Nintendo has announced that it will be shutting down online servers for 3DS and Wii U games in early April 2024, marking the end of online play and other functionalities that rely on online communication. The only exception to this shutdown is Pokémon Bank, which will remain online for the time being, but may also be discontinued in the future. The announcement came in a tweet and an update on Nintendo’s support website, thanking players for their support and apologizing for any inconvenience caused.
While games can still be played offline on these platforms, the shutdown of online services is not unexpected, considering the end of the Switch’s lifecycle and the closure of the eShops for both the Wii U and 3DS in March 2023. However, Nintendo has reassured fans that it will continue producing new games until at least 2025 and there are reports suggesting the release of a next-gen console in the second half of 2024.
Overall, this announcement signals the end of an era for the 3DS and Wii U consoles, as Nintendo prepares to focus on its future endeavors. Players are encouraged to enjoy the remaining online functionalities and to stay tuned for further updates regarding the specific shutdown date of these services.
