my original 3DS bit the dust
 

it was the black & gold 25th anniversary zelda edition. it doesn't power up (it's in two pieces), so i can't transfer my nintendo ID and eShop purchases to my minty Zelda-edition XL.

either way, i'm quite certain that a system-to-system transfer doesn't link actual game saves. after thinking about how much time i sank into FF Theatrythm and SSB, makes me want to hulk smash something.

Might want to see if Nintendo customer service/repairs/whatever would be able to help?

Ouch. Yea I feel 'ya. My DS died couple of weeks ago. All that time using it to play GBA. RIP, Mr.Poké's DS.

If it makes you feel a little bit better, if you had physical games instead of digital downloads, your save data should still be on there. I tried out some of my games on a buddy's New 3DS XL (Majora's Mask edition, lucky him) and I still had my saves.

I feel your pain. My 3DS transfer to the New 3DS XL disconnect while underway. My ID transferred, but the New 3DS recognized all my old saves as corrupted. After days on the phone with customer support, and trying every trick I could find online, I gave up...

But I do think Nintendo can transfer your Nintendo ID and purchases over the phone.

I had some problems with transferring to my New 3DS XL because the SD card slot on my original 3DS was busted, but Nintendo Customer Service was able to help me. All I had to do was give them the pin numbers to both of the systems and they were able to do a transfer digitally somehow. It worked and they were very helpful, so you might want to try that.

you were partially right..

for SSB, my unlocked characters/maps and trophies were all there, but a couple of replay videos and my custom Mii fighter are gone. still need to check my Theatrythm content. i'm worried about the DLC crap i bought. i will need to redownload that stuff probably, if it's still available to get.

damn that really sucks... only reason i have a 3DS is because of how cool the graphics on the original zelda edition are...