Nintendo has recently announced that they will be shutting down online services for the 3DS family of Systems and the Wii U come next year in April 2024. It should come to no surprise, really, seeing as over the past couple of years, Nintendo has been shifting focus from both consoles and shutting down features like the closure of the eShop on those systems and reducing update support.
Still, it was only this year that Nintendo decided to reactivate online support for Splatoon and Mario Kart 8 on the Wii U. On the flip side, they did state that while they were opening online play to both games, there was the possibility that Nintendo would end online multiplayer support at any time.
For the full announcement and information on what systems are affected, you can find the official statement from Nintendo below.
Announcement of Discontinuation of Online Services for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software
Applies to: New Nintendo 3DS, New Nintendo 3DS XL, New Nintendo 2DS XL, Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo 3DS XL, Nintendo 2DS, Wii U Deluxe, Wii U Basic
Thank you very much for supporting our products.
In early April 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.
We will announce a specific end date and time at a later date.
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.
* This includes software exclusive to New Nintendo 3DS.
Will the closure of online support for 3DS and Wii U affect you? Let us know in the comments.
Source: Nintendo America Support
