Why can’t i link my Nintendo Network ID to my 3DS?
You can’t link your Nintendo Network ID to your 3DS if the NNID is set to restrict off-device usage, or if you are not entering your Nintendo Network ID or password correctly. To resolve this issue, access your NNID settings on a Wii U or Nintendo 3DS family system, and verify that the NNID is set to allow Usage from PCs and Other Devices (Wii U) or Non-Nintendo Device Setting (Nintendo 3DS).
Understanding Nintendo Network ID Linking Issues
To link your Nintendo Network ID to your 3DS, select System Settings from the HOME Menu, then select Nintendo Network ID Settings, and follow the on-screen instructions to create a new ID or sign in to an existing one.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I set up Nintendo Network ID on my 3DS?
To set up your Nintendo Network ID on your 3DS, select System Settings from the HOME Menu, then select Nintendo Network ID Settings, and follow the on-screen instructions to create a new ID or sign in to an existing one.
How do I fix authentication error on Nintendo Network ID?
If you encounter an authentication error on your Nintendo Network ID, go to the system’s HOME menu, select System Settings, then select Nintendo Network ID Settings, and sign in with your Nintendo Network ID and password.
Can I use the same Nintendo Network ID on multiple 3DS systems?
No, you cannot register the same Nintendo Network ID on more than one Nintendo 3DS system, as your Nintendo Network ID is tied to your software and/or additional content you have purchased and downloaded.
How do I reset my Nintendo Network ID on my 3DS?
To reset your Nintendo Network ID on your 3DS, select System Settings from the HOME Menu, select Nintendo Network ID Settings, and when prompted to enter your password, select I forgot.
Does formatting 3DS remove Nintendo ID?
Yes, formatting your Nintendo 3DS family system will remove the Nintendo Network ID, allowing you to link a different one or create a new one.
What happens if you change Nintendo Network ID on 3DS?
Nintendo 3DS family systems can only support one Nintendo Network ID at a time, but you can format the system to deactivate the current NNID and create a new one, without deleting existing accounts or purchases.
Do you need a Nintendo Network ID for eShop 3DS?
No, a Nintendo Network ID is not required to purchase paid downloadable content from Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS.
Why can’t I link an existing Nintendo Network ID?
You may not be able to link an existing Nintendo Network ID if you are not entering your Nintendo Network ID or password correctly, or if the NNID is restricted from off-device usage.
How do I link Nintendo Network ID?
To link your Nintendo Network ID, go to the Nintendo Account website, sign in to your Nintendo Account, select User information, then Linked accounts, and follow the on-screen instructions.
Is the Nintendo Network ID still active?
Although Nintendo Network IDs are still active, Nintendo will halt the service to transfer remaining balances from 3DS or Wii U consoles to Switch consoles on March 2024.
Where is the network ID on a 3DS?
On a linked system in the Nintendo 3DS family, you can find your Nintendo Network ID by opening System Settings, then Nintendo Network ID Settings, where your ID will be displayed on the sign-in screen, just below your nickname.
How do I create a Nintendo Network ID 2023?
To create a Nintendo Network ID in 2023, go to the Nintendo Account website, click Sign in/Create account, then Create a Nintendo Account, and follow the on-screen instructions.
Can you link a Nintendo Network ID after the eShop closes?
Yes, you can still link your Nintendo Account and NNID, merge funds on your Nintendo Account on PC, and add gift cards to your Nintendo Account on PC, even after the eShop closes.
Can you have 2 Nintendo Network IDs?
No, only one NNID can be linked to a Nintendo Account, and you cannot register the same Nintendo Network ID on multiple Nintendo 3DS systems.
Can you merge two Nintendo Network IDs?
No, Nintendo is unable to combine two different Nintendo Accounts together into one, but you can link up to 8 Nintendo Accounts to a single Nintendo Switch console.
Is 3DS network ID the same as Switch?
No, Nintendo 3DS and Wii U use Nintendo Network IDs, while the Nintendo Switch uses a distinct infrastructure called Nintendo Accounts.
What happens if you delete network ID on 3DS?
If you delete your Nintendo Network ID on your 3DS, Nintendo eShop purchases, StreetPass data, DLC, and other extra data will be deleted and cannot be recovered.
Will I lose my games if I delete my Nintendo Network ID?
Yes, deleting your Nintendo Network ID will result in the loss of all associated purchases, DLC, and extra data, including eShop games and saves.
Will my Nintendo Account get banned if I hack my 3DS?
Using a hacked 3DS to play cartridge games online can result in your Nintendo Account being banned, as it violates the terms of service for online play.
Can your Nintendo Account get banned for modding 3DS?
Modding a 3DS console may pose some risks, but it is unlikely to result in a ban, unless you cheat while playing online.
Should you factory reset a 3DS before selling it?
Yes, it is recommended to securely remove all personally-identifiable information, including pictures and stored sensitive information, by formatting the system memory before selling your 3DS.
Is the Nintendo 3DS discontinued?
Yes, the Nintendo 3DS family hardware was officially discontinued on September 16, 2020, and the Nintendo eShop officially shut down on March 27, 2023.
What if the Nintendo Network ID has been deleted?
If your Nintendo Network ID has been deleted, there is no way to restore the account or associated licenses and funds, and you will need to create a new Nintendo Network ID on the console.
How do I verify my Nintendo Network ID?
To verify your Nintendo Network ID, access the Nintendo Network ID Settings, click the right arrow to reach page 2, select Email Confirmation, and follow the on-screen instructions to enter a confirmation code.