Back when I first got my 3DS, I thought I would have to replace games almost as often as I finished them. Historically, new games have replaced older ones, becoming obsolete once companies stopped supporting their servers. In almost every instance, it used to be a sorry fact of gaming life.
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In fact, this is true for almost any console, including the 3DS. Game developers and console manufacturers often have an online service for each console, with an “eShop” being Nintendo’s version of an online store for its various consoles. When the 3DS eShop eventually closed, I assumed a huge bulk of the games would no longer be able to receive updates. Fortunately, this turned out not to be the case. Nintendo announced a workaround that allows for updates even without Eshop access.
Nintendo’s Update Server
In order to facilitate the loss of their eShop services, Nintendo created a new server solely to handle updates. This server does not contain any of Nintendo’s games, but it does contain all of their patches. This server will remain online for the foreseeable future, ensuring you will still be able to update your favorite 3DS games.
In order to access this server, you will need to follow a few steps.
- Go to the System Settings on your 3DS
- Select “Other Settings”
- Select “System Update”
- Select “Perform System Update”
- Select “Yes”
This process can take a few minutes, so be patient. Once the update is complete, you will be able to play your 3DS games as normal, and you will still be able to receive updates. This method should allow you to continue playing and updating your favorite 3DS games for years to come!
Checking for Updates
Once you’ve enabled the system update, how do you check to make sure an update is ready for your games? Nintendo has conveniently added that to the system settings as well!
- Go to the System Settings on your 3DS
- Select “Other Settings”
- Select “Software Update”
- Select “Check for Updates”
- Select “Yes”
The 3DS will then check for updates for all of your games and will begin downloading, then installing any updates it finds. This process is designed to be very simple, even for those who may not be technically inclined! Keep in mind that, while this method will allow you to update your 3DS and your games, you still won’t be able to purchase new games for the system.
FAQ
Q: Why is Nintendo doing this?
A: Nintendo is doing this to ensure that players can still enjoy their 3DS games.
Q: How long will this server be online?
A: Nintendo has not said how long the server will be online, but they have said that it will be for the foreseeable future.
Q: Can I still purchase games for my 3DS?
A: No, this is not possible without using an alternate Nintendo Account created before the eShop closed that still has funds available.
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How To Update 3ds Games Without Eshop
Conclusion
Now that you know how to update your 3DS games without using the eShop, there’s nothing standing between you and your next adventure in gaming. With a vast library of games to choose from, and updates still rolling out from Nintendo, your 3DS will continue to be an excellent way to pass the time and have fun. As for me, I’ll be hopping into a round of Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS. Happy gaming!
