Nintendo is closing the eShop for both the 3DS and Wii U, making it impossible to add funds and make new purchases from the end of March 2023.
Wii U and 3DS eShops are DEAD! Here’s what they look like now…
As time inevitably marches on, it seems a given that we will eventually have to say goodbye to the 3DS and Wii U eShops. It may feel like it’s too soon, and in some ways it always will be, but both systems are roughly a decade old, and the Switch has been an absolute powerhouse. Still, even though the era is coming to an end, there’s no need to rush to make sure all your purchased games are installed right away.
From May 23, you will no longer be able to use a credit or debit card to add funds to your 3DS or Wii U eShop wallet. However, you can link your Nintendo Network ID wallet (3DS, Wii U) to your Nintendo Account wallet (Switch) to use any remaining balance in the more modern eShop.
Both eShops will also stop accepting eShop Cards in August 2022. After that, you will no longer be able to use the cards to redeem download codes or add card value to your wallet. It is likely that most retailers will remove/destroy the relevant cards before then, or issue a warning to buyers, to avoid confusion as summer approaches.