Downloadable Retail Software FAQ
General Questions
Save Data Questions
General Questions
How do I buy a downloadable version of Nintendo 3DS software?
Sales of software and DLC for the Nintendo 3DS family and Wii U via Nintendo eShop ended at 5:00 PM Pacific Time on Monday, March 27, 2023. For more information, read the Wii U & Nintendo 3DS Nintendo eShop Discontinuation Q&A.
Does game content vary between the card version and digital downloadable versions?
There is no difference in regards to content between card and digital downloadable versions. However, save data for a digital downloadable version is saved onto the SD card while save data for card versions is saved to the game cartridge.
Is multiplayer game-play possible between card versions and downloadable versions of the same game?
Yes - as long as the game supports multiplayer between two or more systems. Both physical and digital versions of the game are essentially the same regardless of format.
Save Data Questions
Is save data lost when a downloaded title is deleted from the SD Card?
Yes, save data is lost when a downloaded title is deleted from the SD Card. However, it can be re- downloaded for free from the Nintendo eShop. The game will need to be started from the beginning again when this is done.
Where is the downloadable version of a game saved?
It is saved onto the SD card within your systesm.
Can the downloadable version of a Nintendo 3DS game be transferred to another 3DS console?
It is not possible to transfer a specific software title to another system. However, it is possible to perform a System Transfer and transfer the entire content of your system to another.
