Will I still be able to download my 3DS games?

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Will I still be able to download my 3DS games?

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As of March 27th, 2023, the Nintendo eShop for the Nintendo 3DS officially closed, but you will still be able to redownload games and DLC that you have previously purchased for the foreseeable future. This means that if you have already bought 3DS games or DLC, you can still access and play them, although the ability to make new purchases has been discontinued.

FAQs about 3DS Games and the eShop Closure

General Information

  1. Can I still play 3DS online in 2023?: No, as of early April 2024, online play and other functionality that uses online communication will end for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software.
  2. Are Nintendo 3DS servers still up?: The Nintendo 3DS and Wii U online services will be discontinued in early April 2024, affecting online co-operative play, internet rankings, and data distribution.
  3. Will you be able to redownload eShop games?: Yes, games that have been archived will still have an icon on the HOME Menu and can be redownloaded by anyone on the console.

eShop and Purchases

  1. Can I download games I’ve purchased after the eShop closes?: Yes, you can redownload games, apps, themes, and special demos, but normal demos will not be available for redownload.
  2. What happens to 3DS digital games?: Although the eShop is closed, you can still redownload games you’ve already bought and play them, but new purchases are no longer possible.
  3. Can you still use Pokebank after the eShop closes?: Yes, Pokémon Bank is one of the few titles that will remain usable even after the online play shutdown in April 2024.

Modding and Customization

  1. Can I mod my 3DS after the eShop closes?: Yes, you can still mod your 3DS, and it will not affect your ability to redownload games or play physical cartridges.
  2. Is it legal to jailbreak a 3DS?: While jailbreaking a 3DS is perfectly legal, using it to pirate games is illegal.
  3. Can a modded 3DS still play games?: Yes, consoles with custom firmware can still play online and run physical cartridges as any other 3DS can.

Account and Device Management

  1. What if I lose my 3DS?: If you lose your 3DS, you can unlink your NNID from the lost console and sign in on a new 3DS to redownload your games.
  2. Should I wipe my 3DS before selling it?: Yes, to protect your personal information, you should securely remove all personally-identifiable information from the 3DS before selling it.
  3. How do I get money on my 3DS?: You can add funds to your 3DS using a credit card, Nintendo eShop Card, or, in some regions, a PayPal account.

Technical Support and Updates

  1. Can you still update 3DS games in 2023?: Yes, even after the eShop closure, you can still redownload games and DLC, receive software updates, and enjoy online play for the foreseeable future.
  2. Why can’t I download games from the Nintendo eShop?: Common issues include insufficient storage space on your console, so ensure you have enough space before attempting to download games.
  3. Can 3DS still connect to Wi-Fi?: Yes, your 3DS can still connect to Wi-Fi networks, allowing you to access online features and download games you’ve previously purchased.

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