Nintendo Wii U

For emulators, see Wii U emulators and Emulators on Wii U.

"How U will play next."

After the massive success of the Wii among casual gamers, Nintendo tried to win back the hardcore crowd that had left them for the Xbox 360 and PS3. The Wii U was a more powerful machine, capable of high definition graphics, and it included a fancy controller with a built-in touch screen and motion control. It had an interesting gimmick: streaming games to the controller (handy if someone wants to watch something on TV while you're playing), or using it as a second screen for extra functionality. Also, it was backwards-compatible with Wii games.

However, it was a flop, the worst-selling of Nintendo's mainline consoles.

So what happened? Their marketing was confusing and led many to assume that this was just another accessory for the Wii. The system was more expensive than its predecessor, partly due to the fancy controller (which suffered from poor battery life, and despite looking like a tablet, was not portable). In practice, most games didn't look any better than those on the aforementioned aging rivals, which by that point were cheaper and had amassed vast libraries. The streaming gimmick didn't win anyone over either, as most households have multiple TVs anyway. And the system had limited support from third-party developers, since the much more powerful Xbox One and PS4 were just around the corner.

That's not to say the Wii U didn't get some great games. Even discounting the ones that were ported to the Switch, there is still a small but robust library here. However, before going after one, or if you already do, be sure to read about the issues listed below.

Technical issues

Even in its retirement the Wii U can't catch a break.

Failing NAND chips

By early 2023, many Wii U owners reported that their consoles were dying out of nowhere. There was much speculation around it, with rumors that it happened after not being used for too long. But as it turns out, its NAND storage modules are of rather poor quality, and its OS performs far too many read/writes, causing those chips to fail and corrupt data. Once that happens, the system becomes unusable without extensive hardware modding. For more information, read this GBAtemp thread.

Some facts:

The Wii U used NAND modules from three suppliers. Currently, as of 2023, this type of failure is extremely common on NAND made by SK Hynix, much less on Samsung, and basically nonexistent on Toshiba.
You can use this homebrew software to check which manufacturer you have.
It should go without saying that if you haven't backed up your sysNAND (Because Jailbreaking is hard for Nintendies.) it's pretty much now or never if soldering isn't an option.
Even if your system boots up, that doesn't mean you're out of the woods. If you are unable to change system settings or dump the NAND, then it might as well be dead.
For readers willing to solder, there are workarounds being developed to replace the faulty NAND chips. Read this GBA temp thread.

Other issues

Wii U discs have a high failure rate and suffer from disc rot issues (See: This GBAtemp Thread).
The Wii U cannot output Full RGB, and messes with the aspect ratio of Wii and Gamecube games when run through HDMI or component video. So if you just want to play Wii and Gamecube games, you're better off with a regular Wii (which is cheaper, more reliable, and can be easily soft-modded).

Console Features in the Post Eshop Era

Here's what the Wii U can do in 2023, since the eShop is dead, this list assumes you're hacking your system, which is as easy as putting files on an SD card now:

Play Wii U Games - No brainer
Off TV Play - If you never leave the house, it's functionally the same as the Switch.
Full Wii Mode Functionality - Wii Games and Homebrew run excellently on the Wii U
Play Gamecube games - With Homebrew, you can very easily create custom Gamecube injections, Nintendo might not have taken the opportunity to give us these titles on the eShop officially but that doesn't mean the Wii U isn't an excellent place to play these titles. Gamecube games work with the excellent Pro Controller as well.
Play Nintendo DS games - While the selection of DS games on the eshop was sparse, with homebrew, you gain access to games like Chrono Trigger DS, which when combined with the unique Gamepad, means some games are best played on the Wii U. This is also extremely handy if you're trying to capture DS game footage.
Play NES, SNES, TG-16, N64 and Gameboy Advance Games via the Wii U Virtual Console. - The console functions well as a "Best of" Nintendo-type console. You can play nearly every game from every major Nintendo franchise here.
Web Browser functionality while limited, still functions for Youtube. Use Frogfind.com if you're just looking to quickly search for cheats/guides/etc.

The List

This icon indicates the game has Off TV Play. When necessary, sub-notes should be written beside it (in parenthesis if you wish).

Note:	Exclusive or definitive version

Disc-Based

Title	Genre	Description	Controller
Bayonetta 2	Action-Adventure	You play as a strong independent witch who uses guns on her hands and feet fighting angels and demons. As it's a Platinum game, everything is absolutely CUHRAYZEE - imagine Devil May Cry with tons of over-the-top action. The first game was released alongside special versions but can be found separately, or via eshop. If you're still not amazed yet, try the demo. Gamepad: Gamepad's touch screen to control the character's moves in a special mode called "Touch Play" mode. Also uses the gyro for aiming and camera control (optional). Also available on the Switch.
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker	Action Puzzle	Really charming spin-off of the Captain Toad segments in Super Mario 3D World. Toadette is playable as well. It also has Shy Guys and even though it is only a few hours long it is cozy as hell. Gamepad: Wii U Gamepad is used to control the camera, manipulate the environment, aim and throw turnips, and display a map of the level. This allows players to have a different perspective on the level, navigate through the levels, and find collectibles. Also available on the Switch with extra content and a co-op mode.	Gamepad
Darksiders II	Action-Adventure/Hack-N-Slash	This game is amazing, and the Wii U version is great. Off-TV play is good, and if you're playing on TV your inventory shows up on the gamepad. Gameplay is Zelda and God of War in a blender. Comes with DLC on disc. Gamepad: Gamepad is used for displaying maps, inventory, as well as gyro aiming. Also on PC, PS3, & 360. Remaster/Definitive Edition on PS4, XONE and Switch	Gamepad, Pro Controller
Deus Ex: Human Revolution Director's Cut	FPS/RPG	Prequel to the first Deus Ex. FPS/RPG action, multiple approaches to objectives, conspiracy theories, etc. Slightly more linear then the original and worse writing, but definitely , superior to DXIW, and generally upheld as worthy of the Deus Ex title. The Director's Cut contains the extra story DLC, improved textures, reworked bosses, and other features. Excellent usage of the Gamepad, honestly prefer this version to the PC version. A must own for the system and a real showcase of the potential the Wii U had. Gamepad: Hacking, Inventory, maps, augments, etc are all handled on the Gamepad, with the integration being really well done. Also on Mac, Windows, PS3, & 360.	Gamepad
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze	2D Platformer	DK and Diddy return for more Retro Studio-developed antics. Now you can also play as Dixie and based Cranky (though DK must be in the player's team, i.e. no duos of just Dixie/Diddy/Cranky). There's a few new items and moves as a result, and some collectables can only be obtained by certain characters. Swimming levels also make a comeback, but work differently than before. Of particular note are the upgraded visuals, with some very nice textures and effects. Some might call this a rehash, but it's a solid game worth a shot before you form any final opinions. Gamepad: Also available on Switch with NEW FUNKY MODE	Gamepad, Pro Controller, Wiimote, Wiimote + Nunchuk
DuckTales: Remastered	2D Platformer	An HD remake of DuckTales on the NES done in 2.5D with hand-drawn character sprites, developed by WayForward (Shantae, Mighty Switch Force!). The characters have full voice acting and even includes members of the show's original cast. Looks fantastic with identical gameplay to the original, and features expanded levels with a full story. ~~Available for download and physically. Also on PC, PS3, 360, Android, iOS & Fire OS.~~ Removed from online stores on August 2019. Good luck finding a physical copy for any version or just pirate the shit out of it.	Gamepad, Pro Controller
Game and Wario	Minigames / Party Game	Wario needs more money: time to make another game! Like all Warioware games it's a surreal collection of fast-paced minigames with zero plot and tons of inane unlockables. This is actually where the charm lies! The games are well-designed as always, frantic and fun. Don't go in expecting a plot or anything deep and meaningful. Go in looking to have fun burning time and you'll be happy!	Gamepad, Pro Controller
Hyrule Warriors	Hack 'n' Slash	A collaboration between Tecmo Koei and Nintendo where you get to play as Link and fuck up hordes of enemies as well as large bosses with a fabulous scarf, Dynasty Warriors-style. Also yes, it's a spin-off. Just be prepared for tons of waifus - you know, the whole Dynasty Warriors experience. This version has the 3DS content and DLC. Also available on Switch as 'Definitive Edition', with all content from both 3DS/WiiU included.	Gamepad, Pro Controller, Wiimote + Nunchuk
Kirby and the Rainbow Curse	Platformer	A sequel to Canvas Curse on the DS, you must draw your way through multiple worlds to stop the so called Rainbow Curse. You can draw platforms to ride on and attack enemies. Has a cute claymation artstyle as well. Short, but it's a fun ride.	Gamepad (Single-Player) Pro Controller, Classic Controller, Wiimote (Multi-player Only)
Lego City Undercover	Action/Collect-a-thon	A semi-open world family-friendly GTA. Since it's a Lego game, expect lots of funny moments, most of the humor drawing from pop culture and '70s cop flicks. Lots of stuff to find and collect. Suffers from ridiculous load times and floaty driving controls. now on xbone,pc,ps4 and switch, there is barely any update.	Gamepad
Mario Kart 8	Racing	The latest in the long-running Marry-oh Kart series. Amazing graphics and silky smooth 60fps, unless you're playing multiplayer with 3 or 4 then it's 30fps. A lot of great tracks and a (mostly) okay roster of characters. New additions include anti-gravity sections, ATVs, Boomerangs, Piranha Plants, Super Horns, all the Koopalings, and more. Has a detailed replay system called Mario Kart TV that lets you view any moment in a race and even edit your reel. Multiplayer is classic fun, and online is decent but limited. You can actually race online with another local player at the same time, which is pretty fucking rad. Also available on the Switch with new content and all DLC included.	Gamepad, Pro Controller, Classic Controller, Wiimote, Wiimote + Nunchuk
Monster Hunter 3: Ultimate	Monster Hunting	Monster Hunter Tri remake, but with so much more fucking content and improved visuals. Can play with 3DS locally, and other Wii U players online. New update just added Off-TV Play and cross-region play. Beware, though: if games like Dark Souls and Mega Man frustrated you, you might want to try the demo first to make sure you really want it. Also on 3DS. Updated from Wii.	Gamepad, Pro Controller, Classic Controller
Need for Speed: Most Wanted U	Racing	A port of the PC version of the game. Minor graphical and gameplay updates, but the main draw of this version is that it comes pre-packed with the Ultimate Speed Pack DLC. Co-Driver mode is also introduced, allowing the player to make minor adjustments to the environment and their car on the fly using the Gamepad. Also on PC, PS3, 360, Vita, Android, iOS, & FireOS.	Gamepad, Pro Controller, Classic Controller, Wiimote, Wiimote + Nunchuk
NES Remix Pack	Compilation/Mini Game Collection	A compilation of 28 classics from the 8-bit era, such as Super Mario Bros, Donkey Kong, Kid Icarus, Excitebike, Zelda, and so on. It was also sold on eShop in two separate packs. Also on the 3DS with a much smaller game selection.	Gamepad, Pro Controller, Wiimote, Classic Controller/Classic Controller Pro
New Super Mario Bros. U	2D Platformer	More side-scrolling Mario, now in wonderful HD with flying squirrel suits. Supports up to five players, as the person using the gamepad can create platforms to help the other four players. Some new modes, Challenge Mode and Boost Rush are available, the first providing new challenges in exchange for 1-Ups, while the later is a scrolling level challenge that speeds up as coins are obtained. Also includes a new little antagonist called Nabbit who likes to steal items from Toad, but can be caught to obtain the stolen power-ups. Many Deluxe Sets come packed-in with NSMBU+LuigiU DLC all on one disc. Also available for the Switch with new playable characters + Super Luigi U as 'NSMB U Deluxe'	Gamepad, Pro Controller, Wiimote
New Super Luigi U	2D Platformer	Released as an expansion to the original game, this version is available as both DLC and physically in celebration of the Year of Luigi. The game features 82 new courses that are built around Luigi's floaty playstyle, and replaces Mario with the Nabbit as the fourth playable character. Levels tend to be shorter, but more difficult with a reduced time limit. Give it a try if you enjoy the series, though Challenge Mode and Boost Rush are absent. Also available for the Switch with new playable characters + NSMBU as 'NSMB U Deluxe'	Gamepad, Pro Controller, Wiimote
Nintendo Land	Minigames	Nintendo's first theme park, right in your living room. The park is divided into sections that represent different Nintendo franchises. Lots of fun with friends and alone, although some minigames are multiplayer-only.	Gamepad, Wiimote, Wiimote + Nunchuk
Pikmin 3	RTS/Adventure	Third in the series of Miyamoto's amazingly fun and charming strategy games. This one has you in a different setting and you control 3 captains from the planet Koppai whose food has run out and you are sent out to retrieve more. It has a variable limit which can last as long as you keep finding food (unlike the fixed limit in Pikmin 1), but has no caves. It also looks fantastic, the fruit looks real enough to eat! It now has DLC as well. If you're still on the rocks, you can try the demo on the eShop that contains the entire Garden of Hope level. Be careful, though - there still isn't a left-handed mode.	Gamepad, Pro controller, Wiimote + Nunchuk, Classic Controller Pro.
Pokkén Tournament	Fighting	The Pokémon fighting game you wished for back in the 90's is finally here! Has elements of both 2D fighters and arena fighting (you switch between the gameplay styles during battle, plays better than it sounds). While different to traditional fighters (in 3d mode, it's actually pretty close to traditional fighters in the 2d phase) it's still very fun and has a surprising amount of depth. Great online too, with fast matchmaking and a good netcode, and one of the best soundtracks of the year. Developed by some of the Tekken team at Namco, which explains the name. Be aware the single player however has a trival story and is more or less just a grind with brain dead AI, and full 60fps local play requires a LAN connection with two consoles and two copies of the game. Also available on Switch.	Gamepad, Pro controller, classic controller pro, Pokkén Tournament controller
Resident Evil: Revelations	Third Person Survival Horror	Resident Evil returns to its survival horror roots in a HD port of the 3DS version. Includes improved graphics and good Gamepad features. Better than its PS360 counterparts, but still lacking a little in the graphics which is to be expected. Also on PC, PS3, 360, & 3DS and Switch.	Gamepad, Pro Controller
Rayman Legends	2D Platformer	Originally announced as a Wii U exclusive, but then delayed to be released multiplatform due to Microsoft's shitty Third-Party policies (Which caused massive amounts of rage in the process) Rayman Legends features OVER 100 FUCKING LEVELS! This game is packed full of content, and it's hard as shit too. The game plays similar to Origins, but has a new feature: Murphy and his Murphy segments. During these short segments, you actually control Murphy to help solve puzzles, manage hazards and obstacles in levels, etc. In most versions, Murphy is assigned to a button while you move the character. In Wii U (and Vita), you ONLY control Murphy, while characters are automatically controlled. Opinions are split on this. With multiple levels, characters, and costumes, Rayman will keep you coming back for more. Also on Switch, PC, PS3, PS4, 360, XBOne, & Vita.	Gamepad, Wiimote, Wiimote + Nunchuck, Pro Controller
Shovel Knight	Platformer	You're a knight wielding a shovel, who must fight eight other knights with similar gimmicks before confronting an enchantress who has been plaguing the countryside. Sound familiar? Takes all the good parts of games like Mega Man from yesteryear, adds in its own unique style, and packages it all up in a cute little bow with NES-style graphics and music. If you can't find the disk, just hit the e-shop for the download. Also free DLC/Patches add new story modes with are great. Also on Switch, Linux, Mac, Windows, PS3, PS4, 360, XBOne, 3DS, & Vita.	Gamepad, Pro Controller, Wiimote, Classic Controller/Classic Controller Pro
Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed	Racing	Sequel to Sega's fantastic racer, this time with added Planes and Hovercraft, so kinda like Diddy Kong Racing if you could switch vehicles midrace. Wii U version has Banana Heist and Ninja Tag minigames exclusively. (To switch to Gamepad mode just swipe down on the touchscreen, completely undocumented in the manuals or anything.) Also on PC, PS3, PS4, 360, Vita, Android, & iOS.	Gamepad, Pro Controller, Classic Controller, Wiimote, Wiimote + Nunchuk
Sonic: Lost World	Platformer	A mix of Sonic and Mario Galaxy, this game has been called "Sonic Xtreme Reborn", but doesn't look like shit. Most of the game takes place on little planets like Galaxy, but on speed. Controls are wonky and take time to get used to, and also has the Wisps from Colors (But nobody cares). Has you fighting enemies and bosses, with tricky but satisfying platforming. Parkour is also in for some wacky ass running up walls and steps while maintaining up your speed. Hated on by reviewers because it was "Too hard" and "not fast enough". Also has the Deadly Six Edition, With NiGHTS thrown in, and also free Nintendo DLC to put Sonic in Yoshi's island and Zelda. Also on PC (without DLC) & 3DS.	Gamepad
Splatoon	Third Person Shooter	Nintendo's first real foray into the third person shooter genre. Players create their own squid-like Inkling and fight using an arsenal of cartoony, ink-based weapons. Splatoon focuses on capturing territory, not killing players, with several "capture the flag" type modes available. While the game features a short single player campaign the real focus is on online play. Currently the online multiplayer game is up to 14 maps and five game modes thanks to frequent downloadable updates. Splatoon can be played without an internet connection but the on-disc content is very limited and the solo campaign lasts only 5 hours. It's unsuitable for people who do not have a stable internet connection or don't enjoy online multiplayer. The Gamepad is the ONLY controller option for the first player, be it Single Player or Multi Player. Second player has to use alternative controllers. Sequel on Switch.	Gamepad (player one), Pro Controller or Classic Contoller (player two)
Super Mario 3D World	Platformer	The newest installment in the main Mario series takes a break from space exploration for a game very similar to 3D Land but on a larger scale. Playable are Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Toad, each with their abilities from Super Mario Bros. 2 as an excellent throwback. Rosalina is also unlockable with a Galaxy inspired playstyle. Since Peach is playable this time around, the game takes place in the new Sprixie Kingdom, with Bowser having kidnapped its fairy princesses. This world also contains a lot of nostalgic enemies from Super Mario World, such as the unique Goombas and Chargin' Chuck. Features most of the power-ups from 3D Land, as well as the new Cat Suit which allows the player to climb walls or lunge at enemies. As of typing this entry, it is currently the highest rated Wii U game on Metacritic, and deservingly so.	Gamepad, Pro Controller, Classic Controller, Wiimote, Wiimote + Nunchuk
Super Mario Maker	Platformer/Level Editor	Basically Nintendo going "Fuck it, you do it" and let's you create your own levels and play others from across the world online. You have multiple choices of games (Super Mario Bros, Super Mario Bros. 3, Super Mario World, and New Super Mario Bros.) to choose and create from, including different enemies, power-ups, and even ones that weren't in the original game. Not to mention the hundreds of costumes of characters from different Nintendo games. If you're a Mario fanatic or not, get it. There's a 3DS version out, but it's butchered to hell and back, so I would still go with this one. Sequel (without amiibo support) on Switch.	Gamepad, Pro Controller, Classic Controller, Wiimote, Wiimote + Nunchuk
Super Smash Bros. for Wii U	Fighter/Party Game	Do we really need to explain this? Take all your favorite Nintendo characters, put them in a single room together, and let them beat the crap out of each other. Includes new characters like Mega Man, Pac-Man, Wii Fit Trainer, Little Mac, and even your own Miis. Now has eight-player Smash, a Mario Party-esque mode called Smash Tour, an online mode that blows Brawl's out of the water, a mode specifically for competitive players, an extensive single-player mode for those who don't like online play, and even some demos for Virtual Console games. The game offers also DLCs of several kind. One of them is SF's Ryu. Also on 3DS. Sequel on Switch.	Gamepad, Pro Controller, Classic Controller, Wiimote, Wiimote + Nunchuk, Gamecube controller, Nintendo 3DS
Tekken Tag Tournament 2: Wii U Edition	3D Fighter	The usual exciting roster of Tekken with just a touch of Nintendo. Gameplay is still a blast as usual, adding in features lost since the original Tekken Tag Tournament. Has all previously-released PS3/360 DLC on disc plus hilarious costumes based on Nintendo characters and two Wii U-exclusive modes, including Tekken Ball. Also on arcade, PS3, & 360.	Gamepad, Pro Controller, Classic Controller, Wiimote + Nunchuk
The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD	Action/Adventure	It's Wind Waker but with a (somewhat divisive) new artstyle, a better inventory system, and you can take selfies to send in bottles to other players. The pacing is improved greatly by the swift sail and the shortening of the Triforce quest. If this is your first Wind Waking then it is a Zelda game that has a fantastically charming game with much more lighthearted humor than other Zelda games. Off TV play is as convenient as ever but it means giving up the touchscreen inventory. During use of the Pro Controller, the GamePad can still be used as a map. Updated from GCN (duh).	Gamepad, Pro Controller
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD	Action/Adventure	Just like the one above, this is Twilight Princess, but prettier and a few extras. It isn't as noticeable a difference as Wind Waker HD, but it still looks pretty good. There's also a new Hero mode included. In fact there's an even harder mode and a new exclusive (albeit optional) dungeon, but they're sadly locked behind Amiibos. Well, it's still a nice upgrade anyway. Updated from GCN & Wii.	Gamepad, Pro Controller
The Wonderful 101	Action-Adventure/Hack n' Slash	Latest action game from Hideki Kamiya. You control a group of superheroes on a mission to stop alien invaders. Your characters can form any weapon or tool they need using themselves as material. Gameplay has been described as Okami+Bayonetta. As expected of Platinum Games, boss battles are absolutely CUHRAAAAAZY. Try the demo if you're not impressed yet.	Gamepad, Pro Controller, Classic Controller
Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE	RPG	An RPG which is basically Shin Megami Tensei with Fire Emblem shoehorned in, it plays pretty well and has that Atlus feel to it. AKA it's weeaboo as fuck. Western versions were struck with a retard stick and have lots of inane censorship. The Switch version suffered the same fate, even in Japan. There are mods to revert the changes, so get them before playing the game.	Gamepad, Pro Controller, Classic Controller, Wiimote, Wiimote + Nunchuk
Xenoblade Chronicles X	RPG	The sequel to the critically acclaimed Wii RPG, it's just as huge and impressive as the previous game. In fact, it's probably the most impressive game on the Wii U. With one of the hugest overworlds in any recent RPG, you can get into many battles with Xenoblade's battle system, sometimes even in a giant robot. It may not be as good as Xenoblade Chronicles, it's still good in it's own right. Oh, and Hiroyuki Sawano (Kill la Kill, Aldnoah.Zero, Attack on Titan, etc.) did the music, and it grows on you really quickly.	Gamepad, Pro Controller
Yoshi's Woolly World	Platformer/FUCKING CUTENESS OVERLOAD	A spiritual successor to Kirby's Epic Yarn, you play as Yoshi trying to collect all of the Wonder Wool to rescue all of the unraveled Yoshis. You can eat enemies, platform, and do all sorts of fun stuff. Also it's cute as fuck. Amiibo has tons of costumes locked behind them, so that suck. There's a 3DS port with extra levels, so that kinda makes this one obsolete. But you still get the nicer graphics.	Gamepad, Pro Controller, Classic Controller, Wiimote
ZombiU	First Person Survival Horror	A reimagining of Ubisoft's very first game, Zombi for the Amstrad CPC (1986). Fight zombies in post-apocalyptic London. Plays like a single player rogue-like version of Left 4 Dead. Perhaps not an instant classic, but it had a lot of great ideas and the multiplayer was rad as fuck. Expect a lot of loading screens. Ported to PC/XB1/PS4 as "Zombi", but the best version is still on the WiiU.	Gamepad, Pro Controller for Multiplayer

Nintendo eShop releases

The eShop is a digital store that sells downloadable-only titles, and offers demos for various titles. Its Wii U support ended in March 2023, so it is no longer possible to make purchases. It is still possible to download previously purchased titles, but it will be shut down for good in April 2024.

Title	Genre	Description	Controller
Bit. Trip Presents... Runner 2: Future Legends of Rhythm Alien	Rhythm / Platformer	The sequel to the famous WiiWare game. This game features purtier graphics, new songs, and a whole bunch of other shit. It's on fucking everything, but the Wii U version has Off-TV Play. Also on Linux, Mac, Windows, PS3, PS4, 360, Vita, & iOS.	Gamepad
Cloudberry Kingdom	Platformer / Torture Device	This is a platformer so fucking difficult the developers couldn't beat it. If you like getting raped hard, this game is for you. Also on PC, PS3, & 360.	Gamepad
Daikon Set	Retrogames / Vaporwave	A Free collection of three minigames inspired by the games of the late 70's and early 80's. Blue is a Chroma Star: a color-based space invaders like shooter. Pink is Pink Mite: a scrolling platformer where avoiding obstacles is the focus. Yellow is a The Queen: a defender-type game based loosely on Pong where you must deflect projectiles while not getting hit on your vulnerable side. Everything is set to nicely made vaporwave music.	Gamepad
Ghost Blade HD	Shmup	A cool manic shooter, originally released on the Dreamcast, with some solid indie pedigree: the producer and the programmer of Pier Solar, plus the designer and the composer of Last Hope. Their main inspiration is distinctly - or even shamelessly - Cave's DonPachi series. Gorgeous highly detailed backgrounds and nice electronic soundtrack. Very enjoyable, but perhaps a bit on the short and easy side.	Gamepad, Pro Controller, Wiimote, Nunchuck, Classic Controller
Giana Sisters: Twisted Dreams	2.5D Platformer	Jeez, for a game that was an obvious Mario clone back in the 80's, the Giana Sisters have come a long way. This game is a 2.5D platformer where you play as two sisters switching through 2 worlds. The switching mechanic changes the graphics, soundtrack, and behavior of various monsters and interactive elements lending a puzzle feel to the platforming. It's actually a very deep and enjoyable game. Also on PC, PS3, PS4, 360, & XBOne.	Gamepad
Kung Fu Rabbit	2D Platformer	A 2D platformer similar to Super Meat Boy, but slow as shit. If you like Super Meat Boy, then get this game. Also on 3DS, Vita, Android, & iOS.	Gamepad
Little Inferno	Sandbox/Fireplace Sim	Burn things, collect money, buy more things to burn and make combos with, and repeat. Has a very dark story going on throughout. Same guys who developed World of Goo. Wii U version is not much different to the PC version and with a somewhat high price for a 2-3 hour 'game'. Also on Linux, Mac, Windows, Android & iOS.	Gamepad, Wiimote
Mighty Switch Force! Hyper Drive Edition	Puzzle Platformer	Port of the 3DS game, a great puzzle platformer with timed levels which will have you trying to beat your best time by miliseconds. Wii U version has Hyper Mode levels which are just bounus levels more difficult than the first 16 levels, a new gun after you finish the game, and has enhanced visuals so you can see more of the Hooligan Sisters' lewd curves. Also on PC.	Gamepad, Pro Controller, Classic Controller/Classic Controller Pro
Mutant Mudds Deluxe	2D Platformer	A deluxe edition of the 3DS game...without the 3D. It features 20 brand new GHOST levels. The game kind of loses its touch without the 3D. But hey, ~~playing as grandma at the end makes up for it, right?~~ WHOOPS DID I SAY THAT OUT LOUD SPOILER Also on PC & Vita. Updated from 3DS, PC, PS3, & iOS.	Gamepad
Nano Assault Neo	Twin Stick Shmup	Beautiful twin-stick shooter. Has 4 levels which each have 4 sub-levels. Game gets extremely difficult when you go for the high scores. Has multiplayer co-op. Updated for PS4.	Gamepad, Pro Controller or Classic Controller/Classic Controller Pro for Co-op
Puddle	Physics / Puzzle	Tilt the Gamepad left and right to get the liquid to the end, kinda like a mix between Mercury and LocoRoco except there's a bunch of different liquids with different properties. Also on Linux, Mac, Windows, PS3, PS4, 360, Vita, Android, iOS, & Ouya.	Gamepad
Shantae and the Pirate's Curse	Platformer / Metroidvania	One of WayForward's favorite franchises. Play as a half-genie belly dancer who can whip enemies with her hair, and become a super-sexy pirate so you can get your magic back. The basic gameplay hasn't changed much since its beginnings on the Game Boy. And the story is so heartwarming, you'll be running out of tissues in no time. Also on PC, PS4, XBOne, 3DS, & FireOS.	Gamepad
The Cave	Adventure Platformer / Puzzle	New Double Fine game which plays similar to a point and click game, with great writing. The Wii U port is marred with a sub-par framerate, often dropping below 30 fps. Try the eShop demo and see if you don't mind it. Also on Linux, Mac, Windows, PS3, 360, Android, iOS, & Ouya.	Gamepad, Pro Controller, Wiimote + Nunchuk
Toki Tori 2	Metroidvania Puzzle platformer	Main character is a chick who can only do two things: whistle and ground pound. That's it. Every single puzzle in a game is solved with these two moves interacting the the environment in various ways. Whistling various tunes give a a few more abilities (like teleporting between checkpoints). There are no levels, only one big interconnected world that you traverse by solving puzzles you encounter on the way. Puzzles can get very hard. Aside from the main menu logo and credits, the game has no text. expect to download a patch the same size as the game as it updated the main game with twice to content. Also on Linux, Mac, Windows, & PS4.	Gamepad
Trine 2: Director's Cut	Adventure / Puzzle / 2D Platformer	Amazing puzzle platformer with a nice traditional medieval fantasy story ported from PC, with Goblin Menace expansion pack included and an extra level called "Dwarven Caverns". Switch between 3 characters who each have different abilities to continue forward. Also on Linux, Mac, Windows, PS3, PS4, 360, & Android.	Gamepad, Pro Controller

Virtual Console

The Virtual Console was a service for Wii, Wii U, and 3DS that sold games from older systems. It was discontinued in March 2023, and it's no longer possible to make purchases. It is still possible to download prior purchases, but it will be shut down for good in April 2024.

Cover	Title	Genre	Description	Screenshot
	Earthbound Beginnings	RPG	The OG quirky RPG, the first entry in the Mother series. This is the prototype English translation that was completed but unreleased back then (and eventually leaked, and widely called "Earthbound Zero"). It's different from its two sequels, but it's still quite amazing. Earthbound Beginnings makes some changes from the original beyond just changing the text, but is improved overall. But it's probably a better idea to play one of the ROM hacks of this that improve the experience. Alternatively, there is also a GBA compilation, Mother 1+2, and a fan translation for that.

Recommendation Copypasta

Wii U launch pasta
Wii U games to get, May 2013
Wii U beginners guide
Wii U /nintyg/ recommended games list, August 2015

Videos

Eighth Generation
Consoles	Ouya - Sony PlayStation 4 - Nintendo Wii U - Microsoft Xbox One
Handhelds	Nintendo 3DS - Sony PlayStation Vita

Nintendo Wii U

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