Nintendo has always moved forward with new hardware very quickly. Ascertaining a new system to depreciate the old one is natural for all companies. Much like how Microsoft discontinued the original Xbox Live 10 years ago, Nintendo is doing the same. While the Wii shop service was taken down earlier this year, it seems the same will be done for other systems. Hoping to drive more digital sales towards their latest console, Nintendo announced the discontinuation of the WiiU and 3DS Eshop earlier this year. While credit card sales have been stopped for some months, many were still uncertain about the vague timeframe. Now, Nintendo has confirmed the 3DS and WiiU Eshop closure will begin on March 27th, 2023.
Updates on the discontinuation of #eShop for Wii U and Nintendo 3DS family systems:
– As of 8/29/2022, it will no longer be possible to add funds.
– As of 3/27/2023, purchases will no longer be available.
More details:https://t.co/T1GJfjxYMF
— Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) July 19, 2022
When Will Nintendo End 3DS and WiiU Eshop Store Downloads?
While the news isn’t shocking due to the previous timeframe of late March, Nintendo does confirm that the stores will remain online to allow for redownloads of purchased titles. Much like how the Wii shop operates today, many were concerned when the service was temporarily offline. Yet, this was only some extended maintenance. While the news on when those services will eventually end is unclear, it’s certainly coming at one point or another. Considering that the Wii has yet to do this, hopefully, there’s a longevity plan in place to keep them operable. While Nintendo Switch Online offers a variety of titles previously available for purchase on older systems, many wish for the range of titles available before. Despite NSO adding titles over time, the entire offerings from even the Wii shop will more than likely never be replicated again. Be sure to check back for more news on the WiiU and 3DS eshop closures.
What do you think about the WiiU and 3DS Eshop closures on March 27th? Let us know in the comments down below!
