Nintendo announces termination of online services for Wii U and 3DS systems, effective this April

In a recent update, Nintendo has announced the discontinuation of its online services for the Wii U and 3DS platforms, effective this April onwards. While users will retain the ability to download purchased software and receive updates for the foreseeable future, online play and related functionalities will cease to be available after April 8th at 4 pm PDT.

This termination encompasses various features, such as online play and rankings, impacting the Nintendo Wii U and 3DS platforms. Nintendo has provided additional details in a FAQ section to address user concerns. Notably, StreetPass will remain functional post-termination, since it solely relies on local communication between 3DS family systems. However, SpotPass - which is dependent on online communications - will no longer be operational.

The company also clarified that certain online services, like Pokemon Bank and Poke Transporter will continue to be operational beyond the aforementioned termination date. Yet, the company states that there is a possibility that these services may face discontinuation in the future. Nintendo's official statement can be found below.

Thank you very much for supporting our products.

At 4pm PDT on April 8, 2024, online play and other functionality that uses online communication will end for Nintendo 3DS* and Wii U software. This also includes online co-operative play, internet rankings, and data distribution.

You can find more information about badges for decorating the Nintendo 3DS HOME Menu using Nintendo Badge Arcade here.

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.

We sincerely thank players for using the online services of Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software over a long period of time and apologize for any inconvenience.

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