Nintendo will end support for online games on the 3DS and Wii U consoles in April 2024

Nintendo is discontinuing support for online games on the 3DS and Wii U consoles, starting in April 2024. Previously, in March, the company closed the electronic stores (eShops) for both systems. However, players were still able to use online services within games, such as online multiplayer and rankings.

According to an official announcement on Nintendo's support website, as of April 2024, all online games and features that rely on online communication will become unavailable for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software. This includes online cooperative play, internet rankings, and data transfer.

Nintendo plans to announce the specific date and time for the cessation of online services at a later date. However, the company notes that if any unforeseen events occur that make it difficult to continue online services for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software, they may have to terminate the services earlier than planned.

Nevertheless, after the online services are discontinued, players will still be able to enjoy single-player gaming, and the online functionality for Pokémon Bank will remain active. Nintendo emphasizes that the closure only pertains to in-game online functionality. Players will still be able to download updates and redownload purchased software and additional content from the 3DS and Wii U eShops "in the foreseeable future."

The end of support for these systems also means that Nintendo will no longer maintain the Virtual Console service. Instead, the company provides access to retro games through various applications within the framework of Switch Online.