Released in late 2012, the Wii U was best known for its unique gamepad controller with embedded touchscreen. It was the first Nintendo console capable of pushing HD graphics.
The Wii U may not have enjoyed the same commercial success as its predecessor. Still, it boasts a library of exceptional games that showcase its unique features and innovative gameplay. In this article, we celebrate the very best Wii U games. From captivating adventures to creative platforming and addictive multiplayer experiences, these titles all have lasting appeal.
10. The Wonderful 101
The Wonderful 101 offers a unique and action-packed experience where players control a team of superheroes known as The Wonderful 100. Players use the Wii U GamePad to draw shapes and command their heroes to form powerful weapons and fight against invading alien forces. The objective is to save the Earth from destruction and defeat the evil GEATHJERK organization.
The Wonderful 101 grabbed players due to its innovative gameplay mechanics, vibrant visuals, and tongue-in-cheek sense of humor. Its energetic combat, clever use of the GamePad, and the inclusion of epic boss battles made it a standout title that really showcased the Wii U’s capabilities.
9. Xenoblade Chronicles X
Xenoblade Chronicles X transports players to a vast, immersive science-fiction world filled with awe-inspiring landscapes and epic battles. Players assume the role of a customizable character as they explore the planet Mira, engaging in real-time battles against hostile creatures and unraveling the planet’s mysteries. The objective is to survive, build a thriving community, and find a way to return home.
The expansive open world, deep and customizable combat system, and captivating storyline drew in fans of the franchise and those new to the series. Its beautiful environments, diverse quests and side activities, and sense of exploration and discovery made it a standout RPG experience on the Wii U.
8. Super Smash Bros. for Wii U
Super Smash Bros. for Wii U brings together an incredible roster of Nintendo characters and other iconic figures in an explosive and highly competitive fighting game. Players engage in fast-paced battles on dynamic stages, using a variety of attacks, items, and power-ups. The objective is to knock opponents off the screen and be the last one standing.
Addictive multiplayer mayhem, a diverse roster of characters, and the inclusion of new fighters such as Mega Man and Pac-Man made Super Smash Bros. for Wii U a must-buy for fans. Its polished gameplay mechanics, extensive customization options, and the ability to play with friends locally or online made it a staple for both casual and competitive gamers.
7. Bayonetta 2
Bayonetta 2 delivers a thrilling and stylish action experience with its over-the-top battles and charismatic protagonist. Players assume the role of Bayonetta, a powerful witch, as she battles hordes of angels and demons to save her friend’s soul. The objective is to unleash devastating combos, master various weapons, and engage in intense boss battles.
Bayonetta 2 captivated players with its fast-paced and fluid combat, breathtaking visuals, and captivating storyline. Its intricate combo system, thrilling set pieces, and the inclusion of new gameplay mechanics and weapons made it a must-play title for action enthusiasts on the Wii U.
6. Pikmin 3
Pikmin 3 combines strategy and exploration in a charming and immersive adventure. Players control a team of adorable plant-like creatures known as Pikmin as they navigate diverse environments, solve puzzles, and collect resources to save their home planet. The objective is to explore the world, overcome obstacles, and defeat hostile creatures.
The innovative gameplay mechanics, strategic decision-making, and beautiful visuals drew in fans of puzzles and strategy. Its immersive world-building, engaging puzzle-solving, and the inclusion of multiple playable characters with unique abilities made it a standout title on the Wii U.
5. Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze takes the iconic ape on a challenging and visually stunning platforming adventure. Players guide Donkey Kong and his friends through meticulously designed levels, collecting bananas, solving puzzles, and battling enemies. The objective is to rescue Donkey Kong Island from the invading Snowmads.
Tropical Freeze shined with its tight controls, creative level design, and satisfying level of difficulty. Its lush and vibrant visuals, dynamic music composed by David Wise, and new playable characters such as Dixie Kong and Cranky Kong added depth and variety to the gameplay experience.
4. Mario Kart 8
Mario Kart 8 delivers high-octane racing action with a cast of beloved Nintendo characters. Players choose their favorite racer and compete on gravity-defying tracks filled with power-ups, obstacles, and shortcuts. The objective is to finish in first place and claim victory.
As always in the series, Mario Kart 8 treated players with polished gameplay, stunning visuals, and exciting multiplayer races. Its diverse range of tracks, the addition of anti-gravity sections, and the inclusion of downloadable content (DLC) packs with new characters and tracks expanded the already robust experience. With its addictive gameplay, catchy music, and the ability to race against local and online friends, Mario Kart 8 became a must-have title for Wii U owners.
3. Splatoon
Splatoon offers a unique take on the multiplayer shooter genre with its colorful and ink-splatting gameplay. Players control characters known as Inklings and compete in fast-paced, team-based matches to cover the most territory with their team’s ink. The objective is to work together, strategize, and claim victory in various game modes.
Splatoon’s accessible gameplay, regular updates with new maps and weapons, and the inclusion of a single-player campaign provided a fresh and vibrant third person shooter experience on the Wii U.
2. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild revolutionized the beloved franchise with its open-world exploration and innovative gameplay. Players assume the role of Link as he embarks on a quest to defeat the malevolent Calamity Ganon and save the kingdom of Hyrule. The objective is to explore the vast open world, solve puzzles, battle enemies, and uncover the land’s secrets.
Breath of the Wild blew players away with its breathtaking visuals, immersive gameplay mechanics, and an unparalleled sense of freedom in the series. Its dynamic weather system, intuitive cooking and crafting, and the ability to approach challenges in various ways made it a standout title that redefined the open-world genre.
What game could top Breath of the Wild? Let’s take it back to the basics…
1. Super Mario 3D World
Super Mario 3D World takes the beloved plumber and his friends on a delightful 3D platforming adventure. Players navigate through colorful and imaginative levels, collecting power-ups and defeating enemies in a quest to rescue the kidnapped Sprixie Princesses. The objective is to reach the end of each level, overcome obstacles, and defeat bosses.
Tight controls, clever level design, and seamless multiplayer experience define the Mario experience, and Super Mario 3D World is no exception. Its charming art style, inventive power-ups, and the addition of new characters, such as Rosalina, made it a must-play title for both solo and cooperative play on the Wii U.
