Will Nintendo Make a New 3DS? The Future of Handheld Gaming
The short answer is no, Nintendo will not be making any new 3DS systems. Production of the entire Nintendo 3DS family ended in September 2020. While the legacy of the 3DS lives on through its passionate fanbase and vast library of games, Nintendo has firmly shifted its focus to the Nintendo Switch and, very soon, its successor.
The End of an Era: Why the 3DS Was Discontinued
The Nintendo 3DS, launched in 2011, served as the successor to the wildly successful Nintendo DS. It brought glasses-free 3D gaming to the handheld market and boasted a robust library of titles that included both new intellectual properties and beloved franchise entries. However, with the arrival of the Nintendo Switch in 2017, which offered a hybrid home console and handheld experience, the 3DS began to fade into the background.
The Switch’s versatility, superior processing power, and focus on modern gaming experiences simply outshone the 3DS, leading Nintendo to eventually discontinue production of the older handheld. The closure of the 3DS eShop in March 2023 further cemented this transition, signifying the end of an era for digital game purchases on the platform. The end of online services in April 2024 means the console is now an offline-only experience.
The Legacy Lives On: Why the 3DS Still Matters
Despite its discontinuation, the Nintendo 3DS maintains a significant legacy. It boasts a library of hundreds of games, many of which are exclusive to the system and are considered classics. The innovative 3D feature, while divisive, offered a unique gaming experience. Additionally, the dual-screen design, inherited from the DS, provided developers with creative opportunities for gameplay mechanics.
The Games Learning Society (https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/) and other groups recognize the cultural impact of the 3DS and continue to study and celebrate its unique contributions to the world of video games. It also represents a unique and relatively affordable option for budget-conscious gamers who are looking for an extensive catalogue of games.
What’s Next for Nintendo? The Focus on Switch and Beyond
Nintendo is now fully committed to the Nintendo Switch. The hybrid console has proven to be a phenomenal success, bridging the gap between traditional home console gaming and portable play. With its vast library of games, including both first-party exclusives and third-party titles, the Switch caters to a wide range of players.
Furthermore, all signs point to a Switch successor being released in the near future. While Nintendo has not officially announced details, industry rumors and reports suggest that a new console is in development and could be launched as early as late 2024. This new console is expected to build upon the success of the Switch, offering improved performance and new features.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Nintendo 3DS
1. Is the Nintendo 3DS still worth buying in 2024?
Yes, if you’re interested in exploring its extensive library of games. While you can no longer purchase new digital games through the eShop, used physical copies are readily available. It is worth noting that online features ended as of April 2024, so it is now an offline experience.
2. Can I still play 3DS games online?
No. Online support for the Nintendo 3DS ended in April 2024. This includes online multiplayer, leaderboards, and other online features.
3. Are 3DS games available on the Nintendo Switch?
Some, but not all. Nintendo has been releasing enhanced versions of select 3DS titles on the Switch. But many classic 3DS games remain exclusive to the older handheld.
4. What are some of the best 3DS games?
Some of the most highly regarded 3DS games include The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds, Super Mario 3D Land, Pokémon X and Y/Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, Animal Crossing: New Leaf, and Fire Emblem: Awakening.
5. Is it possible to mod a 3DS?
Yes, the Nintendo 3DS has a thriving homebrew community. Modding a 3DS can allow you to run custom software, back up your game cartridges, and access other features. However, proceed with caution as modding can potentially brick your system if not done correctly.
6. Where can I buy used 3DS games?
Used 3DS games can be found at most game stores, online marketplaces like eBay and Amazon, and local classifieds.
7. Will Nintendo ever release a “4DS”?
There are no indications that Nintendo plans to release a console called “4DS”. The “4DS” name seems to be a fictitious entity conjured by online content creators. Nintendo is focused on the Switch and its successor.
8. What is the rarest 3DS game?
The value of rare 3DS games fluctuates, but some of the most sought-after titles include Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy, Yo-Kai Watch 2: Psychic Specters, and other limited-edition or niche releases.
9. Can I play DS games on a 3DS?
Yes. The Nintendo 3DS is backward compatible with Nintendo DS games, allowing you to play your old DS cartridges on the newer handheld.
10. What are the different 3DS models?
The 3DS family includes the original Nintendo 3DS, the Nintendo 3DS XL, the Nintendo 2DS, and the New Nintendo 3DS and New Nintendo 3DS XL (featuring improved performance and additional features).
11. Why did Nintendo discontinue the Wii U?
The Wii U was discontinued due to its poor sales performance. It failed to gain traction with consumers, partly due to confusing marketing and a limited game library. The Nintendo Switch eventually replaced the Wii U.
12. Will the Nintendo Switch have DS games available on it?
While the Nintendo Switch does not natively support DS game cartridges, many DS games have been remastered or made available digitally on the Switch eShop.
13. What does the “DS” in Nintendo DS stand for?
The “DS” in Nintendo DS stands for “Developers’ System” or “Dual Screen”.
14. Is the Nintendo 2DS still being manufactured?
No, production of the Nintendo 2DS was discontinued in 2020, along with the rest of the 3DS family.
15. What is Nintendo working on now?
Nintendo is primarily focused on supporting the Nintendo Switch with new games and updates. They are also developing a new console, widely believed to be the Switch’s successor, with a potential release in late 2024 or early 2025.