Nintendo to Shut Down Pokémon DP Sound Library Just Three Months After Launch
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Published on: May 31, 2022
Description
Nintendo is closing the Pokémon DP Sound Library on May 31, 2022, marking a surprising end to the service just three months after its highly anticipated launch in February.
The library was designed to allow content creators and fans to legally download and utilize music and sound effects from the iconic Pokémon Diamond and Pearl games.
Upon launch, Nintendo celebrated in partnership with numerous Japanese artists and DJs, who produced exclusive singles using materials from the sound library.
The Pokémon DP Sound Library quickly gained attention not only as a new resource for fans and content creators but also as a rare example of Nintendo offering official access to its extensive portfolio of game music.
Historically, music from classic and legacy Nintendo titles has been unavailable for legal download, streaming, or physical purchase outside of Japan, frustrating fans and the broader gaming community.
For years, dedicated Nintendo fans have taken to platforms like YouTube to upload and share soundtrack recordings, sometimes facing swift copyright enforcement from Nintendo.
In February 2022, coinciding with the launch of the Pokémon DP Sound Library, Nintendo notably targeted the YouTube channel GilvaSunner, which had uploaded thousands of demonetized Nintendo soundtrack videos over more than a decade.
Nintendo’s legal action resulted in the removal of 3,500 videos and ultimately led to the channel's permanent deletion.
With official soundtrack releases from Nintendo remaining infrequent—particularly outside Japan—the Pokémon DP Sound Library's launch had been received as a positive step for the publisher and its global audience.
Its abrupt closure has left many fans disappointed, as they once again lose a sanctioned avenue to access beloved music from Pokémon Diamond and Pearl.
Nintendo has yet to provide a public explanation for the service’s shutdown.
Until 9:00 am UTC on May 31, users have the opportunity to continue streaming and downloading available tracks from the Pokémon DP Sound Library.
After that, legal access to this cornerstone of Pokémon’s musical history will once again be limited, underscoring the ongoing challenge fans and content creators face in accessing and celebrating classic Nintendo soundtracks.
Source: IGN
