The Nintendo 3DS is almost 11 years old. It's been nine months since Nintendo released a software update for their former handheld console, long eclipsed by the massive success of the Nintendo Switch. But Nintendo hasn't entirely forgotten about the 3DS, either.
Nintendo has just released an update for the 3DS as of today. According to OatmealDome (via GameRant), a Twitter account best known for rumors, leaks, and datamines, Version 11.15.0-47 was released to address "stability" issues with the 3DS. The update also addresses the 3DS's internet browser and also recovery mode's SSL system component.
OatmealDome suspects that the update is to fix a recently discovered browser vulnerability, which would explain the curious timing of the update. Nintendo discontinued the 3DS last year after no new games hit the platform for all of 2020. Although most gamers have certainly moved on to the Switch, Nintendo still sold 76 million 3DS handhelds, and the vast majority of those are likely still out there somewhere, and some might even still be playing on it.
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Nintendo would still want to ensure the 3DS remains safe to play if for no other reason than to avoid the bad press. Imagine if a hacker managed to steal someone's Nintendo account thanks to a 3DS vulnerability?
And if you haven't tried the 3DS, there are still games totally worth playing on the older console! Games like Professor Layton Vs. Phoenix Wright, Fire Emblem Echoes, Super Pokemon Mystery Dungeon, and a ton of other great JRPGs. There's also Metal Gear Solid 3D: Snake Eater, a great rendition of the classic PS1 game, and of course, Majora's Mask, perhaps the best Zelda game ever made.
You should still be able to find a 3DS online for cheap if you’re willing to buy used. Just make sure you update your 3DS’ OS when you do.
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