Nintendo Requires 3.3 Firmware Update that Breaks Freeloader Support

Jul. 7 4:27 PM by Lynxara

So, the Wii Freeloader was the answer to a lot of prayers. Like the GameCube Freeloader, it let you play imports on US hardware by simply swapping discs. Nintendo doesn't much seem to want people playing imports on their Wiis, though.

Not long ago they issued a 3.3 firmware update that broke Freeloader support, but it was labeled optional. The happy importer just had to ignore it. Now, information is surfacing that all upcoming games are going to require 3.3 firmware to run, forcing the Wii importer to choose between playing new games or playing the imports they've already purchased.

Nintendo has made firmware-based attempts to break modchips like the WiiKey with firmware updates, which have mostly failed. I can see why, most modchip owners DL games instead of buying them. Most Freeloader owners, though, are just people who want to collect Japanese games but don't want the hassle of keeping two Wiis in the house. Why you gotta be hatin', Nintendo? Importers aren't the bad guy. Breaking the Freeloader is just going to encourage more Wii owners to get modchips.

Comments

I agree. Tightening the grip has always encouraged the masses to go the opposite way. And that goes for more than just games. Think Prohibition and alcohol, marijuana, and pretty much any war with revolution in it's title.

 

Nintendo is doing everything they can to prevent any sort of homebrew.

If Nintendo does release some sort memory solution, I doubt it will be SD support.

 

Well, let's be honest, here: If Nintendo (or any company) wanted people playing imports, they wouldn't have region coded the hardware in the first place. I mean, I'll be the first to say that region coding sucks donkey balls, but this move isn't so out of nowhere as all that.

 

It's not out of nowhere at all, no. That said, it really comes off like after failing to break the WiiKey and other modchips, they're picking slower-moving targets now. It doesn't feel right.

 

Bastards. There is $20 down the drain.

 

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