheld play on the Switch.

Is Nintendo still selling 3DS?