Can I move your 3DS games to a new 3DS?

Can I Move Your 3DS Games to a New 3DS?

Are you planning to upgrade your Nintendo 3DS console to a newer model, or perhaps lending or selling your current 3DS to someone else? You may be wondering if it’s possible to transfer your games and data from your old 3DS to the new one. The answer is yes, and it’s relatively easy to do so.

Before You Start

Before attempting to transfer your games, it’s essential to note that the Nintendo 3DS family of consoles (3DS, 3DS XL, and New 3DS) share the same technology and are compatible with each other. However, the transfer process is different for transferring games between the original 3DS and the New 3DS XL. We’ll cover both scenarios separately.

Transferring Games using System Transfer

System transfer allows you to transfer your games and data directly from one 3DS console to another. This method is straightforward and doesn’t require any additional software or cables.

To Transfer Games via System Transfer:

1. Make sure both consoles are turned off.
2. Turn on the original 3DS and select the Nintendo eShop icon from the HOME Menu.
3. Select Settings / Other and then Transfer.
4. Select the transfer mode: Receive from 3DS on the receiving console (new 3DS) and Send from this System on the original 3DS.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the transfer process.

Note: This method transfers all game data, including saves and DLC, from one console to another.

Transferring Games using Redownload

This method is used when you no longer have access to the original 3DS or Wii U console. You’ll need to transfer the game licenses to your new 3DS console using the Nintendo eShop.

To Transfer Games via Redownload:

1. Turn on the new 3DS and access the Nintendo eShop.
2. Select the game you want to transfer and click Download.
3. Select Download Later and then View download history.
4. Scroll through the list and find the game you want to transfer.
5. Click Download Now to download the game to your new 3DS.

Note: Redownloading games does not transfer saved data, so you’ll need to retrieve your saved games separately (explained below).

Retrieving Saved Games

If you no longer have access to the original 3DS console, you’ll need to retrieve your saved game data manually.

To Retrieve Saved Games:

1. Connect the original 3DS to your computer using an SD card reader or USB cable.
2. Use a file explorer to navigate to the Nintendo 3DS folder on the SD card or internal memory.
3. Copy the savdata folder (this contains your saved game data) to a computer storage device (e.g., an SD card or external hard drive).
4. Repeat the process on the new 3DS console by copying the savdata folder to the correct location on the internal memory or SD card.

Additional Tips and Considerations:

• Make sure both consoles have the same Nintendo Network ID and Nintendo eShop account login.
• If you have purchased games or DLC (downloadable content) using one account, you’ll need to link both accounts to the same Nintendo Network ID before transferring games.
• You may need to reactivate DLC purchases on the new 3DS console.

Conclusion

Transferring 3DS games to a new console is a relatively straightforward process, with a few considerations to keep in mind. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily transfer your games and data to your new 3DS console and enjoy seamless gameplay without interruptions.

Key Takeaways:

• System transfer is the recommended method for transferring games between 3DS consoles with the same account.
• Redownloading games is an option when no longer having access to the original console.
• Retrieved saved games separately by copying the savdata folder to a computer storage device.

I hope you found this article helpful in transferring your 3DS games to a new 3DS console. If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.