Just bought a Mario Kart 8 bundle (pre-installed w/ DLC) from Gamestop just outside of Washington, DC. More specifically in Virginia, USA. Came with 5.4.0. Serial number = FW42623XXXX. I've just updated the serial number database to include it. I would suggest editing the main post to include a greater warning about this bundle, since it's a pretty prominent retailer that people would purchase systems from in the states. Yeah, I realize there's a disclaimer. But Gamestop has the bundle for $250, so I took the risk. Whoops? I'm mildly disappointed... but I have some games to kill time with. Looking forward to that 5.4.0 exploit.
I've been searching for a couple of hours now and I haven't found the answer, so pardon me for asking what may be a redundant question. Is anyone aware of a way to link a Nintendo Network ID without updating to 5.5.0? I have blocked servers via URL filtering in my router and my system is configured to use the TurboHax DNS server. I'd like to stay on 5.4.0 in anticipation of an exploit... but in the meantime I'd like to spoof 5.5.0 and continue playing games online with friends. (If this is even possible. If I can't spoof until I've used a kernel exploit, then I'll just play offline for the time being. It'd be nice if that wasn't necessary, though.) If this is possible, a step-by-step would be a great addition to the original post.
Thanks! This thread was very informative.