The 2011-released Nintendo 3DS revolutionized handheld gaming thanks to its glasses-free 3D technology. Nintendo’s Wii U, which made its debut in 2012, featured a unique gaming concept and supported asymmetrical gameplay thanks to its state-of-the-art Gamepad controller. supplying a huge selection of games, such as Mario, Zelda, and Super Mario 3D World.
Nintendo has a lengthy history of developing original consoles. The 3DS handheld gaming system belongs to the successful category, whereas the Wii U home console is one of the unfortunate latter. As of “early April” 2024, Nintendo has declared that it will stop supporting “online play and other functionality” for the 3DS and Wii U.
Nintendo is ending online services for the 3DS and Wii U pic.twitter.com/HEEtQ6vZ3a
— Dexerto (@Dexerto) October 4, 2023
“In early April 2024, online play and other functionality that uses online communication will end for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software. This also includes online cooperative play, internet rankings, and data distribution. Please note that if an event occurs that would make it difficult to continue online services for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software, we may have to discontinue services earlier than planned.” said Nintendo in an official confirmation.
The store going down was one thing, but this is genuinely sad.
— bunnimoni (@bunnimoniOW) October 4, 2023
As Nintendo makes clear, while the majority of games will continue to run after the shutdown, those that depend on online multiplayer and demand a constant internet connection will no longer have access to a server.
Fans upset at the death of 3DS and Wii U
The eShops for the 3DS and Wii U have been open, showing how passionate their supporters are about these devices. This fan has refused to let these businesses close down, even though the 3DS and Wii U eShops had already closed on March 27
https://x.com/RyanEvansESPN/status/1709561041594585419?s=20
Fans of these cherished gaming consoles have experienced a surge of nostalgia and disappointment since the announcement of the retirement of the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U. The 3DS and Wii U were more than simply gaming consoles to many players; they also conjured up fond memories of their youth and hours of fun.
Similar to the Wii U, which featured some of Nintendo’s most innovative and creative games, like “Super Mario Maker” and “Splatoon,” despite its disappointing commercial success. With its distinctive GamePad controller, it provided a novel gaming experience.
Following Nintendo’s announced closing of the 3DS and Wii U eShops, it is “no longer possible” to make purchases. One small caveat for disgruntled players: it will still be possible to obtain updated data, and redownload previously purchased software. However, gamers who grew up with these venerable platforms will always have a particular place in their hearts for the 3DS and Wii U.