Will You Be Able to Update 3DS Games After eShop Closes?
The Nintendo eShop, which is responsible for the digital distribution of Nintendo’s games, including those for the 3DS and Wii U, is set to close permanently on March 27, 2023, in the West, and March 28, 2023, in Japan. As the eShop’s curtains draw to a close, gamers are left wondering what will happen to their 3DS games. Will they still be able to receive updates and patches after the eShop closes?
The Answer: Yes, But With Some Restrictions
According to Nintendo, you will still be able to redownload games you have already purchased and play online after the eShop closes. However, you will no longer be able to make new purchases, and online play may be affected if servers are shut down. But don’t worry, your existing games will continue to function as normal, with a few exceptions.
Existing Software Updates
While you won’t be able to download new software updates, you will still be able to receive existing updates that are already in the pipeline. These updates will be delivered automatically to your 3DS, so you won’t have to lift a finger. However, any future updates will be dependent on server availability, which may not always be guaranteed.
DLC and Downloadable Content
What about downloadable content (DLC) and add-ons for your 3DS games? You will still be able to download existing DLC, but you won’t be able to purchase new DLC or downloads after the eShop closes. If you already have DLC, you’ll be able to access it as normal, but if you’re looking to get new content, you’ll need to hold out hope that the developer decides to release it independently or as part of a bundle.
Pokémon Bank and Poke Transporter
One question on everyone’s mind is what will happen to Pokémon Bank and Poke Transporter, two popular apps that allow you to store and transfer your Pokémon between games. Despite the eShop’s demise, Pokémon Bank and Poke Transporter will still work normally, allowing you to continue accessing your Pokémon without any issues.
Offline Play
Another important aspect to consider is offline play. If you’ve already downloaded a game and its associated DLC, you’ll be able to play offline, even after the eShop closes. This means you won’t need an internet connection to play your 3DS games, providing a convenient solution for gamers on-the-go.
Summary Table
Here’s a summary of what you can expect after the eShop closes:
| Aspect | What You Can Do |
|---|---|
| Redownload Games | Yes, but only games you’ve already purchased |
| Online Play | Yes, but may be affected if servers are shut down |
| Software Updates | Yes, but only existing updates will be delivered automatically |
| DLC and Downloads | Yes, but only existing DLC can be downloaded; no new purchases can be made |
| Pokémon Bank and Poke Transporter | Yes, they will continue to work normally |
| Offline Play | Yes, if you’ve already downloaded a game and its DLC |
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the eShop’s closure marks the end of an era, your existing 3DS games will continue to function as normal, with a few exceptions. You’ll still be able to redownload games, receive existing software updates, and access DLC and online features. Just remember that no new purchases can be made, and online play may be affected if servers are shut down. So, hold on to your 3DS games and get ready to continue playing offline or online, whenever the mood strikes!