Today marks a bittersweet moment for Nintendo enthusiasts around the world as the tech giant says goodbye to the online functionality of its beloved Wii U and Nintendo 3DS consoles. For gamers, this means a significant change in the way they interact with their favorite titles. While offline play remains unchanged, any games that rely on online features will no longer function as before. Super Mario Maker, for example, will lose its online capabilities entirely. Searching, playing or downloading user-created levels will become relics of the past.
Nintendo acknowledges this transition, stating, “Players will still be able to use features and game modes that do not require online communication.” However, online cooperative gaming, online ranking and data distribution will bid their final goodbyes. In a statement, Nintendo expressed its gratitude to its loyal players: “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 caused.”
The official support page explains that while network services will stop for most Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software, there are certain exceptions. Players can still contact individual publishers for information about online services for specific titles. Importantly, redownloading previously purchased games and downloadable content from the Nintendo eShop remains feasible for the foreseeable future. Nintendo assures that StreetPass, which uses local communication between Nintendo 3DS systems, will exist even after the end of online services. However, features that rely on online communication, such as SpotPass, will say goodbye.
As a measure of continuity, the Pokemon Bank and Pokemon Transporter services will remain active. This is especially good news for players who use the Bank to store and transfer Pokemon between different games. So for those looking to relive the magic of Super Mario Maker or take part in one last race in Mario Kart 7 on 3DS, today is the last chance before these online experiences retire. As we say goodbye to these services, let’s cherish the memories and look forward to what the future holds for Nintendo’s ever-evolving landscape.
