Can you still download owned games on 3DS?

Can You Still Download Owned Games on 3DS?

As of March 27, 2023, the Nintendo 3DS eShop officially closed its doors, bringing an end to new purchases and downloads. But what about existing games? Can you still download and play the games you already own on your 3DS? The answer is a resounding yes.

Redownloading Previously Purchased Games

According to Nintendo, you can still redownload previously purchased games and DLC for the foreseeable future. This means that even if the eShop is no longer available, you can still access and play your existing library of games. This is a relief for many 3DS owners who have invested in the console and its games.

How to Redownload Your Games

To redownload your games, follow these steps:

1. Make sure you have a stable internet connection.
2. Open the Nintendo 3DS Home Menu.
3. Select the game you want to redownload.
4. Choose "Redownload" or "Re-download".
5. Wait for the game to download and install.

Important Notes

• Only previously purchased games can be redownloaded. You cannot redownload demos or other non-purchased content.
• You need to have a valid Nintendo 3DS account and login credentials to redownload your games.
• Make sure your 3DS system is updated to the latest firmware to ensure compatibility.

Are 3DS Games Tied to the Console?

One common question is whether 3DS games are tied to the console. The answer is yes, to a certain extent. Purchases made through the Nintendo eShop are tied to the system that they were purchased from. This means that if you purchase a game on one 3DS console, you won’t be able to redownload it on another console without contacting Nintendo’s customer service.

Transferring Games Between Consoles

If you need to transfer games between consoles, you can do so by:

1. Backing up your games using the Nintendo 3DS Backup Utility.
2. Restoring the games on the new console.

What Happens to eShop Cards and Download Codes?

As of August 29, 2022, it is no longer possible to use a Nintendo eShop Card to add funds to an account in Nintendo eShop on Wii U or the Nintendo 3DS family of systems. As of April 3, 2023, it is no longer possible to redeem download codes in Nintendo eShop on Wii U or the Nintendo 3DS family of systems. If you have any unused eShop cards or download codes, make sure to redeem them before they expire.

Will There be a 4DS?

As of now, there is no official word on a potential 4DS console. The Nintendo Switch has taken the spotlight as the company’s flagship handheld console, and it’s unclear whether a new 3DS successor will be released in the future.

Conclusion

In conclusion, yes, you can still download and play the games you own on your 3DS console, even after the eShop closure. Make sure to redownload your games before they become unavailable and take advantage of the ability to transfer games between consoles. If you have any unused eShop cards or download codes, be sure to redeem them before they expire. And who knows, maybe a new 4DS console will be announced in the future!