Nintendo Announces Closure Date for 3DS and Wii U Online Services
Nintendo has recently revealed the official date and time for the discontinuation of online services for 3DS and Wii U software. On April 8th, 2024, at 4 PM PT / 7 PM ET, players will unfortunately no longer have access to online features for these systems. In Japan, the shutdown will occur on the morning of April 9th at 9 AM.
It is crucial for users of these consoles to heed an important warning from Nintendo. If you happen to have any unused eShop balance tied to a Nintendo Network ID, you must take action before March 11th at 10 PM PT to link your wallet with a Nintendo Account. By doing so, you can ensure that these funds will not go to waste and can instead be utilized to purchase items for use with the Nintendo Switch. Even if you do not currently own a Switch, you still have the option to create an account and merge the funds.
While the online services themselves will be discontinued, it’s not all doom and gloom. Nintendo has made it clear that certain features will still remain available. Players will retain the ability to download update data and access purchased software and downloadable content from the Nintendo eShop. Unfortunately, online play, leaderboards, SpotPass services, and the popular Nintendo Badge Arcade will no longer be accessible.
Nintendo’s decision to end online services for the 3DS and Wii U comes as no surprise, considering the underperformance of the Wii U console in terms of sales. With only around 13 million units sold, it struggled to capture the attention of gamers worldwide. On the other hand, the Nintendo 3DS experienced much greater success, boasting approximately 75 million units sold from its launch in 2010 until its discontinuation in 2020.
As Nintendo forges ahead, it’s evident that their focus lies heavily on newer platforms like the Nintendo Switch. While the 3DS and Wii U may lose their online functionality, players can find solace in the fact that they can still immerse themselves in the wonderful world of gaming offline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why is Nintendo shutting down the online services for the 3DS and Wii U?
Nintendo’s decision to discontinue online services for the 3DS and Wii U is likely due to the focus on newer platforms such as the Nintendo Switch. The low sales performance of the Wii U may have also contributed to this decision.
2. Can I still access my purchased software and downloadable content after the online services shut down?
Yes, you will still be able to access your purchased software and downloadable content from the Nintendo eShop even after the online services are discontinued.
3. What will happen to my unused eShop balance tied to a Nintendo Network ID?
If you have any unused eShop balance tied to a Nintendo Network ID, you have until March 11th at 10 PM PT to link your wallet with a Nintendo Account. By doing so, you can use these funds to purchase items for use with the Nintendo Switch.
4. Will I still be able to play online with friends on the 3DS and Wii U after the online services shut down?
Unfortunately, online play will no longer be accessible once the online services for the 3DS and Wii U are discontinued.
Sources:
Nintendo: https://www.nintendo.com/
The source of the article is from the blog shakirabrasil.info