Despite being overshadowed by the Nintendo Switch, the Wii U continues to be a beloved console among dedicated gamers in 2025. Its unique dual-screen gameplay, backward compatibility with Wii titles, and an impressive lineup of exclusive games make it a standout system even years after its discontinuation. Whether you’re looking for thrilling platformers, epic RPGs, or engaging multiplayer battles, the Wii U still offers an unforgettable gaming experience. Many of its top titles have aged gracefully, retaining their charm and appeal for both nostalgic players and newcomers discovering them for the first time.
From legendary Nintendo franchises like The Legend of Zelda, Super Mario, and Super Smash Bros. to hidden gems that deserve more recognition, the Wii U’s library is packed with quality games. Whether you prefer solo adventures or competitive gameplay with friends, the system delivers something for everyone. In 2025, revisiting the best Wii U games is not just a trip down memory lane—it’s a reminder of the console’s innovative spirit and the timeless fun its games continue to provide.
Top Wii U Games in 2025
Even in 2025, the Wii U remains a treasure trove of incredible games that continue to offer immersive experiences for players. While the console may not have reached the heights of its successors, its library of exclusive titles and unique gameplay mechanics make it a standout system worth revisiting. From action-packed platformers and thrilling RPGs to competitive multiplayer games, the Wii U’s best titles have stood the test of time. Games like Super Mario 3D World, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD, and Pikmin 3 still provide hours of engaging entertainment for both solo and multiplayer experiences.
One of the biggest strengths of the Wii U is its ability to deliver some of Nintendo’s most iconic franchises in high-definition for the first time. The console introduced gamers to Splatoon, a fresh and fast-paced multiplayer shooter that remains popular even today. Mario Kart 8, which eventually found success on the Switch, still offers some of the best racing gameplay on the Wii U. Super Smash Bros. for Wii U continues to be a fan-favorite fighting game with an extensive roster and competitive depth. These top-tier titles ensure that the Wii U remains a relevant and exciting console for those looking to experience some of Nintendo’s finest work.
For gamers who appreciate variety, the Wii U also boasts several hidden gems that deserve recognition. Games like Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE, Xenoblade Chronicles X, and Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze showcase the system’s diverse offerings. Whether you enjoy intense RPG battles, strategic platforming, or innovative gameplay mechanics, the Wii U’s top games still deliver memorable experiences. Even in 2025, these titles prove that the Wii U is far from forgotten, offering players countless hours of fun across a wide range of genres.
The Timeless Appeal of Wii U Games
The Wii U may not have been Nintendo’s most successful console, but its game library remains a strong reason why gamers continue to revisit it in 2025. With a mix of iconic first-party titles, engaging multiplayer experiences, and unique gameplay innovations, the console still holds a special place in gaming history. Many of its best games have aged well, making them enjoyable even years after their original release. Whether you love action, platforming, or RPGs, the Wii U has something for every type of gamer.
Super Mario 3D World – A Must-Play Classic
One of the standout games on the Wii U, Super Mario 3D World, delivers a perfect blend of 2D and 3D platforming action. With its vibrant worlds, creative level design, and fun multiplayer mode, it remains a top pick for gamers in 2025. The game’s power-ups, including the Cat Suit, add a fresh twist to Mario’s adventures, keeping gameplay exciting. Whether you’re playing solo or with friends, the game offers hours of challenging yet rewarding fun. Even today, it stands as one of the best Mario titles ever made.
The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD
This HD remaster of the GameCube classic brings The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker to life with improved graphics and enhanced gameplay. Set in a vast oceanic world, players embark on an unforgettable journey filled with dungeons, puzzles, and thrilling combat. The Wii U version refined the experience with faster sailing and a streamlined inventory system. Even in 2025, its cel-shaded art style and engaging story make it one of the best Zelda games available. Fans of action-adventure games should not miss this masterpiece.
Mario Kart 8 – The Ultimate Racing Experience
Few racing games match the sheer fun and excitement of Mario Kart 8, a must-have title for Wii U owners. Featuring an incredible roster of characters, anti-gravity tracks, and smooth online multiplayer, this game continues to be a favorite in 2025. The dynamic courses, power-ups, and tight controls make it one of the most polished racing games ever created. While the Deluxe version exists on the Switch, the original Wii U version remains just as enjoyable. If you love fast-paced, competitive gaming, Mario Kart 8 is still a top choice.
Super Smash Bros. for Wii U – Fighting at Its Best
The Wii U edition of Super Smash Bros. is one of the most content-rich fighting games in Nintendo history. Featuring a massive roster of characters from various franchises, thrilling battles, and diverse game modes, it remains a competitive favorite. The game’s smooth mechanics and well-balanced gameplay make it ideal for both casual and hardcore players. With support for up to eight fighters in multiplayer, it offers endless fun with friends. Even years later, this game proves why the Super Smash Bros. series is legendary.
Splatoon – Nintendo’s Unique Shooter
Nintendo took a bold step into the shooter genre with Splatoon, and it paid off. This colorful, fast-paced, and highly competitive game introduced an exciting new way to play multiplayer shooters. Instead of focusing on eliminating opponents, players cover the map in ink to secure victory. With its creative mechanics, fun weapons, and strategic team play, Splatoon remains an exciting game in 2025. While the franchise has expanded on newer consoles, the original still offers a unique and thrilling experience for Wii U fans.
Xenoblade Chronicles X – A Massive RPG Adventure
For RPG lovers, Xenoblade Chronicles X is one of the best open-world experiences on the Wii U. With its vast alien landscapes, deep combat mechanics, and intricate story, this game offers hundreds of hours of gameplay. Players explore the massive world of Mira, taking on dangerous creatures, piloting mechs, and uncovering mysteries. The game’s breathtaking visuals and immersive soundtrack make it a must-play in 2025. Despite being underrated, it remains one of the most ambitious titles ever released on the Wii U.
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze – A Challenging Gem
If you’re looking for a tough yet rewarding platformer, Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is the perfect choice. Featuring beautifully designed levels, tight platforming mechanics, and a fantastic soundtrack, this game is one of the best in the genre. Each level presents new challenges, keeping the gameplay fresh and engaging. While it received a Switch port, the Wii U version is still an excellent way to experience this masterpiece. For fans of classic platforming action, it remains an essential title in 2025.
Why Wii U Games Are Still Popular in 2025
Even in 2025, Wii U games continue to hold their charm due to their exclusive titles, unique gameplay mechanics, and nostalgic appeal. Many of Nintendo’s biggest franchises, such as Super Mario, Zelda, and Super Smash Bros., had standout entries on the Wii U that remain highly enjoyable today. The console’s dual-screen functionality with the GamePad offers a distinctive experience that hasn’t been fully replicated on newer hardware.
Additionally, the strong local multiplayer support in Wii U games makes them perfect for couch co-op sessions, a feature that has become rare in modern gaming. While some of its best titles have been ported to the Nintendo Switch, the original Wii U versions still offer classic gameplay, exclusive content, and a nostalgic feel that fans continue to appreciate. For those who love Nintendo’s signature creativity and innovation, the Wii U remains a treasured console in 2025.
Best Action and Adventure Wii U Games
The Wii U boasts an impressive lineup of action and adventure games, offering thrilling gameplay, immersive worlds, and unforgettable stories. From epic quests to fast-paced action, these games provide a mix of exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving that keeps players engaged for hours.
Some of the standout titles include The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD, a beautifully remastered classic with enhanced visuals and smoother gameplay. Bayonetta 2 delivers intense hack-and-slash combat, making it one of the best action games on the platform. Xenoblade Chronicles X, a massive open-world RPG, combines deep storytelling with strategic combat. Whether you enjoy epic adventures, fast-paced fights, or immersive narratives, the Wii U offers some of the best action and adventure experiences even in 2025.
The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD
This remastered classic brings visually stunning HD graphics, refined gameplay mechanics, and an enhanced sailing system, making it the ultimate version of this beloved Zelda adventure. Players take on the role of Link as he explores vast oceanic landscapes, battles fearsome enemies, and solves intricate puzzles to save Princess Zelda and defeat the evil Ganondorf. The game’s cel-shaded art style and emotional storyline make it a timeless masterpiece that remains highly engaging in 2025.
Bayonetta 2
One of the best hack-and-slash games ever made, Bayonetta 2 delivers insanely fast-paced action, fluid combat mechanics, and jaw-dropping cinematic battles. Players control Bayonetta, a powerful witch armed with magical abilities and stylish moves, as she takes on massive enemies, battles through dynamic set pieces, and unleashes powerful combos. The game’s deep combat system, smooth controls, and over-the-top spectacle make it a must-play title that continues to impress even years after its release.
Xenoblade Chronicles X
This massive open-world RPG offers a truly breathtaking experience with one of the largest and most detailed game worlds ever created on the Wii U. Players step into the shoes of a customized protagonist exploring the alien planet Mira, piloting giant mechs called Skells, and engaging in real-time strategic combat against towering enemies. With hundreds of hours of gameplay, a deep progression system, and an awe-inspiring sci-fi narrative, Xenoblade Chronicles X remains a defining RPG experience that still captivates players in 2025.
Batman: Arkham City – Armored Edition
This enhanced version of the critically acclaimed Arkham City brings deeper combat mechanics, unique Wii U GamePad features, and an immersive open-world Gotham City experience. Players take on the role of Batman as he faces off against legendary villains such as Joker, Two-Face, and the Riddler, utilizing a mix of stealth, detective work, and hand-to-hand combat. The GamePad’s innovative integration for scanning environments and managing gadgets adds an exclusive layer of depth, making it one of the best action-adventure titles on the console.
Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag
Set in the Golden Age of Piracy, this game delivers a massive open world filled with naval battles, stealth assassinations, and intense sword fights, making it one of the most expansive Assassin’s Creed experiences ever. Players step into the boots of Edward Kenway, a pirate-turned-assassin, as he commands his own ship, the Jackdaw, explores lush Caribbean islands, and engages in brutal combat against both Templars and rival pirates. With its blend of historical fiction, dynamic gameplay, and vast exploration, Black Flag remains a top-tier adventure game that’s still exciting to play in 2025.
Darksiders II
A dark and action-packed adventure, Darksiders II follows Death, one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, as he embarks on a quest to redeem his brother War and restore humanity. The game offers a mix of fast-paced combat, deep RPG mechanics, and massive open-world exploration, making it one of the most immersive action-adventure experiences on the Wii U. With challenging dungeons, intricate puzzles, and an engaging loot-based progression system, Darksiders II still stands out as a brilliant blend of action, adventure, and storytelling that players continue to enjoy in 2025.
Comparison of Action and Adventure Games
| Game | Open World | Story Depth | Combat System |
| The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild | Yes | High | Advanced |
| Bayonetta 2 | No | Medium | Fast-Paced |
| Xenoblade Chronicles X | Yes | High | Complex |
Best Multiplayer Wii U Games in 2025
The Wii U remains a fantastic console for multiplayer gaming, offering a mix of local co-op, competitive battles, and online experiences. Its unique GamePad integration and fun gameplay mechanics make it a great choice for friends and family. Even in 2025, several Wii U games continue to deliver thrilling multiplayer action, keeping players engaged in exciting matches and cooperative adventures. Whether you enjoy party games, racing, or intense battles, the Wii U multiplayer library has something for everyone.
One of the most iconic multiplayer titles is Super Smash Bros. for Wii U, a fast-paced fighting game featuring a massive roster of Nintendo characters. Players can engage in intense 8-player battles, customize their fighters, and compete online. Another fan-favorite is Mario Kart 8, which offers chaotic, action-packed racing with stunning visuals, creative tracks, and exhilarating online and split-screen modes. Splatoon, Nintendo’s unique team-based shooter, remains popular due to its colorful ink-based combat, strategy-driven gameplay, and competitive online battles.
For fans of cooperative multiplayer, New Super Mario Bros. U provides hilarious and challenging platforming fun, where up to four players can team up or compete to reach the goal. Nintendo Land, a collection of interactive mini-games, utilizes the GamePad for asymmetric multiplayer, making it a perfect party experience. Meanwhile, Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate offers a deep multiplayer adventure, where players can team up to hunt massive creatures, craft powerful gear, and engage in strategic battles. These multiplayer masterpieces ensure that Wii U gaming stays fun and exciting in 2025, making it a great console for social gaming
Multiplayer Game Features Comparison
| Game | Local Multiplayer | Online Multiplayer | Co-op Mode |
| Mario Kart 8 | Yes | Yes | No |
| Super Smash Bros. for Wii U | Yes | Yes | No |
| Splatoon | No | Yes | Yes |
Best Wii U Platformer Games in 2025
Super Mario 3D World is a masterpiece that combines the best elements of 2D and 3D Mario gameplay, creating a fun and engaging platforming experience. Players can choose from Mario, Luigi, Peach, or Toad, each with unique abilities, and team up in four-player cooperative mode for thrilling multiplayer action. The game features creative level designs, power-ups like the Super Bell (which turns characters into cats), and hidden secrets, making it a must-play for all platforming fans.
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze – A Challenging and Beautiful Adventure
This stunning side-scrolling platformer takes players on an intense journey through vibrant, beautifully animated worlds filled with challenging obstacles, dynamic enemies, and thrilling boss fights. Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is known for its tight controls, creative level designs, and engaging co-op gameplay, where players can control Donkey Kong, Diddy Kong, Dixie Kong, and Cranky Kong, each with unique abilities. The game offers hardcore platforming action, making it a must-play for players looking for a challenge.
New Super Mario Bros. U – Classic Side-Scrolling Action with a Modern Twist
Bringing back the beloved side-scrolling Mario formula, New Super Mario Bros. U delivers fast-paced platforming, precise controls, and a variety of creative power-ups. Players can enjoy multiplayer co-op with up to four players, making it a fantastic game for friends and family. With hidden secrets, a massive world map, and additional content like “New Super Luigi U”, this game keeps the classic Mario experience alive while introducing fresh challenges for modern players.
Why You Should Play Wii U Games in 2025
Playing Wii U games in 2025 is a fantastic choice for gamers who appreciate quality gameplay and nostalgia. Despite being discontinued, the Wii U still offers an incredible library of exclusive titles such as Super Mario 3D World, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD, and Bayonetta 2, which remain highly regarded. The system’s GamePad adds a unique dual-screen experience, making gameplay more immersive and interactive than traditional consoles.
Additionally, the Wii U supports backward compatibility with Wii titles, allowing players to enjoy a vast selection of classic games without needing a separate console. This feature makes it a cost-effective and convenient option for those who love older Nintendo games. As digital storefronts phase out, owning physical copies of these games ensures long-term accessibility, making the Wii U a valuable system for collectors and gaming enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
The Wii U may have been overshadowed by its successor, the Nintendo Switch, but its legacy remains strong in 2025. With a diverse library of exclusive games, including Super Mario Maker, Pikmin 3, and Xenoblade Chronicles X, the console still offers experiences that are unavailable on any other platform. The unique GamePad controller, with its second screen functionality, enhances gameplay in ways that modern consoles haven’t replicated. As digital storefronts for older systems gradually shut down, physical copies of Wii U games are becoming collector’s items, further solidifying the system’s value.
For those who enjoy retro gaming, the Wii U serves as a gateway to both the Wii and Virtual Console titles, allowing players to access a vast catalog of classic Nintendo games. Its compatibility with Wii controllers and accessories makes it a budget-friendly option for gamers who want to revisit their favorite titles without investing in additional hardware. Even as newer gaming systems dominate the market, the Wii U continues to provide hours of entertainment, proving that great games never lose their charm.
the Wii U remains a worthwhile console for gamers in 2025, whether they’re discovering its library for the first time or revisiting beloved classics. With unique gameplay mechanics, an impressive selection of games, and strong nostalgic value, the Wii U continues to hold a special place in the hearts of Nintendo fans. If you’re looking for a console that blends innovation with timeless fun, the Wii U is still a great choice.
FAQs
Can I still buy Wii U games in 2025?
Yes, you can still purchase Wii U games through various sources, including online retailers, second-hand stores, and auction sites like eBay. Many gaming shops that specialize in retro consoles may also have stock, including physical copies of rare titles. Additionally, some digital games may still be available if purchased before the eShop closure. However, prices for certain sought-after games have increased due to their rarity.
Is the Wii U still worth playing in 2025?
Absolutely! The Wii U has a fantastic selection of exclusive games that remain enjoyable even years after the console was discontinued. Titles like Super Mario 3D World, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD, and Splatoon still offer engaging gameplay. Additionally, its backward compatibility with Wii games expands its library significantly. If you enjoy classic Nintendo experiences, the Wii U is still a great choice in 2025.
Are Nintendo Switch games compatible with Wii U games?
Some Wii U games have been ported to the Nintendo Switch, such as Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Pikmin 3 Deluxe, and Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze. However, not all titles have made the transition, meaning many exclusives remain locked to the Wii U. Wii U discs are not compatible with the Switch, as the newer console does not support disc-based games. If you want to experience the full Wii U library, playing on the original console is necessary.
Can I use the Wii U to play Wii games?
Yes, the Wii U is fully backward compatible with Wii games, allowing players to enjoy an extensive library of classic Nintendo titles. You can insert Wii discs into the Wii U and play them just as you would on a Wii console. The system also supports Wii controllers and accessories, making it easy to revisit favorites. This feature makes the Wii U a fantastic option for those who want access to two generations of Nintendo games.
What is the best Wii U multiplayer game?
The Wii U offers a variety of excellent multiplayer games, with Mario Kart 8 and Super Smash Bros. for Wii U being the most popular choices. Mario Kart 8 delivers exciting races with iconic Nintendo characters and diverse tracks, while Super Smash Bros. provides intense battles with a massive roster of fighters. Other great multiplayer games include Nintendo Land for party-style fun and Splatoon for online competitive action.
Where can I find Wii U consoles and accessories in 2025?
You can still find Wii U consoles and accessories through online marketplaces like eBay, Amazon, and gaming reseller websites. Many local retro gaming stores also carry pre-owned Wii U systems, controllers, and other peripherals. However, prices have been rising due to the console’s increasing rarity. If you’re looking for specific accessories, such as the GamePad or Pro Controller, it’s best to buy them soon before they become even harder to find.
What is the rarest Wii U game in 2025?
Some of the rarest Wii U games in 2025 include Devil’s Third, Axiom Verge: Multiverse Edition, and Hello Kitty Kruisers, as they had limited physical releases. Additionally, Game & Wario and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (Wii U version) have become collector’s items. Since Wii U games are no longer being produced, rare titles are increasing in value, making them sought-after by gaming enthusiasts and collectors.