Nintendo has reportedly removed a number of DSiWare titles from the Nintendo 3DS eShop, without offering any warning to fans that the games would be disappearing.
The takedowns were first spotted by Twitter user @comeoutpunching, who reports that “all DSiWare games released before mid-May 2011 have been deactivated.” Games that are no longer able to purchase include Shantae: Risky’s Revenge, Asphalt 4: Elite Racing, Aura-Aura Climber, Dr. Mario Express, Mr. Driller: Drill Till You Drop, and many more.
PSA to 3DS gamers and DS fans: all DSiWare games released before mid-May 2011 have been deactivated on the eShop, including the classic Shantae Risky’s Revenge! Luckily I got it on my DSi before that shop shut down. Grab from those still for sale while you can! Recs in thread.. pic.twitter.com/lVcawxTq8e— 😎 Come Out Punching (@comeoutpunching) January 2, 2021
At the time of writing, the takedowns appear to be hitting North America the hardest; Delisted Games reports that most of the titles removed in that region are still available to buy in Europe.
Viewing any of the affected games in the eShop presents players with a message that reads, “This software is currently unavailable.” Considering the fact that Nintendo hasn’t yet issued any statement regarding the disappearing games, it’s possible that this is a temporary error that will be resolved – we’ll make sure to update this story with more info as and when we have it.
In the meantime, it probably wouldn’t hurt to download any DSiWare games from the 3DS eShop while you still can, just in case. This digital age is a scary one!
