I remember the day I found out that the Nintendo 3DS was being discontinued. It was a bittersweet moment for me as a long-time fan of the handheld console. The 3DS had brought me countless hours of joy with its unique 3D capabilities and a library of amazing games.
The news came from an official announcement by Nintendo, stating that the eShop for the 3DS, along with the Wii U eShop, would be discontinued in late March 2023. This meant that access to a wide range of digital content would be cut off, and any games or DLC that could only be found on these platforms would no longer be available for purchase or download.
For me, this was especially disappointing because there were still a few games on the 3DS that I had been meaning to try out. I had always been a fan of the handheld’s portable nature and its ability to provide unique gaming experiences. It was sad to think that I would no longer have the opportunity to explore those titles.
The 3DS had a long and successful run since its release in 2011. It had a robust library of games, including popular titles like “Pokémon Sun and Moon,” “The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds,” and “Fire Emblem: Awakening.” These games, along with many others, had become staples in the handheld gaming community.
However, as time went on, it became clear that Nintendo was shifting its focus to the Nintendo Switch, its hybrid console that offered both handheld and home console gaming experiences. The success of the Switch led to a decline in support for the 3DS, and eventually, its discontinuation.
While it was a logical move for Nintendo to focus on its newer console, it still felt like the end of an era. The 3DS was a beloved device that had a special place in the hearts of many gamers. Its unique features, like the dual-screen setup and the ability to play games in 3D without glasses, made it stand out from other handheld consoles.
Personally, the 3DS holds a lot of memories for me. I remember playing “Animal Crossing: New Leaf” for hours on end, creating my own little virtual town and interacting with its quirky residents. I also had countless battles in “Pokémon Omega Ruby” and “Alpha Sapphire,” catching and training Pokémon to become the very best.
It’s hard to say goodbye to a console that has brought so much joy and entertainment. But as technology advances and new consoles take their place, it’s a natural progression in the world of gaming. While the discontinuation of the 3DS and Wii U eShops may be disappointing for some, it’s important to remember the incredible experiences and memories we had with these consoles.
So, in late March 2023, the eShops for the Wii U and Nintendo 3DS will be discontinued, marking the end of an era for these beloved platforms. It’s a reminder to cherish the moments we had with them and to look forward to the future of gaming.