The Nintendo Wii U, released in 2012, is a unique console that holds a special place in the hearts of gamers thanks to its innovative GamePad controller and vast library of captivating games. Despite its commercial difficulties, the Wii U laid the foundations for the resounding success of the Nintendo Switch, and many games have become beloved classics. In this guide, we'll explore the 40 best Nintendo Wii U games that showcase the console's strengths and the creativity of its developers. These selections cover a variety of genres, from action-packed adventures to charming platform games, ensuring there's something for everyone. Whether you're a long-time Nintendo fan or a newcomer to the Wii U, this list will guide you through the must-have experiences on this underrated console.
40. Batman: Arkham City - Armored Edition (2012)
Released in 2012 for the Wii U, this version improves on the original game with the Battle Armored Tech (B.A.T.) combination, features exclusive to the Wii U GamePad, and all previously released downloadable content. Players explore the vast Arkham City, engaging in dynamic combat, infiltration and investigation as the Dark Knight, taking on iconic villains and unraveling a captivating narrative.
39. Darksiders II (2012)
An action-adventure game developed by Vigil Games. Players embody Death, one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, on a quest to clear his brother War's honor and restore balance to the world. The game features a mix of hack-and-slash combat, platforming and puzzle-solving, set in a richly detailed world. With its in-depth character customization, captivating story and vast environments, “Darksiders II” offers an epic, immersive gaming experience.
38. Assassin's Creed III (2012)
A historical action-adventure game developed by Ubisoft. Set during the American Revolution, players take on the role of Connor, a Native American Assassin fighting for freedom and justice. The game features a vast open world, combining parkour, stealth and combat, with players navigating through urban and wilderness environments. With its engaging narrative, rich historical setting and refined gameplay mechanics, “Assassin's Creed III” offers an immersive and captivating experience in the renowned franchise.
37. Mass Effect 3 (2012)
A science-fiction action RPG developed by BioWare. Players take on the role of Commander Shepard, leading a desperate battle to save the galaxy from the ancient Reapers. The game combines intense third-person combat with a rich narrative, player-determined choices and character interaction. With its branching narrative, strategic combat and in-depth character development, “Mass Effect 3” offers a thrilling and emotional conclusion to the epic trilogy.
36. Cabela's Big Game Hunter: Pro Hunts (2014)
A hunting simulation game developed by Cauldron and published by Activision. Players go on hunting expeditions across various locations in North America, guided by professional hunters. The game features realistic animal behavior, detailed environments and a wide range of weapons and equipment. With its immersive hunting experience and demanding gameplay, “Cabela's Big Game Hunter: Pro Hunts” offers an exciting adventure for hunting enthusiasts.
35. Need for Speed: Most Wanted (2012)
An open-world racing game developed by Criterion Games and published by Electronic Arts. Players compete in high-speed races, evade the police and explore the town of Fairhaven to become the most wanted driver. The game features a variety of cars, extensive customization options and a dynamic multiplayer mode. With its adrenalin-pumping gameplay, stunning graphics and fluid open-world exploration, “Need for Speed: Most Wanted” offers an exhilarating racing experience.
34. Pikmin 3 (2013)
A real-time strategy and puzzle game developed by Nintendo. Players command a team of small plant creatures called Pikmin to explore an alien planet, gather resources and overcome environmental obstacles. The game introduces new types of Pikmin with unique abilities, enriching the strategic depth of the gameplay. With its charming visuals, innovative mechanics and engaging exploration, “Pikmin 3” offers a delightful and immersive experience for players of all ages.
33. NES Remix Pack (2014)
A compilation of the first two NES Remix titles. Developed by Nintendo, this game takes a fresh approach to classic NES games by remixing and reinventing iconic levels and challenges. Players can enjoy fast-paced challenges drawn from beloved titles like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda and Donkey Kong, each with unique twists and objectives. With its nostalgic appeal and inventive gameplay, “NES Remix Pack” offers both a trip down memory lane and a new way to enjoy classic Nintendo games.
32. How to Train Your Dragon 2 (2014)
An animated fantasy film directed by Dean DeBlois. It follows Hiccup and Toothless as they discover a hidden ice cave home to hundreds of wild dragons and encounter a mysterious Dragon Rider. As they strive to maintain peace between humans and dragons, they face new threats and discover shocking revelations about their world. With stunning animation, thrilling action sequences and emotional storytelling, “How to Train Your Dragon 2” is a captivating sequel that expands on the beloved universe of the original film.
31. The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD (2016)
A remastered version of the famous action-adventure game, released for the Wii U in 2016. Players reprise the role of Link as he traverses the land of Hyrule, this time plunged into twilight and threatened by dark forces. With updated graphics, improved controls and added features like Hero Mode, this HD edition revitalizes the epic quest for long-time fans and newcomers alike. Immerse yourself in the immersive world of “Twilight Princess” and experience the timeless adventure like never before.
30. Shovel Knight (2014)
A critically acclaimed side-scrolling platformer developed by Yacht Club Games. Players control Shovel Knight, a valiant warrior armed with a trusty shovel, as he sets out on a quest to defeat the evil Enchantress and rescue his beloved partner, Shield Knight. Inspired by classic retro games, “Shovel Knight” features precise controls, challenging levels and a charming 8-bit art style reminiscent of the NES era. With its blend of old-school game mechanics and modern design sensibilities, “Shovel Knight” has become a beloved indie classic, hailed for its creativity, nostalgia and impeccable craftsmanship.
29. Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker (2014)
A charming puzzle-platformer game developed by Nintendo, originally released for the Wii U in 2014 and later for the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo 3DS. Players guide Captain Toad, a fearless explorer, through a series of diorama levels in search of treasure and adventure. With its unique gameplay mechanics focused on exploration, puzzle-solving and clever level design, “Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker” offers a refreshingly immersive experience for players of all ages. Immerse yourself in this wonderful world full of secrets, challenges and hidden treasures, and embark on an unforgettable quest alongside Captain Toad!
28. Mario & Sonic at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games (2016)
A sports video game developed by Sega Sports R&D and published by Nintendo and Sega. Released in 2016 for the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U, the game features a variety of Olympic-themed events featuring characters from the Mario and Sonic franchises. Players can compete in events such as athletics, swimming, gymnastics and more, with colorful graphics and intuitive controls. With fun multiplayer modes and iconic characters, “Mario & Sonic at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games” offers an entertaining, family-friendly experience for gamers of all ages.
27. Super Mario Maker (2015)
In this game, players are given the tools to create their own custom Super Mario levels using intuitive, easy-to-use design tools. They can then share their creations online, enabling endless possibilities and a vibrant community of user-generated content. With its robust level editor, wide range of elements and seamless integration of user-generated content, “Super Mario Maker” lets players unleash their creativity and experience the joy of playing and creating Mario levels.
26. Wii Party U (2013)
Wii Party U features a collection of mini-games and activities designed to be enjoyed with friends and family. With a variety of game modes, including Board Game Island, Mini-Games and House Party, players can compete in challenges ranging from trivia quizzes to motion-controlled sports games. “Wii Party U” makes full use of the Wii U GamePad's capabilities for unique and fun interactions, offering hours of multiplayer entertainment. With its friendly, inclusive approach, this game is perfect for social gatherings and family evenings.
25. Wii Sports Club (2013)
“Wii Sports Club” is an updated version of the original ‘Wii Sports’ game, with improved graphics, online multiplayer functionality and additional features. Players can enjoy a variety of sports, including tennis, bowling, golf, baseball and boxing, using intuitive motion controls with the Wii Remote or Wii Remote Plus. “Wii Sports Club” also introduces online multiplayer matches, allowing players to compete with friends or strangers from around the world. With its accessible gameplay and nostalgic appeal, “Wii Sports Club” offers a fun and engaging experience for gamers of all ages.
24. Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two (2012)
Platform game developed by Junction Point Studios and published by Disney Interactive Studios. It features Mickey Mouse and Oswald the Lucky Rabbit teaming up to save the Wasteland using paint and thinner mechanisms. While praised for its artistic style and storytelling, it received mixed reviews for its gameplay mechanics and camera system.
23. Minecraft (2015)
“Minecraft: Wii U Edition” brings the famous sandbox game to Nintendo's console. It offers the classic “Minecraft” experience with single-player and multiplayer modes. Players can explore, build and survive in a procedurally generated blocky world, with unique features like off-TV play using the Wii U GamePad.
22. Deus Ex: Human Revolution - Director's Cut (2013)
“Deus Ex: Human Revolution - Director's Cut” for the Wii U is an enhanced version of the original game, specially adapted for Nintendo's console. Released in 2013, it features improved graphics, revised boss battles, and additional content such as developer commentaries and integrated DLC missions. Set in a cyberpunk world, players follow Adam Jensen, a security agent with cybernetic augmentations, as he uncovers a global conspiracy. The game offers several approaches to missions, including stealth, combat and hacking, with player choices influencing the narrative. Overall, this is a definitive edition of the game, offering an immersive experience on the Wii U platform.
21. Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze (2014)
A platform game developed by Retro Studios and published by Nintendo. Players control Donkey Kong and his friends through a series of beautifully designed levels, each filled with challenges, enemies and secrets to discover. The game boasts stunning graphics, an immersive soundtrack and refined gameplay mechanics. “Tropical Freeze” offers a demanding yet rewarding platforming experience, with a depth and creativity that will appeal to long-time fans and newcomers alike.
20. Sonic Boom: Rise of Lyric (2014)
An action-adventure game for the Nintendo Wii U. Released in 2014, it follows Sonic and his friends as they battle the ancient villain Lyric. Despite expectations, it received negative reviews due to technical issues and uninspiring gameplay.
19. Hyrule Warriors (2014)
Hyrule Warriors merges the gameplay of “The Legend of Zelda” with that of “Dynasty Warriors”. Players battle hordes of enemies as iconic Zelda characters across expansive maps. With single-player campaigns, multiplayer modes and DLC packs, it offers a rich, action-packed experience in the world of Hyrule.
18. ZombiU (2012)
ZombiU is a survival horror game set in zombie-infested London. Players scavenge for resources and fight zombies using a variety of weapons. The game uses the Wii U GamePad for inventory management and environmental analysis. With permanent death mechanisms adding tension, it offers a unique experience on the Wii U platform.
17. Yoshi's Woolly World (2015)
Yoshi's Woolly World is a charming platform game for the Wii U. In a world made of wool and textiles, players guide Yoshi through charming levels filled with inventive obstacles and enemies. With its cooperative multiplayer mode, two players can team up to tackle challenges together. Collect pearls and hidden objects to unlock costumes for Yoshi, each with unique abilities. Praised for its charming graphics and enjoyable gameplay, this is a welcome entry in the Yoshi series.
16. Paper Mario Color Splash (2016)
A role-playing game developed by Intelligent Systems and published by Nintendo for the Wii U. In the game, players control Mario in his quest to restore the color of Prism Island, which has been drained of its hue by the evil Bowser. The game features a unique paper-based visual style and a turn-based combat system where players use painted cards to execute attacks and solve puzzles. While it was appreciated for its humor and visuals, some criticized its combat mechanics and lack of innovation compared to previous entries in the series.
15. New Super Mario Bros. U (2012)
New Super Mario Bros. U is a 2D platform game developed and published by Nintendo. It follows Mario, Luigi and their friends on a journey to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser's clutches once more. The game features traditional Mario gameplay, with players navigating through various levels filled with enemies, obstacles and power-ups. “New Super Mario Bros. U” introduces new features such as the Super Nut and the ability to play with your Mii character. With vibrant graphics and classic Mario gameplay, it's a welcome addition to the series and a highlight on the Wii U platform.
14. DuckTales Remastered (2013)
DuckTales Remastered is a platform game developed by WayForward Technologies and published by Capcom. It is a high-definition remake of the classic 1989 NES game “DuckTales”, based on the Disney animated TV series of the same name. Players control Scrooge as he travels to various locations around the world in search of treasure.
13. Xenoblade Chronicles X (2015)
Xenoblade Chronicles X est un RPG d'action pour la Wii U. Situé sur la planète extraterrestre Mira, les joueurs explorent des environnements vastes, combattent des créatures et découvrent des mystères. Avec une personnalisation approfondie et un combat en temps réel, il offre un gameplay immersif et des graphismes époustouflants. Malgré sa complexité, c'est un titre remarquable dans la série Xenoblade et sur la plateforme Wii U.
12. Splatoon (2015)
Splatoon est un jeu de tir à la troisième personne coloré et inventif développé et édité par Nintendo pour la Wii U. Les joueurs contrôlent des personnages appelés "Inklings", qui peuvent se transformer entre des formes humanoïdes et de calamar. Le jeu propose des matchs multijoueurs rapides où les équipes s'affrontent pour recouvrir la carte de la couleur de leur équipe. "Splatoon" a été acclamé pour sa nouvelle approche du genre du jeu de tir, son style artistique vibrant et ses mécanismes de jeu innovants. Avec des mises à jour régulières et une base de fans dévouée, il est devenu l'un des titres phares de la Wii U et a donné naissance à une franchise à succès pour Nintendo.
11. Kirby and the Rainbow Curse (2015)
Kirby and the Rainbow Curse is a platform game developed by HAL Laboratory and published by Nintendo for the Wii U. In the game, players guide Kirby through levels by drawing rainbow strings on the Wii U GamePad to help him navigate obstacles and defeat enemies. The game features a charming clay art style and offers a cooperative multiplayer mode, allowing friends to control additional characters called Waddle Dees. “Kirby and the Rainbow Curse” has been praised for its unique gameplay mechanics, charming visuals and catchy soundtrack, making it a welcome entry in the Kirby series and a flagship title on the Wii U.
10. Game & Wario (2013)
Game & Wario is a festive video game developed and published by Nintendo for the Wii U. It features a collection of mini-games designed to showcase the unique capabilities of the Wii U GamePad. Players can take part in a variety of activities, including drawing, rhythm challenges and multiplayer competitions. Although “Game & Wario” has received mixed reviews from critics, it is praised for its creativity and for offering entertaining experiences for groups of players. Despite its mixed reception, it remains a notable title in the library.
9. Nintendo Land (2012)
Nintendo Land is a party game for the Wii U featuring mini-games based on Nintendo franchises. Players explore themed zones with attractions inspired by games like “The Legend of Zelda” and “Mario”. With a mix of single-player challenges and multiplayer modes, it offers fun experiences for players of all ages.
8. Mario Party 10 (2015)
Mario Party 10 is a multiplayer party game developed by NDcube for the Wii U. It features virtual board gameplay where players compete to collect coins and stars while taking part in mini-games. A new feature is the “Bowser Party” mode, where one player controls Bowser using the Wii U GamePad while others play as Mario and his friends. Despite mixed reviews, it offers fun multiplayer entertainment for fans of the series.
7. Rayman Legends (2013)
Rayman Legends is a platform game developed by Ubisoft Montpellier and published by Ubisoft. It follows the eponymous Rayman character and his friends as they traverse colorful, whimsical levels. The game features traditional side-scrolling gameplay with an emphasis on precise platform jumping, as well as rhythm-based levels and a cooperative multiplayer mode. Rayman Legends has been acclaimed for its stunning visuals, imaginative level design and precise controls, making it one of the best platform games of its generation.
6. Bayonetta 2 (2014)
Bayonetta 2 is a hack-and-slash action-adventure game developed by PlatinumGames and published by Nintendo for the Wii U. It follows the eponymous character, Bayonetta, as she battles angels and demons in a quest to save her friend's soul from the depths of Hell. The game features fast-paced combat, complex combo systems and over-the-top action scenes. “Bayonetta 2” has received rave reviews for its polished gameplay, stunning visuals and captivating story, making it one of the Wii U's flagship titles.
5. Super Mario 3D World (2013)
Super Mario 3D World is a platform game developed and published by Nintendo for the Wii U. It combines elements of traditional 2D Mario games with 3D gameplay. Players can choose from several characters, including Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach and Toad, each with unique abilities. The game features vibrant, creative levels, cooperative multiplayer for up to four players and the introduction of the Super Bell, which transforms characters into feline versions with special abilities. “Super Mario 3D World” has been acclaimed for its inventive level design, engaging gameplay and charming visuals.
4. Mario Kart 8 (2014)
Mario Kart 8 is a kart racing game developed and published by Nintendo for the Wii U. It features iconic characters from the Mario franchise racing on imaginative tracks, using various power-ups to gain the upper hand. The game introduces anti-gravity sections, allowing you to run on walls and ceilings, and features both single-player and multiplayer modes, including online play. Known for its polished gameplay, superb HD graphics and robust track design, “Mario Kart 8” received rave reviews and became one of the best-selling games on the Wii U.
3. Super Smash Bros. (2014)
Building on the successful formula of its predecessors, “Super Smash Bros. for Wii U” features an extensive roster of playable characters from various Nintendo franchises, as well as guests such as Sonic the Hedgehog and Mega Man. Players can engage in fast-paced four-player battles on dynamic stages, using a wide range of attacks and special moves to defeat their opponents. With its polished gameplay, stunning visuals and robust multiplayer options, “Super Smash Bros. for Wii U” offers an exhilarating experience for casual and competitive gamers alike.
2. Zelda Wind Waker HD (2013)
The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD is a high-definition remaster of the classic action-adventure game originally released for the Nintendo GameCube. Developed by Nintendo, this enhanced version was released on the Wii U in 2013. Players embark on an epic sea journey as Link, crossing the vast ocean, exploring islands and battling enemies to rescue his sister and save the world from the clutches of the evil Ganondorf. With stunning cell-shaded visuals, refined gameplay mechanics and new features such as the Quick Sail and Tingle Bottle, “The Wind Waker HD” offers long-time fans and newcomers alike a fresh, immersive experience in the beloved world of Hyrule.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (2017)
Explore a vast, immersive open world filled with mystery and danger. Solve puzzles, battle enemies and uncover the secrets of Hyrule as you strive to defeat the evil Ganon of the Scourge. With its breathtaking landscapes, dynamic gameplay and incomparable sense of freedom, “Breath of the Wild” offers an unforgettable adventure that redefines the boundaries of the beloved Zelda series.
These 40 games represent the very best that the Wii U has to offer, showcasing a wide range of genres and gaming experiences. Each title brings something unique to the table, demonstrating the innovative spirit and creative talent of Nintendo and its partners. Whether you're rediscovering the Wii U or discovering it for the first time, these games are essential additions to your video game library.
