After the closure of the Wii Virtual Console, the 3DS and Wii U versions are all we have left of the once prolific retro games service. Of course, the original Wii service had the most games. From classic NES games to Genesis and SNES games (including many rare third party games), it was a dream come true back in 2006. But now we have news that both the Nintendo Wii U and 3DS eShops are going to stop being compatible with credit/debit cards.
Too Soon?
Although at the moment this has only been confirmed for Europe and will start in September, it is a huge blow to Wii U/3DS aficionados. While this includes both virtual console and other eShop games, it’s a big surprise that we’ll no longer be able to use our credit/debit cards to buy games through the consoles. The only option we’ll have to buy games will be online through a browser, or by purchasing eShop cards (which are increasingly rare).
Out of Credit?
It seems like a strange decision considering that Nintendo says they are still supporting the 3DS and currently still have the handheld on their UK online store. There are so many great games on the 3DS and the ability to impulse buy must have been earning Nintendo a decent chunk of money. With this gone, Nintendo will surely be losing out.
Personally, as a Nintendo fan, I really think this is a low blow and pure hypocrisy from Nintendo. They say they’re still supporting the system, yet now people won’t be able to buy digital games conveniently. I love Nintendo, but its these kinds of moves that make people resent the company.
What are your thoughts? Do you think its too soon for Nintendo to be stopping credit card payments on the 3DS/Wii U? Please tell us in the comments.
