Today, handheld gaming consoles are more popular than ever. This technology began going mainstream in 2016 with the Nintendo Switch, and today it is followed by products like the Steam Deck and Asus ROG Ally. In fact, Nintendo is even working on the Switch 2. However, did you know that the Switch, which ignited all this frenzy, wasn’t the first modern handheld by its developer?

The Japanese manufacturer has been part of the market for a long time with consoles like the 3DS and Wii U. Especially the 3DS, which was a massive success with user numbers in the millions. Yet, despite all this, Nintendo announced that the online services for the Wii U and 3DS will shut down in April. Here are the details…

Nintendo’s Wii U and 3DS online services will shut down in April

Nintendo has announced that it will be shutting down online services for the Wii U and 3DS in early April 2024. This includes all multiplayer features, internet rankings, and data distribution. Nintendo has not yet announced a specific shutdown date, but it has said that players will be able to download patches and redownload games purchased from the eShop “for the foreseeable future.” From April 2024 onwards, players will no longer be able to access:

  • Online multiplayer capabilities
  • Internet rankings
  • Data distribution mechanisms
  • StreetPass Mii Plaza features that demand online communication
  • The Pokémon Bank (excluding the transfer feature to Pokémon Home)

Nevertheless, not all online features will vanish. Gamers will still have the privilege to:

  • Play games offline
  • Utilize StreetPass (barring the online-required StreetPass Mii Plaza features)
  • Use SpotPass
  • Download software updates and DLCs
  • Purchase digital games and downloadable content (DLC) via the eShop

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