Is the Nintendo DSi Discontinued? A Nostalgic Look Back
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Yes, the Nintendo DSi and DSi XL were discontinued globally on September 30, 2014. This quietly marked the end of a significant era in handheld gaming, happening just before the release of the New Nintendo 3DS and New Nintendo 3DS XL. While you can no longer purchase a new DSi from official retailers, the system and its legacy continue to hold a special place in the hearts of gamers.
Remembering the Nintendo DSi
The Nintendo DSi, launched in 2008 in Japan and 2009 in other regions, was a notable evolution of the hugely successful Nintendo DS. It brought several key improvements, including dual cameras, a downloadable game service called DSiWare, and a sleeker design. The DSi XL, a larger version with bigger screens and improved viewing angles, followed soon after, catering to a different segment of the gaming audience.
The DSi was designed to further broaden the appeal of handheld gaming. The built-in cameras encouraged creativity and interaction, while DSiWare provided access to a wide range of smaller, downloadable titles that weren’t available on traditional game cartridges. These factors, combined with the existing library of Nintendo DS games, made the DSi a versatile and attractive option for gamers of all ages. The Games Learning Society values this type of innovation in game design.
While it’s no longer in production, the impact of the DSi on the handheld gaming landscape is undeniable. It helped to pave the way for the features and services we now take for granted on portable consoles, and its legacy lives on in the games and experiences it provided.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Nintendo DSi
DSi Availability Today
Is the DSi still available for purchase?
While new DSi consoles are no longer being manufactured or sold by Nintendo, you might find used or refurbished models available through online marketplaces, retro gaming stores, or from private sellers. Condition and pricing will vary greatly.
Accessing DSiWare
Can I still purchase Nintendo DSiWare?
Sadly, no. The Nintendo DSi Shop, which was the platform for purchasing and downloading DSiWare, has been permanently closed. This means you can no longer legally purchase new DSiWare titles.
Playing Purchased DSiWare
Can I still play the DSiWare I’ve purchased?
If you’ve previously purchased and downloaded DSiWare to your DSi system, you should still be able to play it as long as the console is functioning correctly and hasn’t been reset to factory settings. The ability to re-download these titles has also been discontinued. If you transferred your content to a newer system in the Nintendo 3DS family, you can continue to access and re-download it there.
The End of Production
When was the last DSi made?
The Nintendo DSi and DSi XL ceased production on September 30, 2014.
Original DSi Price
How much was the DSi when it first came out?
The Nintendo DSi launched in the United States on April 5, 2009, at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $169.99.
DSi eShop Status
Is the DSi eShop down?
Yes. The DSi Shop has been shut down permanently. It’s not coming back.
Game Compatibility Issues
Why won’t my DSi read my game?
First, make sure the Game Card is fully inserted by pressing firmly until you hear a click. Also, ensure you’re selecting the Game Card’s icon from the Nintendo DSi menu to start the game. If the issue persists, the game card or the DSi’s card reader may be damaged.
DSi Sales Numbers
How many DSi consoles were sold?
The Nintendo DSi sold 28.44 million units, while the DSi XL sold 12.93 million units as of September 2014, for a combined total of 41.37 million units.
3DS Game Playability
Can a DSi play 3DS games?
No. Nintendo 3DS Game Cards can only be played on a Nintendo 3DS family system. The DSi is not compatible with 3DS games.
Redownloading DSi Games
Can you still redownload DSi games?
No. You can no longer redownload Nintendo DSiWare content.
DS Game Compatibility
Do all DS games work on DSi?
Yes, all currently available software released for Nintendo DS can be played on Nintendo DSi. However, as the Nintendo DSi does not have a Game Boy Advance Game Pak Slot, certain games for Nintendo DS that make use of the GBA Game Pak Slot cannot be played, or some of the games’ features cannot be used.
DSi Meaning
What does DSi mean?
Technically, DSi doesn’t “mean” anything in the same way an acronym does. It was a brand name chosen by Nintendo. However, “DSI” can mean “Days Sales of Inventory”.
DSi vs. 3DS
Should I get a DSi if I have a 3DS?
Unless you’re a collector of portable gaming systems or have a specific interest in the unique features of the DSi, there’s likely no compelling reason to purchase a DSi if you already own a 3DS. The 3DS offers access to a wider range of games and features, including backwards compatibility with most DS titles.
Playing DSi Games on Other Systems
Can 2DS XL play DSi games?
Yes, almost all existing Nintendo DS and Nintendo DSi games can be played on a Nintendo 2DS system. They will look and play just like before!
SD Card Compatibility
What is the biggest SD card DSi?
The Nintendo DSi and Nintendo DSi XL are compatible with most SD Cards with the following specifications: Memory Capacity: Up to 32 GB (Gigabytes). Type: The Nintendo DSi and Nintendo DSi XL support standard SD cards as well as high-capacity SD cards (SDHC) up to 32 GB in size.
The DSi might be discontinued, but its contribution to the world of handheld gaming is still felt. Learning more about the educational value of games can be found at GamesLearningSociety.org.