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BEST WII U GAMES OF 2026

Updated
Updated
BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK
Nintendo WUPPBDME
Nintendo
WUPPBDME
Open-World Zelda Adventure
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild redefines the series with a vast open world, innovative gameplay mechanics, and a captivating story. Explore, solve puzzles, and battle foes in Hyrule like never before.
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Pros & Cons
PROS
  • Immersive open world
  • Innovative gameplay mechanics
  • Endless exploration opportunities
CONS
  • Occasional frame rate drops
  • Weapon durability can frustrate
BEST OF THE BEST
Nintendo WUPPAPKE
Epic Platforming Adventure
Platform: Wii U
Genre: Platformer
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: E for Everyone
Release Date: November 22, 2013

Super Mario 3D World is a standout title in the Mario franchise, blending the charm of classic 2D Mario games with the depth and exploration of 3D environments. Players can choose from Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Toad, each with unique abilities, as they traverse imaginative worlds filled with secrets and surprises.

The addition of the Cat Suit power-up introduces new ways to navigate levels and defeat enemies.The game shines in multiplayer mode, allowing up to four players to cooperate or compete as they race through levels.

The colorful visuals, catchy soundtrack, and inventive level design keep the experience fresh from start to finish. Whether playing alone or with friends, Super Mario 3D World delivers hours of engaging gameplay and replay value.

PROS
  • Fun multiplayer experience
  • Inventive level design
  • Charming visuals and music
CONS
  • No online multiplayer
  • Camera can be tricky in co-op
BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK
Nintendo WUPPBDME
Open-World Zelda Adventure
Platform: Wii U
Genre: Action-Adventure
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E10+
Release Date: March 3, 2017

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a groundbreaking entry in the Zelda series, offering players unprecedented freedom to explore the kingdom of Hyrule. The game features a massive open world filled with secrets, puzzles, and dynamic weather systems.

Players can climb mountains, glide across valleys, and interact with a living ecosystem.Combat is fluid and strategic, with a variety of weapons and tools at your disposal. The game encourages creativity, allowing players to approach challenges in multiple ways.

Shrines scattered throughout the world provide bite-sized puzzles and rewards, while the main quest to defeat Calamity Ganon offers a compelling narrative. Breath of the Wild is praised for its sense of discovery and immersive gameplay.

PROS
  • Immersive open world
  • Innovative gameplay mechanics
  • Endless exploration opportunities
CONS
  • Occasional frame rate drops
  • Weapon durability can frustrate
Nintendo WUPPAECA
Ultimate Kart Racing Fun
Platform: Wii U
Genre: Racing
Players: 1-4 local, up to 12 online
ESRB Rating: E for Everyone
Release Date: May 30, 2014

Mario Kart 8 is the definitive kart racing experience on the Wii U, featuring stunning HD graphics and a wide selection of characters and vehicles. The game introduces anti-gravity sections, allowing for creative track designs and new racing strategies.

Players can race on classic and new tracks, each filled with shortcuts and hazards.The game supports local multiplayer for up to four players and online races with up to twelve participants. With a variety of modes, including Grand Prix, Time Trials, and Battle, Mario Kart 8 offers endless replayability.

The robust item system and tight controls ensure that every race is exciting and unpredictable.

PROS
  • Exciting multiplayer modes
  • Beautiful graphics
  • Great track variety
CONS
  • Battle mode less engaging
  • DLC required for full roster
Nintendo WUPPAMAE
Creative Platforming Challenge
Platform: Wii U
Genre: Platformer/Level Editor
Players: 1-4 (local)
ESRB Rating: E for Everyone
Release Date: September 11, 2015

Super Mario Maker empowers players to become game designers, offering a robust set of tools to create custom Mario levels. The intuitive interface makes it easy to place blocks, enemies, and power-ups, while the ability to switch between classic Mario styles adds variety.

Players can upload their creations for others to play, and browse a vast library of user-made levels.The game includes a selection of pre-made courses and challenges, providing inspiration and showcasing the possibilities of the editor.

Super Mario Maker fosters a vibrant community, with players rating and commenting on each other's levels. Whether you enjoy building or playing, the game offers endless entertainment.

PROS
  • Endless user-generated content
  • Easy-to-use creation tools
  • Strong online community
CONS
  • Requires internet for sharing
  • Some features locked behind updates
Nintendo WUPPAE2E
Colorful Squid Shooter
Platform: Wii U
Genre: Third-Person Shooter
Players: 1 (local), 2 (local split-screen), 8 (online)
ESRB Rating: E10+
Release Date: May 29, 2015

Splatoon introduces a new kind of shooter, focusing on territory control rather than eliminations. Players transform between kid and squid forms, using ink to cover the map and outmaneuver opponents. The game’s vibrant visuals and catchy soundtrack create an energetic atmosphere.

Multiplayer is the heart of Splatoon, with 4v4 Turf War matches and ranked modes offering intense competition. A single-player campaign provides creative platforming challenges and boss battles. Regular updates and events keep the community engaged, making Splatoon a standout title for the Wii U.

PROS
  • Fresh, innovative gameplay
  • Strong online community
  • Stylish visuals and music
CONS
  • Requires internet for full experience
  • Limited local multiplayer options

How our picks compare

SpecificationNintendo WUPPAPKENintendo WUPPBDMENintendo WUPPAECANintendo WUPPAMAENintendo WUPPAE2E
PlatformWii UWii UWii UWii UWii U
GenrePlatformerAction-AdventureRacingPlatformer/Level EditorThird-Person Shooter
Players1-411-4 local, up to 12 online1-4 (local)1 (local), 2 (local split-screen), 8 (online)
ESRB RatingE for EveryoneE10+E for EveryoneE for EveryoneE10+
Release DateNovember 22, 2013March 3, 2017May 30, 2014September 11, 2015May 29, 2015

Finding the best Wii U games can be an exciting journey, especially since the console boasts a unique library that blends Nintendo’s signature creativity with innovative gameplay. To make the most of your search, it’s important to consider several factors that go beyond simply looking at top ten lists or sales numbers.

Start by reflecting on your personal preferences. The Wii U offers a wide range of experiences, from platformers and action-adventures to party games and RPGs. Think about the genres you enjoy most. If you love classic Nintendo franchises, you’ll find that titles like "Super Mario 3D World," "The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD," and "Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze" are often celebrated for their engaging gameplay and polished design. For those who appreciate multiplayer experiences, "Mario Kart 8" and "Super Smash Bros. for Wii U" are frequently recommended due to their fun factor and replayability with friends and family.

Next, consider the unique features of the Wii U itself. The GamePad opens up new ways to interact with games, offering touch controls, off-TV play, and asymmetric multiplayer. Some games make particularly creative use of these features, such as "Nintendo Land," which showcases the system’s capabilities through a collection of mini-games, or "ZombiU," which uses the GamePad for inventory management and puzzles, adding tension and immersion.

Critical reception and community feedback can also guide your choices. Look for reviews from both professional critics and everyday players to get a balanced perspective. Sites like Metacritic aggregate scores and provide user reviews, which can help you gauge a game’s lasting appeal. However, don’t rely solely on high scores; sometimes hidden gems like "Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE" or "Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker" may not have received as much attention but offer memorable experiences.

Another aspect to keep in mind is the availability of enhanced ports or sequels on newer systems. Some Wii U games, such as "Mario Kart 8" and "Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze," have been re-released on the Nintendo Switch with additional content. If you own a Switch, you might prefer to play these updated versions. On the other hand, certain titles remain exclusive to the Wii U, making them especially valuable for collectors or those seeking unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.

Don’t overlook the importance of local multiplayer and family-friendly options. The Wii U is well-suited for gatherings, with games like "Nintendo Land," "Wii Party U," and "New Super Mario Bros. U" providing accessible fun for players of all ages and skill levels. If you’re interested in single-player adventures, the system also offers deep, story-driven games like "Xenoblade Chronicles X" and "Bayonetta 2," which cater to those looking for immersive worlds and complex mechanics.

Finally, take the time to explore the Wii U eShop, which features a selection of indie games and classic titles from previous Nintendo systems. This digital storefront can introduce you to lesser-known games and retro favorites, expanding your library beyond retail releases.

By considering your own tastes, researching critical and community opinions, and exploring both well-known and overlooked titles, you’ll be able to find the Wii U games that best suit your interests and make the most of what the system has to offer.