The best Wii U game is The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild — it’s a masterpiece that uses the GamePad beautifully and delivers an open-world adventure that redefined the series. While it’s also on Switch, the Wii U version is nearly identical and often cheaper, making it the single best reason to own the console. If you want a game that showcases everything the Wii U can do, this is it.
What to Look For
When picking Wii U games, focus on these criteria:
- GamePad Integration: The Wii U’s unique tablet controller is its biggest selling point. Look for games that use it in creative ways — off-screen play, map management, or asymmetric multiplayer. Games that ignore it are often just weaker versions of other console titles.
- Exclusivity: Many Wii U games were later ported to Switch (like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe or Splatoon 2). If you already own a Switch, prioritize games that remain exclusive to the Wii U, such as Super Mario 3D World or Pikmin 3, unless you specifically want the cheaper Wii U version.
- Local Multiplayer: The Wii U is a great party console. Games with strong local multiplayer (like Nintendo Land or Super Smash Bros.) offer hours of fun with friends and family — a key advantage over the Switch’s more portable focus.
- Replay Value: Look for games with long campaigns, side quests, or online modes. A game you can sink 50+ hours into is a better investment than a short linear experience.
- Price & Availability: Wii U games are no longer in production, so prices vary wildly. Some are cheap, others are collector’s items. Check current prices before buying, especially for rare titles like Xenoblade Chronicles X.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Strengths: A massive open world that encourages exploration, physics-based puzzles, and a subtle but brilliant use of the GamePad for map, inventory, and Shrine puzzles. It’s a generation-defining title that still looks stunning.
Trade-offs: It’s also on Switch, and the Switch version runs slightly better (higher resolution, faster loading). The Wii U version has some minor frame rate dips in busy areas.
Who it suits: Anyone who wants a deep, immersive adventure. If you don’t own a Switch, this is the must-have Wii U game. If you do, the Wii U version is still a great budget option.
Super Mario 3D World
Strengths: Brilliant level design, tight platforming, and up to 4-player co-op. The GamePad is used for off-screen play and some touch-based bonus levels. It’s pure, polished fun from start to finish.
Trade-offs: It was ported to Switch with added content, so the Wii U version is now less valuable. The co-op can get chaotic with friendly fire, and the GamePad features are minimal.
Who it suits: Families, friends, and anyone who loves classic Mario platforming. If you want the definitive version, get the Switch port; if you only have a Wii U, this is a must-own.
Mario Kart 8
Strengths: The best Mario Kart in the series — smooth 60fps, anti-gravity tracks, and a huge roster. The GamePad shows the track map and items, and off-screen play is great for TV sharing.
Trade-offs: The Switch version (Mario Kart 8 Deluxe) includes all DLC and more characters, making the Wii U version feel incomplete. Online multiplayer is now less populated, but local play is still excellent.
Who it suits: Racing fans and party hosts. If you already own the Switch version, skip this; otherwise, it’s a fantastic pick.
Splatoon
Strengths: A fresh, ink-based shooter with a unique style. The GamePad is used for the map and to super-jump to teammates — a great use of the second screen. The single-player campaign is short but fun, and the multiplayer is addictive.
Trade-offs: The online community is smaller now, and the sequel on Switch is more polished. The motion controls take time to get used to, and the game requires a solid internet connection.
Who it suits: Shooter fans who want something different, and players who enjoy competitive online play. If you have a Switch, Splatoon 2 is the better choice, but Splatoon is still a great Wii U exclusive.
Super Smash Bros. for Wii U
Strengths: A huge roster, tons of modes, and 8-player local multiplayer. The GamePad is used for custom moves and as a controller option. It’s the definitive party fighting game on the console.
Trade-offs: The 3DS version is nearly identical, and the Switch version (Ultimate) is superior in every way. The Wii U version lacks some characters and stages from Ultimate, and online play is now sparse.
Who it suits: Fighting game fans and groups of friends. If you don’t have a Switch, this is a great way to enjoy Smash; if you do, Ultimate is the better investment.
Pikmin 3
Strengths: A clever real-time strategy game with beautiful visuals and a touching story. The GamePad is used for map control and directing your Pikmin — one of the best uses of the second screen. The co-op mode is also fun.
Trade-offs: It’s been ported to Switch with all DLC, so the Wii U version is now less desirable. The campaign is short (around 10-15 hours), and the game can be challenging for newcomers.
Who it suits: Strategy fans and those who appreciate thoughtful game design. If you want the complete package, get the Switch version; otherwise, this is a hidden gem on Wii U.
How to Choose
Budget: If you’re on a tight budget, look for games that are both cheap and offer long playtimes. Mario Kart 8 and Super Mario 3D World are often found at reasonable prices. Avoid rare titles like Xenoblade Chronicles X unless you’re a collector.
Use case: If you play alone, prioritize single-player experiences like Breath of the Wild or Pikmin 3. If you entertain guests, get Super Smash Bros. or Nintendo Land. For online play, Splatoon is your best bet.
Common trade-offs: The biggest trade-off is whether to buy a Wii U game or its Switch port. If you own a Switch, the Switch version usually offers more content and better performance — but at a higher price. The Wii U version is often cheaper and still plays well, so it’s a good budget option. Also, consider the GamePad: games that use it well (like Breath of the Wild or Pikmin 3) feel more unique; games that don’t (like most ports) are just standard console games.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Wii U games still worth buying in 2024?
Yes, if you own a Wii U. The console has a solid library of exclusives that are still fun today. However, many of the best games have been ported to Switch, so check if you already own the Switch version before buying.
Can I play Wii U games on the Switch?
No, the Switch is not backward compatible with Wii U discs or digital purchases. However, many Wii U games have been re-released on Switch (often with extra content), so you can play them there.
What is the rarest Wii U game?
Some of the rarest include Xenoblade Chronicles X, Devil’s Third, and Game & Wario. These can be expensive and hard to find, so be prepared to pay a premium if you want them.
Do Wii U games require the GamePad?
Some games require the GamePad for certain features (like off-screen play or map display), but most can be played with a Pro Controller. A few games, like Nintendo Land, are designed specifically around the GamePad and require it.
Is the Wii U worth buying in 2024?
Only if you can find one cheaply and you’re interested in its exclusive games. The console is underpowered compared to modern systems, but it has a unique library that can’t be played elsewhere. If you already have a Switch, the Wii U is less essential.
What is the best Wii U game for kids?
Super Mario 3D World is a great choice — it’s colorful, forgiving, and supports co-op. Nintendo Land is also excellent for kids, with mini-games that use the GamePad in fun ways.
Bottom Line
If you own a Wii U, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is the definitive must-have — it’s a masterpiece that justifies the console. For multiplayer fun, Super Mario 3D World and Mario Kart 8 are essential. If you don’t have a Switch, these are all great picks; if you do, consider whether you want the extra content of the Switch versions or the cheaper Wii U originals. Whatever you choose, the Wii U’s best games still hold up remarkably well.
Related
Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.
More cards in this drawer
- Compressed Zipped Folder Access Denied? Fix It
- IPTV TV Boxes: How to Choose the Right Streaming Device
- Custom Races in Assetto Corsa: Server Setup Guide
- Dueling Grounds Events Schedule: Full Guide
- Evaluating Co-Packaged Optics Switches for AI Data Centers
- RTX 5080 Best Settings for 1440p & 4K Gaming