Topic: Unlinking Digital Retail Download with Hardware

I've been a long time lurker as a guest, and this will be my first post.

I've scowered all throughout Google and called Nintendo but haven't gotten a definitive answer.

A couple weeks back I acquire a 3DS XL but now that I've found out the Zelda 3DS XL bundle will be released on the 22nd of this month. I'm think about returning my current system to the retailer and pre-order the Zelda bundle. However, the problem lies with the return policy and the digital retail downloads ($120 worth of digital downloads) being tied to the hardware it was downloaded on. I have only 30 days to return my 3DS XL but by the time I get my hands on the Zelda bundle it'll be far past the return window, so I won't be able to transfer the games and save files.

I call Nintendo, after 20 minutes of repeating my self over and over again. They were not able to give me a definite answer that I would be able to get the games back since the games are tied to the hardware.

Seems like my only option is to buy another 3DS XL transfer my exsisting games and save files to it. Return the original one, then as soon as I get my hands on the zelda bundle transfer it to that and then return the other one.

Any solutions would be much appreciated!

Your idea sounds like the only thing you can do

Other option is to wait for the Zelda 3DS XL and do the transfer when you get it, then sell the first 3DS XL in eBay or some other auction site. You most likely will lose money this way, but it's less hassle than buying a 3rd 3DS XL and return two of the three consoles.