Nintendo ended online play and other online-communication features for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software at 5 p.m. PDT on April 8, 2024. The shutdown is complete: offline modes and local StreetPass remain usable, but online multiplayer, SpotPass features and other affected services no longer work. The same shutdown fell on April 9 in Japan and Australia because of local time differences.
When did Nintendo 3DS and Wii U online play end?
Nintendo of America set the shutdown for 5 p.m. PDT on April 8, 2024. Nintendo’s Japanese notice listed 9 a.m. JST on April 9, while Nintendo Australia listed 10 a.m. AEST on April 9. These are regional times for the same shutdown, not separate service end dates. Nintendo of America’s announcement, Nintendo’s Japanese notice, and Nintendo Australia’s notice provide the regional details.
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Nintendo 3DS - Flame Red (Renewed) | $220.10 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Nintendo 3DS Handheld System - Aqua Blue (Renewed) | $219.95 | Buy on Amazon |
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Nintendo 3DS - Cosmo Black (Renewed) [video game] | $217.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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Nintendo 3DS Handheld System - Cosmo Black (Renewed) | $215.15 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
![Nintendo 3DS XL Handheld System - Black/Blue (Renewed) [Nintendo DS]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/316whGNkIZL._SL160_.jpg)
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Nintendo 3DS XL Handheld System - Black/Blue (Renewed) [Nintendo DS] | $275.00 | Buy on Amazon |
What stopped working?
Nintendo discontinued online play and other functions using online communication for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software, including software exclusive to New Nintendo 3DS. That scope includes online cooperative play, internet rankings and data distribution, not just competitive multiplayer. Nintendo also noted that service availability could vary for some third-party software; its announcement directs players to the relevant publisher for those titles’ service status. Nintendo’s shutdown announcement
Can you still play 3DS and Wii U games offline?
Yes. Nintendo says features and game modes that do not require online communication remain usable. What remains available depends on the game: offline modes are not affected simply because online services ended, but any feature that depends on an internet connection is unavailable if its service was discontinued. Check a game’s own modes and requirements rather than assuming that every feature works offline. Nintendo’s support Q&A
The Tool Desk
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- Features: 3D Depth Slider, Wi-Fi Capability, Nintendo 3DS Sound, Mii Maker, 3D Camera, Front & Rear Camera, Touch Screen
- Includes: AC Power Adapter, Stylus
- Wired Connectivity: Wireless
- Model Compatibility: Nintendo 3DS
Does StreetPass still work? What about SpotPass?
They use different kinds of communication. StreetPass exchanges data locally between nearby Nintendo 3DS systems, so Nintendo said it remained available after online services ended. SpotPass relies on online communication; SpotPass features therefore stopped. Nintendo gives receiving new Puzzle Swap panels as an example of a feature that was no longer available. Nintendo’s explanation of StreetPass and SpotPass
Can you still buy or redownload 3DS and Wii U games?
The eShop sales cutoff was separate from the online-play shutdown and happened earlier. Purchases and downloads of demos and free content ended on March 27, 2023. At the time of its support announcement, Nintendo said previously purchased software and downloadable content could still be redownloaded, and update data could still be downloaded “for the foreseeable future.” That was a qualified statement about continued availability—not a guarantee of permanent access. Nintendo’s eShop discontinuation FAQ and its online-services announcement
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What about Pokémon Bank and Poké Transporter?
Nintendo’s shutdown FAQ listed Pokémon Bank and Poké Transporter as services that remained online when the FAQ was published, while warning that they could end in the future. That notice does not establish their current status. Check Nintendo’s and The Pokémon Company’s current service information before relying on either app.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- This Certified Refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The resulting product includes all relevant accessories, comes
- 3D Entertainment Without Glasses- Nintendo 3DS games have incredible graphics, and you can turn down the 3D effect to any level, or turn it off completely at any time with the build-in 3D depth slider to play games in crisp, clear 2D
- Two Screens- A widescreen display on the top screen shows 800x240 pixel resolution, allocating 400*pixles for each eye to create the 3D effect. The bottom LCD touch screen operates at a resolution of 320*240
- 3D Photos, Plus More- Nintendo 3DS comes built-in with the ability to take photos in 3D. Capture eye popping images of your friends and family, have fun with filters like the Merge lens, or even use the system's AR technology and included AR Cards
Rank #4
- Item Package Dimension- 8.49999999133L x 6.099999993778W x 2.399999997552H inches
- Item Package Weight - 0.9499999992033387 Pounds
- Item Package Quantity - 1
- Product Type - VIDEO GAME CONSOLE
Rank #3
- Nintendo 3DS offers a new way to play, 3D without the need for special glasses. The 3D Depth Slider lets your determine how much 3D you want to see.
- Play 3D games and take 3D pictures with Nintendo 3DS. One inner camera and two outer cameras. Resolutions are 640 x 480 for each camera. Lens are single focus and uses the CMOS capture element.
- Connect to a deeper wireless experience with SpotPass and StreetPass, giving you more exclusive content and connecting you with other Nintendo 3DS users.
- Complete with an adjustable stylus, 6 AR cards, and fun built-in software such as Face Raiders, Nintendo 3DS Sound, and the Mii Maker application.
- Use Parental Controls to restrict 3D mode for children 6 and under.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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