As a lifelong Nintendo fan, I’ve spent countless hours exploring the vast library of Virtual Console games on the Wii U. This digital platform offers an incredible selection of classic titles from various retro consoles, bringing nostalgia right to your fingertips.
The Wii U’s Virtual Console stands out by providing enhanced features like save states, customizable controls, and the ability to play games on the GamePad. From legendary NES classics to beloved SNES hits and even rare N64 gems, there’s something for every retro gaming enthusiast. I’ll help you discover the absolute must-play titles that deserve a spot in your digital collection.
Key Takeaways
- The Wii U Virtual Console offers classic games from 8 different platforms, including NES, SNES, N64, GBA, and DS, with prices ranging from $4.99 to $11.99
- Modern enhancements include save states, customizable controls, off-TV play on the GamePad, and improved visual quality through HDMI output
- Must-play titles include Super Mario Bros. 3, Super Metroid, Super Mario 64, and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, all featuring enhanced graphics and gameplay features
- The platform supports cross-compatibility with previously purchased Wii Virtual Console games, though an upgrade fee applies for Wii U features
- Games can be easily purchased and downloaded through the Wii U eShop, with instant delivery and comprehensive digital manuals included
Best Virtual Console Games Wii U
The Wii U Virtual Console is Nintendo’s digital platform that offers emulated versions of classic games from previous gaming systems. The service features a comprehensive library of titles from 8 legacy platforms: NES, Super NES, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS, N64, TurboGrafx-16, MSX, and Sega Genesis.
Each Virtual Console game includes modern enhancements:
- Save states for instant game progress storage
- Customizable button mapping for personalized controls
- Miiverse integration for community interaction
- Off-TV play on the Wii U GamePad
- Digital manuals with original game instructions
The pricing structure varies by console:
| System | Price Range |
|---|---|
| NES | $4.99 – $5.99 |
| SNES | $7.99 – $8.99 |
| N64 | $9.99 – $11.99 |
| GBA | $6.99 – $7.99 |
| DS | $7.99 – $9.99 |
I’ve found the visual quality superior to original hardware when playing through HDMI, with games displaying in their native resolution on both the TV screen and GamePad. The Virtual Console maintains authentic gameplay experiences while eliminating common issues like cartridge battery failures or hardware degradation.
The platform supports cross-compatibility with previously purchased Wii Virtual Console games through system transfer, though an upgrade fee applies for enhanced Wii U features. Games received regular weekly releases throughout the console’s active period, creating an extensive digital library of retro classics.
NES Best Virtual Console Games Wii U
The Nintendo Entertainment System’s legendary library shines on the Wii U Virtual Console with enhanced features like save states customizable controls. I’ve identified these iconic NES titles as essential additions to any Virtual Console collection.
Super Mario Bros. 3
Super Mario Bros. 3 revolutionized platforming with its inventive power-ups like the Tanooki Suit Frog Suit P-Wing. The game features 8 distinct worlds 90+ levels filled with secrets branching paths. On the Wii U Virtual Console, the crisp 8-bit graphics display perfectly through HDMI while maintaining the original’s precise controls responsive gameplay.
The Legend of Zelda
The Legend of Zelda established the foundation for action-adventure games with its non-linear exploration combat-focused gameplay. The game contains 9 dungeons 128 map screens packed with hidden caves items secrets. I appreciate how the Wii U Virtual Console’s save state feature eliminates the need for lengthy passwords, making this challenging classic more accessible while preserving its authentic difficulty.
| Feature | Original NES | Wii U Virtual Console |
|---|---|---|
| Display Resolution | 256×240 | 1080p Upscaled |
| Save System | Password/Battery | Save States + Original |
| Controller Options | NES Gamepad | Multiple Controllers |
| Price | $49.99 (1986) | $4.99 |
Must-Play SNES Best Virtual Console Games Wii U
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System hosts some of gaming’s most influential titles on the Wii U Virtual Console. These 16-bit classics showcase remarkable gameplay mechanics enhanced by the Virtual Console’s modern features.
Super Metroid
Super Metroid’s atmospheric sci-fi adventure delivers an unmatched exploration experience on the Virtual Console. The game’s intricate level design encourages backtracking with newly acquired abilities like the Morph Ball Bomb Rolling technique for accessing hidden paths. I appreciate how the Wii U GamePad’s screen displays the detailed map interface while maintaining the action on the TV. The save state feature proves invaluable during challenging boss encounters against iconic enemies like Ridley Mother Brain.
EarthBound
EarthBound’s quirky RPG adventure brings its distinctive charm to the Wii U Virtual Console platform. The game’s modern-day setting stands out with locations like Onett Twoson featuring unique enemies such as New Age Retro Hippies Starmen. I find the Virtual Console’s customizable controls particularly useful for managing the turn-based combat system inventory management. The digital manual includes comprehensive strategy guides monster descriptions previously exclusive to the original physical release.
Top N64 Games Available
The Nintendo 64 titles on Wii U Virtual Console showcase enhanced visual clarity through HDMI output while maintaining authentic gameplay mechanics. These classic games benefit from customizable controls perfect for the Wii U GamePad.
Super Mario 64
Super Mario 64 revolutionized 3D platforming with 120 Power Stars scattered across Princess Peach’s castle. The game’s analog stick controls translate seamlessly to the Wii U GamePad, offering precise movement through varied environments. Save states eliminate frustration during challenging sequences like the 100-coin missions or Bowser’s obstacle courses.
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Ocarina of Time’s timeless adventure gains new accessibility through the Wii U Virtual Console’s features. The GamePad displays inventory management seamlessly while the enhanced 480p resolution clarifies visual details in dungeons. The save state function proves invaluable during Master Quest challenges such as:
- Water Temple navigation
- Iron Boots equipment switching
- Boss battles with Dark Link
- Timed sequences in the Spirit Temple
| Feature | Original N64 | Wii U VC |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 240p | 480p |
| Input Lag | Variable | Minimal |
| Load Times | 2-3 seconds | Instant |
| Save Options | Fixed Points | Anywhere |
Essential Game Boy Advance Classics
The Game Boy Advance library on Wii U Virtual Console features pristine emulation of handheld classics in HD resolution. I’ve identified two standout strategy and RPG titles that showcase the platform’s technical capabilities with enhanced visuals on the GamePad display.
Advance Wars
Intelligent Systems’ turn-based military strategy game delivers deep tactical gameplay across 30+ campaign missions. The Wii U version displays the detailed sprite animations in sharp clarity while maintaining the original’s pixel-perfect grid movement. The GamePad acts as a natural fit for unit selection & deployment, plus save states help during challenging multi-stage battles.
Key features:
- 18 commanding officers with unique abilities
- 4-player multiplayer maps via local play
- Map creation tools for custom scenarios
- Tutorial mode for learning core mechanics
- 115+ hours of strategic combat content
Golden Sun
Camelot’s masterful RPG combines vibrant visuals with an innovative magic system called Psynergy. The Wii U enhances the game’s colorful world with crisp sprites and smooth animations displayed on both TV and GamePad. The portable nature translates perfectly to off-TV play sessions.
- 30+ hour story campaign
- Unique Djinn creature collection system
- Mind-bending environmental puzzles
- 4-member party customization
- Cross-save compatibility with Golden Sun: The Lost Age
| Game Stats | Advance Wars | Golden Sun |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2001 | 2001 |
| Genre | Strategy | RPG |
| Campaign Length | 35+ hours | 30+ hours |
| Total Units/Characters | 18 COs, 15+ unit types | 8 playable characters |
| Metacritic Score | 92/100 | 91/100 |
DS Games Worth Downloading
The Nintendo DS library on Wii U Virtual Console offers enhanced touchscreen functionality through the GamePad’s dual-screen design. These DS titles maintain their original charm while adding modern conveniences like customizable controls and save states.
Mario Kart DS
Mario Kart DS delivers intense racing action with 32 tracks featuring both new circuits and retro favorites from previous titles. The GamePad’s bottom screen displays the track map while maintaining the top screen’s racing view, replicating the original DS experience perfectly. The game includes 12 playable characters with unique karts plus Mission Mode’s 50 unique challenges.
Kirby Canvas Curse
Kirby Canvas Curse transforms the traditional platforming formula by using the stylus to guide Kirby through vibrant, painterly worlds. The GamePad’s touch screen creates rainbow paths for movement plus defeats enemies by tapping them. The game features 8 distinct worlds with 40+ stages containing hidden medals plus unique boss battles requiring precise stylus control.
| Game Feature | Mario Kart DS | Kirby Canvas Curse |
|---|---|---|
| Release Price | $9.99 | $9.99 |
| Total Levels | 32 tracks | 40+ stages |
| Playable Characters | 12 | 1 |
| Control Method | Traditional + Touch | Touch Only |
| Bonus Modes | Mission Mode | Medal Collection |
Hidden Gems On Virtual Console
I’ve discovered several underappreciated titles on the Wii U Virtual Console that deserve recognition. These games offer unique experiences beyond the well-known classics.
TurboGrafx-16 Treasures
Military Madness stands out as a compelling turn-based strategy game with 32 challenging missions. The GamePad’s touch controls enhance unit movement across hex-based maps filled with lunar terrain.
Gate of Thunder delivers intense horizontal shooting action with a memorable rock soundtrack. The game features 7 stages packed with detailed sprites plus 3 selectable spacecraft with unique weapon configurations.
Genesis Deep Cuts
Gunstar Heroes showcases Treasure’s signature gameplay mechanics with 4 weapon types that combine into 14 distinct attacks. The local co-op mode benefits from the Virtual Console’s customizable control schemes.
Beyond Oasis blends action-adventure elements with Middle Eastern aesthetics across 15 distinct areas. The protagonist’s magical bracelet summons 4 elemental spirits: Water Djinn Dytto Fire Spirit Efreet Earth Spirit Shade Lightning Spirit Bow.
MSX Hidden Classics
Metal Gear introduced stealth mechanics that influenced future games in the series. The Virtual Console version includes quality-of-life improvements like save states that help navigate the complex military base.
Vampire Killer offers an alternate take on Castlevania with unique RPG elements. The game features 8 stages filled with equipment shops inventory management systems enhanced combat mechanics.
| Game Title | Original Price | Virtual Console Price |
|---|---|---|
| Military Madness | $49.99 | $5.99 |
| Gate of Thunder | $59.99 | $6.99 |
| Gunstar Heroes | $54.99 | $7.99 |
| Beyond Oasis | $59.99 | $7.99 |
| Metal Gear | $39.99 | $5.99 |
| Vampire Killer | $44.99 | $5.99 |
How To Purchase And Download Virtual Console Games
The Wii U eShop provides a straightforward process for purchasing Virtual Console games. I’ve outlined the essential steps to access these classic titles:
- Access the eShop
- Power on your Wii U console
- Select the Nintendo eShop icon from the main menu
- Connect to the internet via Wi-Fi or LAN adapter
- Navigate to Virtual Console
- Select “”Virtual Console”” from the eShop categories
- Browse games by platform (NES, SNES, N64, etc.)
- Use search function to find specific titles
- Purchase Options
| Payment Method | Processing Time |
|—————-|—————–|
| Credit Card | Immediate |
| eShop Card | Immediate |
| PayPal | Immediate | -
Download Management
- Select “”Download Now”” after purchase
- Monitor progress in Download Management
- Access downloaded games from Wii U Menu
- Storage Considerations
| Console Type | Average File Size |
|————–|——————-|
| NES Games | 30-60 MB |
| SNES Games | 50-100 MB |
| N64 Games | 100-200 MB |
- Launch game from Wii U Menu
- Configure controller settings
- Access digital manual through Home Menu
- Create save states from in-game menu
The eShop accepts purchases 24/7 with instant game delivery. Each Virtual Console game includes detailed information about file size requirements prior to purchase.
Future of Console Gaming
I’ve shared my extensive experience with the Wii U Virtual Console and its impressive library of best virtual console games wii u. From legendary Nintendo titles to hidden gems the service offers incredible value for both nostalgic gamers and newcomers to these timeless games.
The combination of modern features like save states customizable controls and off-TV play makes these classics more accessible than ever. The enhanced visual quality through HDMI and the convenience of digital distribution have made the Wii U Virtual Console an essential platform for experiencing gaming history.
Whether you’re revisiting childhood favorites or discovering these games for the first time I’m confident you’ll find something special in this digital treasure trove of gaming excellence.
