This "deep paper" explores the technical specifications, gameplay mechanics, and digital distribution (CIA) aspects of Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Gates to Infinity Technical Overview & CIA Specifications In the 3DS homebrew ecosystem, a CIA (CTR Importable Archive)
What do you all think about Gates to Infinity? (spoilers in thread) pokemon mystery dungeon gates to infinity cia
The Legal Stance:
Downloading a .cia of Gates to Infinity is technically copyright infringement if you do not own a physical copy of the game. However, the 3DS eShop is now defunct. You cannot legally buy this game digitally anymore. Many archivists argue that this falls into "abandonware" territory, though Nintendo’s lawyers would disagree. You cannot legally buy this game digitally anymore
Install: Select the Gates to Infinity file and choose "Install and delete CIA." The eShop closure killed the ability to buy
One reason the CIA format is superior to a cartridge dump is the DLC (Downloadable Content) . The eShop closure killed the ability to buy the Gates to Infinity DLC packs (which included new dungeons like Pika Land and Scorching Desert).
Alternative recommendation: If you want a fully legal digital copy, check second-hand marketplaces for a physical cartridge—it works on any 3DS and doesn’t require custom firmware.