As is often the case with new console generations, support for previous-gen systems is slowly starting to dissolve. While Nintendo's recent announcement of the 3DS and Wii U eShop shutdown next year may be upsetting for some, it's also unsurprising, considering how much popularity the Nintendo Switch is receiving. That said, many Nintendo fans have begun to take advantage of the time the eShops have left.
Both the Wii U and the 3DS have been discontinued for a number of years now, but a number of the services for both systems remain available for the time being. The announcement of the eShop shutdown led to some understandable backlash from some, but several users that have since accepted the inevitable are now going through both eShops and purchasing as many games as possible.
Over on Reddit, a cacophony of users have posted about shopping sprees they went on in order to get as many 3DS and Wii U games as possible before the both eShops shutdown. In addition to games, 3DS users are also downloading software updates for the 3DS as well, in order to be fully prepared for when digital purchases are no longer available.
Just went on a little shopping spree and bought some games (and themes). I know the eshop doesn’t close for a year but I just wanted to do it as soon as possible. from 3DS
Now that both digital stores are shutting down, it's surprising just how many great games are available for each system. The Wii U virtual console has a litany of classic games from multiple Nintendo properties, such as The Legend of Zelda, Metroid, Donkey Kong Country, and much more. Although, what many 3DS users should really take advantage of are some 3DS exclusive titles.
The 3DS is home to numerous games that are only available on that system. This not only includes the remakes of The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D and Ocarina of Time 3D, but also numerous entries in the Ace Attorney series. Other than mobile platforms, the only place to play any of the most recent Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney installments, such as Spirit of Justice, is on the 3DS, so fans of the series should definitely keep their eye out.
In any case, these shopping sprees are only a prelude to what's likely to come when the deadline for the eShop shutdown gets closer and closer. Given how manic several PlayStation fans were when the PS Vita store almost shut down, it's certainly possible that even more users will try and get more games before both stores shut down. It does seem like Nintendo is sticking to its guns in terms of the shutdown, so players will have to act fast.