The Nintendo eShop is an online store service operated by Nintendo, providing digital downloads for various Nintendo gaming platforms. Here are some key details about this service:
History and Evolution
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Introduction: The concept of an online store was first introduced with the Wii in 2006, but the Nintendo eShop as we know it today was officially launched with the Nintendo 3DS in 2011.
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Expansion: Following its success on the 3DS, the eShop was extended to the Wii U in 2012, and later to the Nintendo Switch in 2017.
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Closure of Previous Services: The eShop replaced earlier digital distribution services like the Wii Shop Channel, which ceased operations in 2019.
Features
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Content: The eShop offers a wide range of digital content including games, demos, applications, and downloadable content (DLC).
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Account System: Users can access the eShop with a Nintendo Account, which allows for purchases across different platforms and devices.
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Region Locking: Until the Switch, the eShop had region locking, restricting purchases to the region of the console's origin. This was largely eliminated with the Switch.
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Payment Options: Payment can be made through credit cards, PayPal, Nintendo eShop Cards, or directly through linked Nintendo Account funds.
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Cloud Saves: With the Switch, cloud saving was introduced, allowing players to backup game data online, accessible via the eShop.
Platform Specifics
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