The gaming world is changing, and Nintendo is clearing the way for its next-gen handheld, the Nintendo Switch 2.
As hype grows for its official launch later this year, the company is turning its entire focus to the new console, resulting in repair services for older handheld models no longer being an option. This applies to both the 3DS and the 2DS.
Nintendo 3DS and 2DS Repairs Officially Discontinued
Nintendo has made the official statement that it will no longer accept repair orders for the Nintendo 3DS LL and Nintendo 2DS due to a lack of required parts. According to Pocket Tactics, this is the last stage of phasing out for the legendary handhelds, which previously ruled the portable gaming market.
The announcement, which was made on March 4, 2025, follows a prior statement in February 2024, in which Nintendo announced its plan to phase out repair services for Nintendo 2DS, 3DS, and 3DS LL models gradually. The company first suspended repairs for the regular Nintendo 3DS in August 2024, and this recent action seals the move toward its next-generation hardware.
In April 2024, the Big N shut down the 3DS and Wii online services. The download option for games remained available indefinitely at that time.
Read more: Apple App Store Adds a Nintendo 3DS Emulator Called 'Folium'—GBA, DS Games Also Available
Why Nintendo is Phasing Out 3DS and 2DS Support
With the Nintendo Switch 2 getting ready for its big debut in a future Nintendo Direct presentation, the firm is focusing its resources on its new system. The Switch 2 promises improved performance, improved graphics, and improved gaming experience overall, and this makes it the worthy successor of the Nintendo Switch.
The sheer demand for Switch 2 production requires Nintendo to shift its manufacturing and customer support resources. Furthermore, no new 3DS games have been launched after 2021, and DS games stopped being produced in 2014, rendering it inefficient for the company to keep maintaining aging hardware.
Although the fact that Nintendo 3DS and 2DS repairs could end would be a blow to some, it marks an unforgettable era in the history of the company. Anyone who continues to own and enjoy their 3DS or 2DS can still use them, but replacement parts and repair services will grow harder to come by.
For those willing to adopt the future, the pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 are looking to be released soon, with a likely timed release around official gameplay reveals and system details. Featuring the ability to play AAA and first-party games, the next-gen handheld is looking to become an essential device.
GameRant also reports that the new console could come with a phone holder attachment. This would be ideal for those who want to play mobile games. Maybe Nintendo could give us a chance to connect your smartphones to the console.
In the meantime, claim the free "Super Mario 64" icons if you have Switch 1.
