Nintendo’s new 3DS gaming device has only been available in Japan for a few days and hasn’t even started shipping worldwide as yet. But a few inventive hackers have already been able to modify the pocket 3D game console to run games from the illegal and infamous R4 flash card.
For those unfamiliar with the card, the R4 will circumvent copy protection systems built into the Nintendo DS console, allowing homebrew or more commonly pirate games to be played. The R4 cards have been banned in certain countries including the UK and Japan and have long been a thorn in Nintendo’s side.
The Mechanics of the Hack
The hackers have used the Nintendo’s 3DS backward compatibility with the older DS and DSi consoles to hack the new 3DS into using the R4 cards. This backward compatibility feature, which was intended to allow gamers to enjoy their older DS titles on the new 3DS, has inadvertently provided a loophole for hackers. By exploiting this feature, they have managed to bypass the security measures that Nintendo put in place to prevent unauthorized software from running on the device.
The R4 card essentially acts as a bridge, allowing the 3DS to read and execute code that it would normally reject. This means that, for now, the R4 cards will only run DS game titles and not the new 3DS games. However, this development is significant because it shows that the 3DS’s security can be compromised, which could lead to more sophisticated hacks in the future.
Nintendo’s Response and Future Implications
Expect Nintendo to roll out a fix to try and stem the use of R4 cards on its new 3DS device. The company has a history of taking swift action against such breaches. In the past, Nintendo has released firmware updates to block the use of unauthorized devices and software. It’s likely that they will do the same with the 3DS, possibly through an over-the-air update that patches the security hole being exploited by the R4 card.
The use of R4 cards and similar devices has broader implications for the gaming industry. On one hand, they allow users to run homebrew applications, which can foster creativity and innovation. On the other hand, they are often used to play pirated games, which can hurt game developers and publishers financially. This ongoing battle between hardware manufacturers and hackers is a cat-and-mouse game, with each side constantly trying to outsmart the other.
Moreover, the legal ramifications of using such devices can be severe. In countries where R4 cards are banned, possessing or using one can result in fines or even jail time. Nintendo has also been known to take legal action against companies and individuals who distribute these devices. Therefore, while the technical achievement of hacking the 3DS is impressive, it comes with significant risks.
Via Pocket Lint Via Pocket Gamer
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