Nintendo has ended the era of DS-branded handhelds by discontinuing purchases on the 3DS eShop. The platform had become a hub for indie developers, providing a launchpad for a golden age of Nintendo indies, many of which went on to be some of the most iconic games on the 3DS. The eShop had enabled smaller developers to break through with WiiWare and DSiWare, and provided them with a platform where they could flourish and connect with a larger audience. Development for the 3DS was no easy task, with issues such as slow CPU, lack of middleware engine support, and unique technical challenges associated with 3D capabilities. Nevertheless, developers showed their love for Nintendo by taking the risk of developing games for the 3DS, and the satisfaction of pulling it off was worth the effort. Although the era of the 3DS has come to an end, the platform’s legacy will continue to be recognized in the gaming industry.
3DS eShop creators recall Nintendo indie heyday with nostalgia.
