This article was originally written for TheNintendoVillage.com, a website I founded and ran from 2018 to 2021.

Amongst all the hype for the next generation of games consoles, one of the most loved systems in Nintendo’s pantheon has finally ceased production. The 3DS is no more.

The big N has officially discontinued production of its handheld device after 9 and a half years and just under 76 million units sold. In a statement issued to GamesIndustry.biz, Nintendo said:

"We can confirm that the manufacturing of the Nintendo 3DS family of systems has ended. Nintendo and third-party games for the Nintendo 3DS family of system will continue to be available in Nintendo eShop, on Nintendo.com and at retail.
The existing library of more than 1,000 Nintendo 3DS games contains many critically acclaimed titles and can provide years of content to explore and enjoy.
We currently have no plans to end any existing online services for the Nintendo 3DS family of systems.
Online play and Nintendo eShop will continue to be available and it will be possible to access and redownload all previously purchased content in the foreseeable future."

The system has given us a wealth of great games over the years, from superb original titles like Animal Crossing: New Leaf and Super Mario 3D Land to definitive editions of the likes of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. That stellar library has translated into software sales of 384 million units.

Whilst it didn’t sell as well as its all-conquering predecessor, it nevertheless enjoyed a successful lifespan despite a rocky start, spawning several iterations including the 3DS XL, New 3DS, 2DS and New 2DS XL.

It’s a sad day, but the 3DS has given us tons of happy memories over the years, and we’re sure plenty of people will continue to discover its excellent library.

Let us know your favourite 3DS memories down in the comments!

Source: GamesIndustry.biz