Hacking European 3DS on Firmware 2.18 My options?

[Jingles]

Thanks for help!

 

[skidooelan]

1. Do I absolutely have to find a European region game cartridge with firmware 4.5?

AFAIK the cartbridge needs to be the same region than the console.

2. Can I install a custom firmware somehow?

Once you are on 4.5, you can install rxTools by using this tutorial: [Tutorial] Installing rxTools Custom Firmware - (3DS and 2DS)

3. Should I get the latest firmware online and wait for upcoming exploits?

NO! Update to 4.5 and get a fully exploitable system. The other coming exploits will only allow you to downgrade to an exploitable version.