The Nintendo 3DS and Wii U online services will be discontinued by early April 2024. Read more to learn about the end of online services, the exceptions to this, and the future of Nintendo devices.
Nintendo 3DS and Wii U Online Gameplay and Services Will End April 2024
No More Online Play
In a significant development for the gaming community, Nintendo has officially declared that online services for the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U consoles will come to an end in early April 2024. This decision encompasses various features such as online play, internet rankings, and data distribution, affecting a range of Nintendo devices, including the New Nintendo 3DS, New Nintendo 2DS XL, and Wii U Deluxe.
Nintendo further clarifies that it will still be possible to download updates, purchased software, and downloadable content from Nintendo eShop. For the Nintendo 3DS family systems, the StressPass will still be available, but SpotPass features will no longer be supported as it uses online communication.
Pokemon Bank and Poke Transporter Still Usable
Amid the closure of online services for these beloved gaming platforms, there is a silver lining for Pokémon enthusiasts. Nintendo has confirmed that Pokémon Bank and Poké Transporter will continue to be functional even after the general discontinuation of online services. However, Nintendo hints that these services may also end at some point in the future.
It is recommended that players transfer their beloved pokemon over to Pokemon Home while support for Pokemon Bank still exists. Take note however that moving from Pokemon Bank to Pokemon HOME is only available in the Premium Plan.
End of an Era
- Photo by @supermmairoland on Twitter
Earlier this year, Nintendo officially closed the eShop for the Wii U system and Nintendo 3DS family of systems. While users cannot buy any new games, those who already own games may still redownload their purchased games.
While Nintendo pulls the plug on its earlier consoles, it reiterates that it plans on supporting its current console, the Nintendo Switch, until March of 2025.
