Does 3DS save data on cartridge or SD card?

Most 3DS physical games save progress directly onto the game cartridge itself, allowing you to move the cartridge to another console and continue playing. However, some games save main progress or smaller data (like replays, StreetPass info, or custom Miis) to the SD card, and downloaded eShop games always save to the SD card or system memory.
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Is 3DS save data stored on cartridge?

Yes, most physical Nintendo 3DS games save their main progress (levels, items) directly to the cartridge itself, allowing you to move the cartridge to another 3DS and keep your save. However, some games save "extra data" (like photos, replays, or DLC) to the system's SD card, and all digital eShop games save entirely to the SD card or system memory, not the cart. 
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Is 3DS still worth it in 2025?

Yes, a Nintendo 3DS is still worth it in 2025 for its incredible, unique game library (including DS & 3DS titles), glasses-free 3D, portable design, and the robust homebrew scene that brings new life to the console, though prices are rising and official support is ending, making physical game collecting a premium. It's great for nostalgic fans, collectors, and new players seeking timeless Nintendo experiences, but be prepared to buy used and potentially learn some basic modding for online play. 
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Do cartridges save game data?

Different types of data are stored in different locations. *Game-related data includes data stored for software updates, etc. (but excludes save data). *1Save data is never stored on game cards, even for games physically supplied on a game card.
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Can a modded 3DS still play cartridges?

Consoles with custom firmware can download game updates and run physical cartridges as any other 3DS can.
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How to Backup/Dump 3DS Cartridges to SD Card

Do DS cartridges have a lifespan?

DS games use proper mask ROM that will never go bad. They use flash or EEPROM for save files though, so potentially if you leave a cartridge sit for a good decade or more it could lose its save data, but you should still be able to play it and start a new save file.
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What does FBI do on 3DS?

FBI on a Nintendo 3DS is a popular, open-source homebrew title manager and file explorer used to install, manage, and delete games, apps, updates, and DLC (in .cia format) from the SD card or over the network, essentially acting as a custom eShop for unofficial software and backups on hacked consoles. It lets you browse your system's files, install new content via QR codes or URLs, and even manage save data, making it a core tool for managing homebrew and installed software on a custom firmware (CFW) 3DS.
 
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Was 3DS a success or failure?

This strategy was considered a major success, and the console went on to become one of Nintendo's most successful handheld consoles in the first two years of its release.
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Why was Citra discontinued?

Citra (and Yuzu) was discontinued in March 2024 because its developers, Tropic Haze LLC, settled a lawsuit with Nintendo for $2.4 million, agreeing to cease development and distribution due to Nintendo's claims that the emulators facilitated piracy by circumventing console protection, leading to unauthorized game access and leaks, despite the developers' stated good intentions.
 
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How to recover lost 3DS data?

Complete these steps
  1. From the HOME Menu, tap System Settings, and then Open.
  2. Tap Data Management.
  3. Tap Nintendo 3DS, and then tap Save-Data Backup.
  4. Tap Restore. Save-Data Backup screen.
  5. Select the save data you wish to restore, and then tap OK. Restore screen.
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How to dump 3DS saves to PC?

Insert the SD card from the source system into your PC, and copy the whole Nintendo 3DS folder from the SD card to any location on the PC. Then, insert a blank microSD card into the PC, and copy that Nintendo 3DS folder from the PC to the microSD card. Please note: only blank microSD cards may be used.
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Can I still download 3DS games after the eShop closes?

Yes, you can still redownload games and DLC on your 3DS even after the eShop closed for purchases (March 2023), as Nintendo promised this service would continue "for the foreseeable future," allowing access to your past digital library through the "Redownload Software" option in the eShop's settings menu. However, online play and other online functions for 3DS games ended in April 2024, and while redownloading is currently free, it's recommended to redownload desired content soon, as availability isn't guaranteed indefinitely. 
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Will I lose my game progress if I get a new switch?

No, you won't lose your game progress if you get a new Switch, but you need to actively transfer your user profile, save data, and digital games from the old console to the new one, or use Nintendo's Save Data Cloud (with a Nintendo Switch Online membership for supported games) to move or back up your progress. This process involves using your original Switch's settings to initiate a system transfer to the new console, ensuring your Nintendo Account, user data, and game saves (especially for non-cloud-supported games like Pokémon or Animal Crossing) move over securely, say Nintendo Support and Reddit users. 
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What happens if you lose your 3DS SD card?

The SD card or microSD card will need to be replaced. Any downloaded content will need to be redownloaded, and it is likely the save data will be lost. Replacements are available through the My Nintendo Store.
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What is the #1 most sold game?

The number one selling game of all time depends on the criteria, but Minecraft is generally considered the best-selling individual video game with over 350 million copies sold, while Tetris often tops lists when all its platform versions (especially mobile) are combined, reaching over 520 million sales, and the Mario franchise leads all video game franchises. For current sales (2025), titles like Battlefield 6 and NBA 2K26 lead by revenue, though these lists often exclude some digital sales. 
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Was the 2DS a failure?

No, the Nintendo 2DS wasn't a failure; it was a strategic budget-friendly entry in the 3DS family, successfully targeting young kids and budget-conscious buyers who didn't need 3D, offering a durable, cheaper way to play the vast 3DS/DS library, proving that solid, affordable hardware and a great game library mattered more than gimmicks for certain audiences. While it received mixed reviews for its odd design and lack of folding, its success showed Nintendo the appeal of simpler, cheaper portables and paved the way for the New 2DS XL, ultimately making the 3DS line a hit. 
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Is homebrewing a 3DS illegal?

Modding a 3DS to run homebrew (unofficial apps/games) isn't inherently illegal in itself, as you own the device, but it treads a legal gray area and risks bans from online services; however, downloading copyrighted games without paying (piracy) is definitely illegal, and homebrew makes piracy easy, making Nintendo potentially issue bans for such activities. The modding itself is generally seen as okay for custom themes, emulators, or region-free play, but using it to get free games crosses the line into piracy, which is illegal. 
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How risky is modding a 3DS?

Modding a 3DS carries risks like bricking your console (making it unusable), getting banned from online services (though less likely now), and potential software instability, but these risks are minimized by following current, reputable text guides like the 3DS Hacks Guide and avoiding outdated video tutorials. The primary risks involve hardware failure from mistakes (bricking) or online bans from piracy/cheating, but proper procedure focuses on installing Custom Firmware (CFW) (Luma3DS) and homebrew safely, preserving the device's potential for fun, while Nintendo's servers are winding down.
 
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Can 3DS get malware?

Overview. Malicious executable code, also known as malware or viruses, has become more common and can impact users of 3ds Max. If allowed to spread, malware can result in loss of intellectual property and reduced productivity.
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Is it possible to replace a 3DS battery?

Remove any Game Cards from the system. Turn the four cross-head (+) screws on the bottom of the system counter clockwise to remove the battery cover. Remove the battery pack from the system. Wait at least 10 seconds, and then insert the new battery pack (or old battery if you are reseating it).
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