Discover the Top Games for Wii U That Still Shine in 2025

Even though the Wii U isn’t the newest console around, it still has some really great games that are totally worth playing today. Some of these games were so good, they even got brought over to the Switch later on! But if you’ve still got a Wii U collecting dust, or you’re thinking about picking one up, there are plenty of top games for Wii U that still hold up. Let’s take a look at some of the best.

Key Takeaways

The Wii U, despite its sales struggles, hosted a library of top-tier games, many of which are still enjoyable years later.
Several Wii U titles were so popular that they were later ported or remastered for the Nintendo Switch, often with enhancements.
The console offered unique experiences, including innovative uses of the GamePad controller in certain titles.
From massive open-world adventures to tight platformers and unique multiplayer games, the Wii U’s best games cover a wide range of genres.
Many of the top games for Wii U are first-party Nintendo titles, showcasing the company’s strength in creating beloved franchises.

1. The Legend Of Zelda: Breath Of The Wild

Okay, let’s talk about The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Even though it’s also on the Switch, the Wii U version is still a fantastic way to experience this game. When it first came out in 2017, it felt like a breath of fresh air for the whole Zelda series, and honestly, for open-world games in general. It really broke away from the old Zelda formulas.

This game is all about freedom and exploration. You’re dropped into this massive world, Hyrule, and pretty much told to go figure things out. There’s no strict path you have to follow. You can climb almost anything, glide from high places, and tackle challenges in whatever order you want. It’s a huge departure from previous games, which often guided you more directly.

What makes it so special is how everything works together. The physics system is wild – you can set grass on fire to create updrafts, use metal objects during thunderstorms to shock enemies, or even just roll boulders down hills. It encourages you to experiment constantly. The world itself is beautiful, even on the Wii U, with stunning landscapes that make you just want to wander around.

Here are a few things that really stand out:

Vast Open World: Hyrule is enormous and packed with secrets to discover.
Emergent Gameplay: The game’s systems allow for creative problem-solving and unexpected outcomes.
Shrine Puzzles: Over 100 mini-dungeons offer clever puzzles that test your wits and mastery of the game’s mechanics.
Survival Elements: Managing stamina, cooking food for buffs, and dealing with different weather conditions add another layer to the adventure.

Sure, the Switch version might look a bit sharper and run a little smoother, but the core experience on the Wii U is absolutely intact. The GamePad even offers some neat features for map and inventory management, which is pretty handy. If you haven’t played it yet, or even if you have, the Wii U version is a grand adventure that’s absolutely worth your time.

2. Mario Kart 8

Alright, let’s talk about Mario Kart 8 on the Wii U. You might think, ‘Another Mario Kart? Haven’t we played this a million times?’ And yeah, I get it. But this one really felt like a step up. For starters, it’s just gorgeous. Seriously, it was one of the best-looking games on the Wii U, finally bringing Nintendo into the HD era with style. The colors pop, the tracks are detailed, and it just holds up visually even now.

But it’s not just about looks. They shook things up with the gameplay too. The anti-gravity sections were a blast, letting you race on walls and ceilings, which made familiar tracks feel totally new. Plus, they finally added a way to deal with that dreaded blue shell – a small change, but a welcome one for anyone who’s ever been in first place only to have their hopes dashed.

Here’s a quick rundown of what makes it special:

Stunning HD Graphics: A real visual treat that showed off the Wii U’s capabilities.
Anti-Gravity Racing: Adds a unique twist to the track designs.
Expanded Roster and Tracks: Plenty of characters and courses, including a good mix of new and returning favorites.
Improved Online Play: Smoother connections and the ability to share highlight videos.

And the online play? It was pretty solid for its time, letting you race against people from all over. It’s a sequel that got a lot right without losing that core Mario Kart fun that makes you want to play just one more race. It’s definitely a game that still holds up if you’re looking for some competitive, colorful racing action.

3. Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze

Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is a game that really shows off what the Wii U could do. Developed by Retro Studios, the same folks who brought us the Donkey Kong Country Returns on the Wii, this sequel takes the classic platforming formula and cranks it up a notch. The visuals are just stunning, with incredibly detailed environments that feel alive. Seriously, the jungle looks so lush, and the icy levels are just as sharp. It’s a tough game, no doubt about it. You’ll probably die a lot, but it’s the kind of hard that feels fair. You know, the kind where you can see what you did wrong and feel like you can beat it with just one more try.

What really makes Tropical Freeze stand out are the little things. The music, for instance, is absolutely fantastic, really adding to the atmosphere of each level. And then there are the other Kongs you can team up with: Diddy, Dixie, and Cranky. Each one brings a unique ability to the table, which you’ll need to figure out to get past certain obstacles. It adds a nice layer of strategy to the platforming.

Here’s a quick look at the Kongs and their abilities:

Donkey Kong: The main man, with his ground pound and barrel jet.
Diddy Kong: Carries a barrel jet pack for an extra mid-air jump and can shoot peanuts.
Dixie Kong: Uses her hair to hover in the air, giving you more control.
Cranky Kong: Can bounce off enemies and objects with his cane, like Scrooge McDuck.

It’s a game that demands precision, but when you nail a tricky jump or beat a tough boss, the feeling is pretty great. It’s a real gem for the Wii U library.

4. Bayonetta 2

Okay, so Nintendo is usually all about family-friendly fun, right? That’s why seeing Bayonetta 2 land on the Wii U was a bit of a surprise, but honestly, it was a welcome one. This game brought a totally different vibe to the console, something a little more mature and over-the-top. It’s that kind of stylish, almost silly action that makes you feel good about playing games, no matter your age.

The gameplay itself is just incredibly fast and smooth. You’re pulling off these wild combos and taking down huge enemies, and it feels amazing. It’s the kind of game that makes you want to replay sections just to get a better score or see a cooler move. Plus, the original Bayonetta was included, which was a nice bonus for anyone who hadn’t played it before. It really was a standout title for the Wii U, offering something unique.

Here’s a quick look at what makes it special:

Fast-paced combat: String together combos with ease.
Stylish presentation: Over-the-top action and a unique aesthetic.
Engaging story: Follow the adventures of the titular witch.
Included original: Get the first game as a bonus.

5. Splatoon

Splatoon was a real breath of fresh air when it first came out on the Wii U. It’s a shooter, sure, but instead of just blasting enemies, you’re covering the map in colorful ink. It’s a concept that’s both simple and incredibly fun, making it stand out in a genre often filled with serious tones.

The core gameplay loop is all about turf control. You play as an Inkling, a kid who can turn into a squid, and your main goal is to paint more of the arena than the opposing team. It sounds straightforward, but there’s a surprising amount of strategy involved. You can swim through your own ink to move faster and refill your ink tank, which is a neat trick that adds a whole new layer to movement.

Here’s a quick rundown of what makes Splatoon so engaging:

Ink Mechanics: Using your ink isn’t just for covering territory; it’s also how you move around quickly and reload your weapon. Getting caught in enemy ink slows you down, making positioning super important.
Weapon Variety: From rapid-fire splatters to heavy-duty rollers, there’s a weapon for every playstyle. Each weapon feels distinct and requires a different approach to master.
Teamwork: While individual skill matters, coordinating with your teammates to cover the map and push objectives is key to victory.

Even though the Wii U isn’t the newest console, Splatoon still holds up remarkably well. The vibrant visuals and unique gameplay make it a joy to jump back into, and it’s easy to see why it spawned a successful sequel. It’s a game that proves Nintendo can still innovate and create something truly special.

6. Super Mario 3D World

Super Mario 3D World is a game that really hits the sweet spot between the classic 2D Mario feel and the more open 3D adventures. It came out in 2013, and honestly, it still holds up incredibly well. It’s packed with so much stuff to do, you’ll probably be playing long after you see the credits roll. There are even secret characters and extra worlds to find.

What makes it special is how it introduces new ideas constantly, kind of like the Mario Galaxy games did. It takes the fun of 3D Land and just makes it even better. Plus, playing with friends or family is actually great here. Unlike some other Mario games where playing together can get messy, the levels in 3D World are designed so you can all have fun without getting in each other’s way. It’s a really smart evolution of the platforming genre.

Here’s a quick look at some of its strengths:

Fantastic level design: Each world feels unique and full of clever challenges.
Great for multiplayer: Up to four players can join in, making it a perfect party game.
Lots of replayability: With hidden collectibles and unlockable content, there’s always something more to discover.

This game is a must-have for any Wii U owner, offering a polished and joyful platforming experience. It’s a perfect starting point for newcomers to 3D Mario games, while still offering plenty for seasoned players to enjoy.

7. Xenoblade Chronicles X

Okay, let’s talk about Xenoblade Chronicles X. This game is massive, and I mean massive. It throws you into the shoes of a character on the planet Mira, a place that’s both beautiful and incredibly dangerous. The sheer scale of the world is something else; you can spend hours just exploring and still find new things. It really makes you feel like you’re part of a frontier colony trying to survive.

One of the coolest parts is getting to pilot these giant mechs called Skells. They totally change how you explore and fight, letting you soar over landscapes or take on huge monsters. It adds a whole other layer to the gameplay that’s just awesome.

Here’s a quick rundown of what makes it special:

Vast Open World: Mira is huge, with diverse environments from lush forests to desolate plains.
Skell Mechs: Piloting these giant robots is a game-changer for exploration and combat.
Deep Customization: You can really tailor your character and Skells to your playstyle.
Engaging Story: While it can be a bit slow to start, the narrative about humanity’s survival on a new planet is compelling.

Getting around Mira on foot can take a while, so the Skells are a lifesaver. Some players have noted it can take around 31 minutes to cross the entire map if you’re just running. It’s a game that rewards patience and exploration, and the Wii U GamePad really helped with keeping track of everything on the map. It’s a big commitment, but for fans of sprawling JRPGs, Xenoblade Chronicles X is a treat.

8. Pikmin 3

Pikmin 3 is a real-time strategy game that is balanced, challenging, original, adorable, and entertaining. It offers a compelling experience for players. The game puts you in charge of three captains, each with their own unique skills, as they explore a vibrant alien planet to gather food for their starving home world. You’ll command armies of adorable Pikmin, each with different abilities, to overcome obstacles, defeat enemies, and collect resources. The strategic depth comes from managing your Pikmin efficiently and choosing the right type for each task.

What makes Pikmin 3 stand out on the Wii U is its smart use of the GamePad. It acts as a map, a command center, and even a way to rewind time, allowing for a level of multitasking that feels truly next-gen. You can direct your Pikmin with the stylus, scout ahead with the map, and switch between captains on the fly. It’s a system that really lets you get a handle on the chaos.

Here’s a quick look at the Pikmin types you’ll be commanding:

Red Pikmin: Stronger in combat and resistant to fire.
Yellow Pikmin: Can be thrown higher and are resistant to electricity.
Blue Pikmin: Can survive in water, which is a major hazard for other Pikmin.
Rock Pikmin (in Pikmin 3 Deluxe): Heavy hitters that can break crystal walls and are immune to crushing.
Winged Pikmin (in Pikmin 3 Deluxe): Can fly over obstacles and attack airborne enemies.

Exploring the lush environments, from fruit-filled forests to rocky caves, is a joy. The sheer scale of the world and the tiny perspective of the Pikmin create a unique sense of wonder. It’s a game that rewards patience and clever thinking, and the satisfaction of completing a difficult mission with your Pikmin army is immense. If you’re looking for a strategy game that’s both charming and deeply engaging, Pikmin 3 is a fantastic choice for your Wii U library.

9. Shovel Knight

Man, Shovel Knight. This game is just pure, unadulterated fun, right? It came out back in 2014 and it really felt like a breath of fresh air, even back then. It’s one of those indie titles that just nails the retro vibe, reminding me of the good old days of NES platformers like Mega Man and DuckTales. You play as Shovel Knight, obviously, and your main tools are your trusty shovel for digging, jumping, and, well, shoveling enemies. It’s surprisingly deep, though.

The game throws you into these really distinct worlds, each with its own theme – think fire, ice, poison, you name it. Each one feels totally different, and you’re constantly battling these quirky knights from the Order of No Quarter. They’ve all got their own personalities and attack patterns, making each boss fight a real treat. It’s the kind of game that respects your time while still offering a serious challenge.

What’s cool is that after you beat the main campaign, Yacht Club Games kept adding stuff. They released extra campaigns, each starring a different knight with unique abilities. It’s like getting multiple games in one! If you’re looking for a solid platformer that feels both familiar and fresh, you really can’t go wrong with Shovel Knight. It’s a fantastic example of what makes indie games great.

10. The Legend Of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD

Man, revisiting The Wind Waker HD on the Wii U is something else. Even years later, that cel-shaded art style just holds up so well. It’s like a cartoon that never got old. Nintendo really did a bang-up job with this remake, not just making it look pretty in high definition, but actually fixing some of the stuff that bugged people about the original. Remember how slow the end of the game could feel? They smoothed that out. And some of those stealth bits? Less of a headache now.

Sailing around the Great Sea, finding new islands, and exploring those dungeons – which are still fantastic, by the way – is just a blast. It feels like a proper Zelda adventure, but with its own unique vibe. It’s not like they added a ton of new stuff, but the tweaks they made really make a difference. It’s a classic game that got a nice polish.

Here’s why it’s still worth playing:

Timeless Art Style: The cartoon look is gorgeous and hasn’t aged a day.
Improved Pacing: The remake addresses some of the slower moments from the original.
Engaging Exploration: Discovering islands and secrets across the Great Sea is incredibly rewarding.
Classic Zelda Dungeons: The dungeon designs are still some of the best in the series.

11. Super Smash Bros. For Wii U

Oh man, Super Smash Bros. for Wii U. This one was a big deal, right? It felt like Nintendo really listened to the fans with this entry. While it kept all that fun, chaotic party vibe that made the series a hit, it also leaned into the competitive side in a way that felt really polished.

It was awesome because you could have up to eight players duking it out, which was just pure madness in the best way. Plus, they added some cool exclusive modes like Smash Tour and Special Orders that gave you more reasons to keep playing. And the controller support? Wild. You could use pretty much anything, which was great for getting everyone involved.

Here’s a quick look at some of the fighters you could pick:

Mario
Link
Samus
Pikachu
Donkey Kong
Bowser
And a whole lot more!

Honestly, it managed to be both a fantastic game for casual get-togethers and a surprisingly deep fighter for those who wanted to get serious. It really hit that sweet spot.

12. The Legend Of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD

Okay, so the Wii U didn’t get a brand-new Zelda game, but it did get some seriously good remasters. Twilight Princess HD is one of those. It came out pretty late in the Wii U’s life, but it’s a solid way to play this particular Zelda adventure. They really cleaned up the visuals, which is nice, and made some smart changes to make things less of a pain.

For starters, you can now map three items to buttons instead of just two, which is a small thing but makes a difference. They also cut down on the number of those Twilight seeds you had to collect when you were in wolf form – thank goodness. The GamePad is actually useful here, letting you check your map or swap items without pausing the whole game. It’s definitely the best way to experience this darker, more serious take on Hyrule, with its cool gadgets and that memorable companion, Midna. It might not be the most groundbreaking Zelda, but this HD version makes it shine.

Here are a few things that got a facelift:

Improved graphics: Everything just looks sharper and more detailed.
Streamlined gameplay: Less backtracking and easier inventory management.
GamePad integration: Quick access to maps and items.
Adjusted collectibles: Fewer Twilight seeds to find.

13. Rayman Legends

Rayman Legends is one of those games that just feels good to play. It’s a platformer that mixes bright, hand-drawn visuals with really tight controls, making every jump and dash feel precise. The game throws a ton of creativity at you, with levels that are not only fun to run through but also packed with secrets to find. Seriously, the sheer amount of stuff they managed to cram into each stage is impressive.

What really sets it apart, though, are the music levels. These are pure, unadulterated joy, where you’re jumping and attacking in sync with the rhythm of a song. It’s a fantastic way to cap off each world. The Wii U version even has some neat extra features that take advantage of the GamePad, making it a standout experience on the console. It’s the kind of game that’s fun whether you’re playing solo or with friends, and it holds up incredibly well.

Here’s a quick look at what makes it so good:

Gorgeous Art Style: The hand-drawn look is vibrant and full of personality.
Tight Platforming: Controls are responsive, making challenging sections feel fair.
Packed with Content: Beyond the main story, there are tons of collectibles, challenges, and bonus levels.
Unique Music Levels: These rhythm-based stages are a highlight and incredibly fun.

If you’re looking for a platformer that’s both challenging and charming, Rayman Legends is definitely worth checking out. It’s a real gem that shows off what the Wii U could do. You can find out more about this excellent game on its page.

14. Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker

Remember those little puzzle stages in Super Mario 3D World where you controlled Captain Toad? Well, Nintendo thought they were so neat that they made a whole game out of them. And honestly, it was a brilliant move. Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker is this super charming puzzle game that’s packed with some really clever challenges.

You play as Captain Toad, and sometimes Toadette, exploring these small, diorama-like levels. The goal is to grab all the shiny diamonds and reach the end, all while avoiding enemies and figuring out the best path. The catch? Captain Toad can’t jump. Yep, you heard that right. This limitation forces you to think differently about how you move through each stage, making you really look at the environment from every angle. It’s a game that’s full of pure joy and has a ton of personality.

Here’s a quick look at what makes it special:

Inventive Level Design: Each stage is a miniature world begging to be explored, with hidden secrets and clever puzzles.
Unique Gameplay Mechanics: The inability to jump changes how you approach platforming, focusing on observation and careful movement.
Endless Charm: From the characters to the music, the game oozes a delightful and whimsical atmosphere.

It’s one of those Wii U gems that feels completely unique. Even though it later came to other systems, the original Wii U version really made good use of the GamePad for looking around the levels, which added a nice touch to the experience.

15. Hyrule Warriors

Okay, so Hyrule Warriors. This one’s a bit of a departure from your typical Zelda fare. Instead of exploring and solving puzzles, you’re mostly just… well, smashing through hordes of enemies. It’s a collaboration between Nintendo and Koei Tecmo, the folks behind the Dynasty Warriors games.

The core idea is taking the familiar Zelda characters and world and dropping them into a massive, button-mashing combat scenario. You’ll play as Link, Zelda, and a bunch of other characters you know, all wielding their signature weapons against armies of Bokoblins, Moblins, and other baddies. It’s definitely a different vibe, and some folks really dig that.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:

Gameplay Style: Think hack-and-slash, but with a Zelda skin. You’ll be using combos and special moves to clear out battlefields.
Character Roster: A surprisingly large cast of characters from across the Zelda series makes an appearance, each with their own unique fighting style.
Story: It’s a bit of a side story, not really fitting into the main Zelda timeline. Ganon is up to no good, and you’ve got to stop him, naturally.

It’s a fun diversion if you’re looking for something more action-packed than the usual Zelda adventure. It might not be for everyone, especially if you prefer the puzzle-solving and exploration, but it offers a solid dose of button-mashing fun with your favorite Hyrule heroes.

16. LEGO City Undercover

Remember when everyone was saying someone should make a Lego version of Grand Theft Auto? Well, TT Fusion actually did it, and it turned out to be a pretty great time. LEGO City Undercover drops you into a huge, blocky city as Chase McCain, an undercover cop. It’s got all the charm you’d expect from a Lego game, but instead of just smashing bricks, you’re solving crimes and chasing down bad guys. The sheer amount of stuff to do in this open world is staggering.

What really makes this game stand out is the variety. Chase can change into different outfits, and each one gives him new abilities. Want to fly around? Put on the astronaut suit. Need to put out some fires? The firefighter gear is your go-to. It adds a fun layer to exploring the city and tackling missions. While it’s a shame there’s no co-op mode, there’s so much content packed in that you might not even miss it. You can spend hours just finding all the collectibles or messing around with the different vehicles. It’s a fantastic open-world adventure that’s perfect for anyone looking for a fun, family-friendly crime-solving experience. If you’re curious about how it holds up, you can check out this Lego City Undercover review for more details.

17. Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE

Okay, so imagine this: you’ve got a bunch of aspiring J-pop idols, right? But instead of just singing and dancing, they’re also fighting off evil spirits from another dimension. Sounds wild, I know, but that’s the basic idea behind Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE. It’s a game that really shouldn’t work, blending the stylish, turn-based combat of the Shin Megami Tensei series with the character-driven, sometimes cheesy, world of Fire Emblem, all wrapped up in a vibrant idol culture package. It’s a JRPG that’s unafraid to be completely over-the-top and incredibly fun.

The combat system is where this game really shines. It’s all about exploiting enemy weaknesses, chaining together attacks, and using special ‘Sessions’ where your whole party jumps in for extra damage. It feels really satisfying when you pull off a big combo. Plus, the characters themselves are pretty likable, and their interactions add a lot of charm.

Here’s a quick look at what makes the combat tick:

Exploit Weaknesses: Hitting an enemy’s weak point triggers a ‘Side Battle’.
Chain Sessions: Successfully hitting a weak point allows other party members to attack, leading to a ‘Session’.
Special Attacks: Use powerful ‘Bloom Skills’ and unique ‘Radiant Skills’ for devastating effects.
Costume Changes: Different costumes can unlock new skills and abilities, adding a layer of strategy.

While the Switch version, Encore, is readily available, the original Wii U release was a standout title for the console. It’s a game that doesn’t take itself too seriously, with bright visuals and catchy music that make the whole experience a blast. If you’re looking for a JRPG that’s a bit different and doesn’t shy away from its unique premise, this is definitely one to check out. You can find more about its unique blend of genres on its wiki page.

18. Shantae And The Pirate’s Curse

Shantae and the Pirate’s Curse is a real gem on the Wii U eShop, and honestly, it holds up incredibly well. Developed by WayForward, this game is a fantastic 2D platformer that really shines. You play as Shantae, a half-genie who has to stop a pirate curse from destroying her home. It’s got that classic Metroidvania feel, where you explore a world, gain new abilities, and backtrack to find secrets.

The pixel art is absolutely gorgeous, especially when viewed on a big screen. The animations are smooth, and the character designs are full of personality. It’s one of those games where the visuals just make you happy to look at them. The gameplay itself is tight and responsive, making the platforming feel really satisfying. You’ll be jumping, whipping, and using magic to take down enemies and bosses.

Here’s a quick look at what makes it so good:

Engaging Exploration: The world is designed with plenty of hidden paths and secrets to uncover, encouraging you to really explore every nook and cranny.
Satisfying Combat: Shantae’s hair whip is a joy to use, and as you gain new transformations and abilities, combat becomes even more dynamic.
Charming Story and Characters: The narrative is fun, with a good dose of humor and memorable characters, including the pirate villains who are surprisingly likable.

While it might not be the newest game on the block, Shantae and the Pirate’s Curse offers a polished and enjoyable experience that’s definitely worth picking up if you’re a fan of platformers or just looking for a high-quality indie title on your Wii U.

19. SteamWorld Dig

Man, digging games can be surprisingly addictive, right? SteamWorld Dig is one of those titles that just pulls you in. You play as a little robot miner who descends into a procedurally generated world, breaking blocks, collecting ore, and generally just trying to make a living underground. It sounds simple, and it is, but that’s part of its charm.

The core loop of exploring, upgrading your gear, and then heading back down to dig even deeper is incredibly satisfying. You’re constantly managing your limited inventory and fuel for your lantern, which adds a nice layer of strategy. It’s not just about mindless digging; you have to think about your path and what resources you need.

Here’s a quick rundown of what makes it tick:

Exploration: Each descent into the mines is a new adventure, with different resources and hidden secrets to uncover.
Upgrades: Use the precious ores you find to buy better tools, a bigger backpack, or improved digging capabilities.
Combat: You’ll run into some hostile creatures down there, so be ready to defend yourself!

It’s one of those games that’s easy to pick up but offers a good amount of depth. You can easily lose hours just trying to find that one rare gem or clear out a particularly tricky section of the mine. Even though it’s been out for a while, the gameplay holds up really well.

20. FAST Racing NEO

If you’re looking for a racing game that really pushes the Wii U’s hardware, FAST Racing NEO is a solid pick. Developed by Shin’en Multimedia, this futuristic racer throws you into high-speed tracks with a fantastic sense of momentum. The visuals are surprisingly sharp and colorful, especially for a Wii U eShop title, and the speed effects really make you feel like you’re flying. It’s not just about looks, though; the gameplay is tight and challenging, demanding precise control to master its often tricky courses.

Here’s what makes FAST Racing NEO stand out:

Intense Speed: The game does a great job of conveying a feeling of rapid movement, making each race feel exciting.
Challenging Tracks: Expect to learn the courses well, as shortcuts and optimal racing lines are key to victory.
Futuristic Aesthetic: The clean, vibrant art style and electronic soundtrack create a cool, sci-fi atmosphere.

While it might not have the brand recognition of some other racing games on the system, FAST Racing NEO offers a pure, unadulterated racing experience that’s definitely worth checking out if you enjoy a good challenge.

21. SteamWorld Heist

SteamWorld Heist is a really neat game that takes the turn-based strategy you might expect and mixes it with some slick, skill-based shooting. It’s the kind of game that just pulls you in, and before you know it, hours have just vanished. The Wii U version offers a nice, wide view of the action and sharper graphics, which is always a plus, even if you’ve seen it on other systems. It’s a solid entry in the SteamWorld series, building on what made the previous games so good.

What makes Heist stand out?

Strategic Depth: Planning your moves and lining up shots feels really rewarding.
Unique Setting: A space-faring Western theme is pretty uncommon and works surprisingly well.
Satisfying Combat: Bouncing bullets off walls to hit enemies is just plain fun.

It’s a game that proves you don’t need flashy graphics to be incredibly engaging. The gameplay loop is strong, and the developer, Image & Form, really nailed the balance between strategy and action. If you’re looking for something a bit different on the Wii U that still holds up, this is definitely one to check out.

22. Guacamelee!

Man, Guacamelee! is just a blast. It’s this action-platformer where you play as a luchador who can switch between the land of the living and the dead. Sounds wild, right? The combat feels really good, and the platforming is super tight. You’ll be doing a lot of jumping, punching, and using special moves to get through levels.

What I really liked was how the game mixes up its mechanics. You get new abilities that aren’t just for fighting; they’re also key to solving puzzles and reaching new areas. It makes you want to go back and explore places you’ve already been.

Here’s a quick rundown of what makes it stand out:

Switching dimensions: This isn’t just for show; it’s how you solve puzzles and avoid enemies. Sometimes a platform is only there in one dimension!
Luchador combat: It’s fast, fluid, and has a good variety of moves. You can string together combos and use special attacks.
Exploration: The game encourages you to find secrets and collectibles, which adds a lot of replay value.

Even though the main story isn’t super long, the game packs in a ton of fun. It’s one of those titles that just feels polished and well-made. If you’re into action games with a bit of a puzzle element, you should definitely give Guacamelee! a shot.

23. Child Of Light

Child of Light is a game that really surprised me. It takes a lot of the big ideas you usually find in massive role-playing games and packs them into a package that feels really fresh and manageable. The art style is just gorgeous, like a storybook come to life, and the music really fits the mood perfectly. It’s a beautiful adventure, and even though there are a few little slowdowns here and there, they don’t really take away from the overall experience.

It’s a pretty unique RPG experience on the Wii U, blending turn-based combat with a really engaging story. You play as Aurora, a young princess who wakes up in the magical land of Lemuria. Your goal is to defeat the Queen of the Night and bring back the sun and stars.

Here’s a quick look at what makes it stand out:

A unique combat system: It uses an "Igniculus" system where you can slow down enemies or speed up your allies. It adds a nice strategic layer.
Stunning visuals: The hand-drawn art style is incredibly detailed and colorful, making every screen a treat for the eyes.
Engaging story and characters: The fairy-tale narrative is well-written, and the characters you meet along the way are memorable.

While there are newer versions on other consoles, the Wii U version of Child of Light still holds up as a delightful and charming RPG that’s absolutely worth playing if you missed it the first time around.

24. The Wonderful 101

Okay, so The Wonderful 101. This game is… a lot. And I mean that in both good and maybe a little overwhelming ways. Developed by PlatinumGames, the same folks who brought us Bayonetta, it’s an action game where you control a whole team of superheroes. You’re not just one guy; you’re leading a crowd, and the way you do it is pretty unique. You use the GamePad’s touchscreen to draw shapes, which then makes your heroes form giant weapons like swords or whips. It’s a neat idea, and when it works, it feels pretty cool.

However, drawing those shapes while dodging enemies and trying to keep track of everything can get pretty hectic. It’s definitely not a chill game. You’ve got to be ready for some serious button-mashing and quick thinking. The game throws a ton of stuff at you, and at first, it might feel like too much. But if you stick with it, and maybe pick the right difficulty, you start to see the genius behind it all. The world is full of sass and jokes, which is a nice touch.

Here’s a quick rundown of what makes it stand out:

Unique Drawing Mechanic: Form giant weapons by tracing shapes on the touchscreen.
Massive Superhero Team: Command dozens of heroes at once.
PlatinumGames Action: Expect fast-paced, stylish combat.
Humorous Tone: Packed with sass and puns.

It’s a game that really tries to do its own thing, and for that, it’s worth checking out. It might not be for everyone, but if you’re looking for something different and don’t mind a bit of chaos, The Wonderful 101 could be a blast.

25. New Super Mario Bros. U and more

Alright, let’s talk about New Super Mario Bros. U. This game was a launch title for the Wii U, and it’s basically a return to the classic 2D Mario style we all know and love. You know, Bowser kidnaps Peach, Mario has to save her, the usual story. It’s a solid platformer, no doubt about it. The controls feel good, and the level design is pretty clever, with lots of secrets to find if you’re the type to really explore.

But here’s the thing: it’s also part of the ‘New’ series, which means it plays it pretty safe. If you were expecting some kind of revolutionary Mario experience like Super Mario 64 or Galaxy, you might feel a bit let down. It’s more of a polished version of what came before, rather than something totally new. Still, it’s a really well-made 2D platformer, and for a launch game, it definitely held its own. It’s the kind of game that’s easy to pick up and play, but still offers a decent challenge.

And hey, if you’re looking for more of that classic Mario feel, don’t forget about the New Super Luigi U add-on. It’s basically more of the same, but with Luigi in the lead and some trickier levels. It’s a good way to get more mileage out of the game if you enjoyed the core experience. It’s a shame it didn’t push boundaries more, but what it does, it does really well. It’s a good, reliable Mario game that still holds up.

Still Worth Playing

So, even though the Wii U had its rough patches and many of its best games eventually made their way to the Switch, it’s clear the console left behind a solid collection of games. Whether you’re looking to revisit some classics or discover hidden gems you might have missed the first time around, these titles still hold up. It just goes to show that a good game is a good game, no matter the hardware. If you’ve still got a Wii U gathering dust, now might be the perfect time to fire it up and see what all the fuss was about.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are Wii U games still worth playing in 2025?

Even though the Wii U is an older console, many of its games are still super fun and look great! Some of these games were so good, they even got new versions on the Nintendo Switch. But playing them on the original Wii U gives you a special experience, especially with games that used the GamePad controller in cool ways.

Are there any Wii U games that you can’t play anywhere else?

Yes, there are a few games that were made just for the Wii U and haven’t been released on other systems. These are often games that really used the unique features of the Wii U, like its special controller. Finding these gems can be a real treat for collectors and fans!

Which Wii U games are the most popular?

Some of the most loved Wii U games include big Nintendo titles like ‘The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild,’ ‘Mario Kart 8,’ and ‘Super Mario 3D World.’ Games like ‘Splatoon’ also introduced brand new fun experiences that people still talk about today.

Can the Wii U play games from older Nintendo consoles?

The Wii U is backward compatible, which means it can play most Wii games. You can even use your old Wii controllers with it! However, it cannot play GameCube games directly, though some Wii games that were originally on GameCube might be playable.

How many games were released for the Wii U?

During its time, the Wii U had quite a few games released for it. While the total number is in the hundreds, only a portion of those were physical disc releases. Many smaller indie games were also available digitally.

Are Wii U games hard to find now?

Finding Wii U games can take a little effort. You might need to look in used game stores, online marketplaces, or check with collectors. Some popular titles are easier to find than others, but it’s definitely possible to build a great collection!

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