Random: “I’m Able To Trust Sony More Than Nintendo” – Japan Reacts To The Closure Of The Wii U And 3DS eShops
The day we all feared has finally come – Nintendo has confirmed that in 2023, it will be closing the Wii U and 3DS eShops in order to focus entirely on its Switch platform.
It’s the natural course of things – especially in the digital age, where we don’t “own” anything – but there’s still a feeling of bitterness about the news, and in Japan, fans have been venting online about the decision.
Kotaku has been combing through social media and message boards to compile a list of the most noteworthy reactions from fans, some of which you can view below.
“Nintendo is unhinged.”
“Well, even though you buy downloads, it’s just a rental.”
“Okay, then make it possible to use the Virtual Console on the Switch”
“Inevitably, this day has come, hasn’t it?”
“I’m able to trust Sony more than Nintendo.”
“Ridiculous. This makes me only want to buy from Steam.”
“At the end, you won’t be able to play anymore? That’s terrifying.”
“This is thinking little of your customers.”
“This is reckless. That’s the issue.”
“This is garbage.”
“Knock it off with this s****y monthly subscription for Switch Online and bring back the Virtual Console.”
“This is happening too quickly.”
“If we can’t play previously purchased games, then give us a refund.”
“You can still buy digital games for the Vita. Plus, last year, new stuff came out. The way Nintendo’s hardware is just thrown out to the wolves is truly awful.”
“And this is why I hate the download versions.”
“I’m still playing the 3DS! Stop f**king with me!”
“And now I see the importance of buying the retail package version.”
“The Switch will likewise be quickly cut down. Remember this.”
“It’s come at last. I wasn’t waiting for this, though.”
“But all the games I bought…”
“What a waste to end such a wonderful service for game consoles.”
“Will there be a sudden price job for the package version of the games?”
“It would be good if they kept it going forever. Endings feel so lonely.”
It’s worth noting that the 3DS sold an incredible 24.67 million units during its lifespan in Japan, and it would be safe to say that at least a fraction of those systems are still in active use.