The Nintendo Wii U often gets a bad rap. It sold poorly, had a confusing name, and lacked third-party support. But for those who owned one, the console was a treasure trove of incredible games. Many of its best titles have since been ported to the Nintendo Switch, but the original experiences on the Wii U remain special. From racing masterpieces to sprawling open-world adventures, here are the 10 best Nintendo Wii U games of all time, ranked.
10. Super Mario 3D World
This vibrant platformer brought cooperative chaos to the Mushroom Kingdom. With four playable characters, each with unique abilities, and clever level design that made the most of the GamePad, it's a joy whether solo or with friends. The cat suit power-up alone is worth the price of admission.
9. Splatoon
Nintendo's bold new IP proved the company could still innovate in the shooter genre. Instead of bullets, you splat ink. The turf war mode was addictive, and the quirky style—complete with squid-kid hybrids—made it an instant classic. It laid the groundwork for a franchise that would explode on Switch.
8. Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze
Retro Studios delivered one of the best 2D platformers ever made. With gorgeous visuals, a phenomenal soundtrack, and brutally challenging levels, Tropical Freeze is a must-play. The Wii U version's GamePad features, like blowing on platforms to reveal secrets, added a unique touch.
7. Pikmin 3
This real-time strategy gem is all about multitasking. You command adorable Pikmin to collect fruit, defeat enemies, and solve puzzles. The Wii U GamePad was used brilliantly for map management and directing your squad. It's a relaxing yet deeply strategic experience.
6. Super Smash Bros. for Wii U
The definitive version of the fourth Smash entry. With a massive roster, including third-party icons like Mega Man and Sonic, and 8-player mayhem, it was a celebration of gaming history. The Wii U version also had exclusive stages and modes that made it the go-to for competitive play at the time.
5. Bayonetta 2
PlatinumGames' stylish action sequel is a masterpiece of over-the-top combat. Bayonetta's witch time mechanic, insane set pieces, and a killer soundtrack make this one of the best character action games ever. The Wii U exclusive also included a port of the first Bayonetta, making it a complete package.
4. Xenoblade Chronicles X
Monolith Soft's open-world RPG is a sprawling sci-fi epic. You explore the alien planet Mira in giant mechs called Skells, fight massive creatures, and uncover a deep story. The sheer scale and freedom were unmatched on Wii U, and it remains a cult favorite.
3. Mario Kart 8
The best racing game on the console. Mario Kart 8 introduced anti-gravity sections that let you drive on walls and ceilings, plus a fantastic roster and courses. The DLC added even more content. It's so good that it was re-released on Switch as Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, but the Wii U original still holds up.
2. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Yes, it launched simultaneously on Wii U and Switch, but the Wii U version is no slouch. This open-air adventure redefined the Zelda series. With its physics-based puzzles, vast Hyrule, and freedom to go anywhere, it's a landmark game. The Wii U GamePad served as a handy map and inventory screen.
1. Super Mario Maker
The ultimate creative tool. Super Mario Maker let you design and share your own 2D Mario levels. The Wii U GamePad was perfect for drawing and placing elements. The community created millions of levels, from clever puzzles to brutal challenges. It's the most innovative and replayable game on the system.
These games prove that the Wii U's library was anything but weak. While many have been ported to the Switch, the original versions often have unique features that make them worth revisiting. For more great games, check out The Ultimate Ranking: 25 Best Video Games of All Time and Why These 10 Fantasy Video Games Outshine Hollywood Blockbusters. And if you're a fan of Nintendo's sci-fi side, don't miss Nintendo's Star Fox Is Poised to Be the Next Great Sci-Fi Franchise.
