What Happens When the 3DS Store Closes?
The Nintendo 3DS eShop, a digital storefront for the Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo 2DS handheld consoles, will be closing its doors on March 27, 2023. This means that users will no longer be able to purchase new games, DLC, or in-game content. But what exactly happens when the 3DS store closes? In this article, we’ll break down the key points to help you understand what’s changing and what’s staying the same.
Can You Still Mod a 3DS After the eShop Closes?
The short answer is yes, you can still mod your 3DS after the eShop closes. Modding refers to the process of hacking or customizing your console to gain access to unauthorized content or features. While the eShop will be shutting down, the ability to mod your 3DS will not be affected.
Can You Redownload 3DS Games After the eShop Closes?
Yes, you can still redownload games you’ve purchased after the eShop closes. According to Nintendo, users will still be able to redownload games, apps, themes, and special demos. However, normal demos will not be available for redownload.
Will You Lose Your Pokémon if Pokebank Expires?
If your Pokémon Bank trial pass or annual pass expires, you will lose access to your Pokémon. However, the Pokémon Company has urged players to transfer their Pokémon to Pokémon Home or Pokémon Bank before the service shuts down.
Is Pokémon Bank Ending?
Yes, Pokémon Bank will still be available after the eShop closes, but the service may be discontinued at a later date. Players are strongly advised to transfer their Pokémon to Pokémon Home or Pokémon Bank before the service shuts down.
Can You Still Play 3DS Online After the eShop Closes?
No, online play and other functionality that uses online communication will end for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software in April 2024. This means that online co-operative play, internet rankings, and data distribution will no longer be available.
Can You Have 2 3DS with the Same Account?
No, it is not possible to link the same Nintendo Network account to multiple Wii U or multiple Nintendo 3DS family systems at the same time.
Is Nintendo Killing the 3DS?
While the eShop is shutting down, the Nintendo 3DS console itself will still be supported. Nintendo will continue to provide system updates and security patches for the console, but online features and services will no longer be available.
Table: Key Dates and Changes
| Date | Change |
|---|---|
| March 27, 2023 | 3DS eShop closes |
| April 2024 | Online play and other functionality ends for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software |
| Unknown | Pokémon Bank service may be discontinued |
Conclusion
The closure of the 3DS eShop marks the end of an era for Nintendo fans. While some features and services will no longer be available, users will still be able to play and mod their 3DS consoles. It’s essential to transfer your Pokémon to Pokémon Home or Pokémon Bank before the service shuts down and to take advantage of the remaining time to redownload games and content.