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Developer | Nintendo |
---|---|
Type | Online service |
Launch date | 3DS
|
Discontinued | April 9, 2024 |
Platform(s) | |
Status | Defunct |
The Nintendo Network[a] was an online service formerly ran by Nintendo that provided free online functionality for the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U systems and their compatible games. Announced on January 26, 2012, at an investors' conference, it was Nintendo's second online service after Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. Former president of Nintendo Satoru Iwata said, "Unlike Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, which has been focused upon specific functionalities and concepts, we are aiming to establish a platform where various services available through the network for our consumers shall be connected via Nintendo Network service so that the company can make comprehensive proposals to consumers."[1][2]
On April 9, 2024, Nintendo shut down the Nintendo Network. Online functions such as online play, global leaderboards, SpotPass, and most other online features of both the Wii U and 3DS are no longer accessible. The only services which remain online are Pokémon Bank and Poké Transporter, system software and game updates,[3] the 3DS theme shop, and re-downloading previously purchased software from the Nintendo eShop for their respective systems.
The Nintendo Switch only uses the subscription-based Nintendo Switch Online service instead of using Nintendo Network as its online platform. Active Nintendo Network IDs could still be linked to the Nintendo Switch via Nintendo Accounts, but the ability to merge Nintendo eShop funds ended on March 11, 2024.
A third-party fan revival of the Nintendo Network, called Pretendo Network, is a free-and-open source replacement for Nintendo Network services. As of April 2024[update], Pretendo Network is still in development, with services currently available via an early access beta.[4][5][6]
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