Nintendo WiFi Connection Shutting Down: End of Online Play for Wii and Nintendo DS
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Published on: March 03, 2014
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Nintendo WiFi Connection Shutting Down: End of Online Play for Wii and Nintendo DS
Nintendo has officially announced the termination of its Nintendo WiFi Connection service, a move set to impact owners of legacy platforms such as the Nintendo DS and Wii.
Effective May 20, 2014, the company will discontinue all functions related to online play, matchmaking, and leaderboards on these consoles.
This milestone marks the end of an era that began with the launch of the Nintendo DS in 2004, bringing online gaming features to millions of players worldwide through the innovative Nintendo WiFi Connection.
Originally introduced to connect players from every corner of the globe via the Nintendo DS and Wii platforms, the Nintendo WiFi Connection quickly became a crucial part of Nintendo’s online gaming landscape.
The service allowed fans to engage in online multiplayer, rank on global leaderboards, and challenge friends remotely.
Popular titles making use of these features included "Mario Kart DS," "Pokémon Diamond and Pearl," "Mario Kart Wii," and "Super Smash Bros.
Brawl."
Nintendo’s decision to end the service aligns with the evolving nature of its hardware ecosystem and online infrastructure.
The company clarified that this shutdown will affect only the Nintendo DS and Wii platforms.
Users of the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U can continue enjoying online play and matchmaking, as these platforms operate on a separate and more modern online network that remains fully supported.
The shutdown does not impact the Nintendo Switch or services delivered through Nintendo eShop and Nintendo Switch Online.
In a statement delivered to fans, Nintendo expressed gratitude for the dedication shown to its legacy systems.
The company acknowledged, “We deeply appreciate the enduring passion of our community for these classic platforms.
The enthusiasm our players have shared for the games on Wii and Nintendo DS is a testament to both the longevity of our products and the vibrant Nintendo fanbase.”
Though original Wii and DS online functionality will soon conclude, offline play, as well as local multiplayer and downloadable content previously installed on supported titles, will remain available to players.
The Nintendo WiFi Connection shutdown underscores Nintendo’s ongoing commitment to supporting modern platforms while celebrating the contributions of its past consoles.
For fans who still see their Wii flashing blue, it is likely a final message from Nintendo regarding the upcoming service closure.
To stay updated on Nintendo’s current and future online services, users can follow official announcements via Nintendo Direct presentations and the company’s website.
As Nintendo transitions its focus to new innovations and platforms such as the Nintendo Switch, the end of the Nintendo WiFi Connection service serves as both a look back at a transformative period in the company's online journey and a sign of exciting technological advancements ahead for the gaming industry.
