The Wii U, while innovative, didn't quite hit the mark in terms of sales. However, it was home to some truly fantastic games. Recognizing this, Nintendo has given many of these gems a second chance on their wildly successful Nintendo Switch. This has allowed a broader audience to experience these titles, often with enhanced features and updated graphics. So, what Wii U games have made the jump? Let's dive in, shall we?

A Second Life: Wii U's Best on Switch

Many Wii U titles found a new home and much larger audience on the Nintendo Switch. Nintendo smartly recognized the potential of their Wii U library and understood that the console's limited sales meant many great games were missed by a large portion of gamers. By porting these games to the Switch, they not only gave these titles a second chance but also bolstered the Switch's already impressive lineup. For many players, these ports were their first experience with these amazing games, and the updated visuals and gameplay tweaks made them even more appealing. The success of these ports highlights Nintendo's strategy of revitalizing their older IPs and bringing them to a new generation of players. This approach has proven to be a win-win situation: Nintendo benefits from increased sales, and players get to enjoy enhanced versions of beloved games. It's a testament to the quality of the original Wii U games that they continue to resonate with audiences years later. Moreover, the Switch ports often include all the previously released DLC and additional content, making them the definitive versions of these games. This added value further incentivizes players to pick up these ports, even if they had already played the original versions on the Wii U. In addition to the enhanced visuals and added content, some ports also feature improved control schemes that take advantage of the Switch's unique capabilities. This ensures that the games feel fresh and modern, even though they were originally designed for a different console. All in all, the decision to port Wii U games to the Switch has been a resounding success, and it has played a significant role in the Switch's overall popularity and critical acclaim.

The Complete List of Wii U Ports

Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. Here's a comprehensive list of Wii U games that have been ported to the Nintendo Switch. Keep in mind that some of these are enhanced ports, while others are more straightforward re-releases. Also, I will add a little bit of context around each game!

• Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: This is perhaps the most obvious and successful port. It's not just a straight port; it includes all the original DLC, plus new characters, karts, and a revamped battle mode. It’s the definitive Mario Kart 8 experience and a system-seller for the Switch.

• The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild: While technically a launch title for both Wii U and Switch, Breath of the Wild found its true home on the Switch. The improved performance and portability made it the definitive way to experience this groundbreaking Zelda game.

• Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition: This is the ultimate version of Hyrule Warriors, combining content from the original Wii U game, the 3DS version, and all DLC. If you're a fan of Dynasty Warriors-style gameplay and the Zelda universe, this is a must-have.

• Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze: Originally released on the Wii U, this challenging and beautiful platformer was given a new lease on life on the Switch. It features Funky Kong as a new playable character, making the game slightly easier for newcomers.

• Bayonetta 2: This stylish action game was initially a Wii U exclusive. Its arrival on the Switch was a welcome one, bundled with the original Bayonetta. It introduced a new audience to Bayonetta's over-the-top action.

• Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker: This puzzle-platformer spinoff from Super Mario 3D World was a charming addition to the Wii U library. The Switch version retains its charm and adds new levels based on Super Mario Odyssey.

• Pikmin 3 Deluxe: Pikmin 3 was a visually stunning game on the Wii U, and the Deluxe version on Switch adds co-op play, making it even more enjoyable. It's a great entry point for newcomers to the Pikmin series.

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• Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore: This unique RPG, a crossover between Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem, was a hidden gem on the Wii U. The Encore version on Switch adds new content and refinements.

• Pokkén Tournament DX: This fighting game, featuring Pokémon characters, was a fun but overlooked title on the Wii U. The DX version on Switch includes new Pokémon and game modes.

• New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe: A classic 2D Mario platformer that shines with multiplayer, allowing up to four players to jump in on the fun. With the addition of Nabbit and Toadette as playable characters, you can invite players of any skill level. The game features 164 courses across a variety of worlds, providing lots of content to discover.

• Fatal Frame: Maiden of Black Water: Originally launched on the Wii U, this survival horror makes a comeback! Using the Joy-Cons as the Camera Obscura, this game is a spooky thrill that will have you on the edge of your seat.

Why the Ports Matter

So, why is it important that these games were ported? Well, several reasons! For starters, the Wii U's install base was significantly smaller than the Switch's. This meant that many amazing games were simply missed by a large audience. Porting these titles gave them a second chance to shine and reach a wider audience.

Secondly, many of these ports came with enhancements. Whether it was improved graphics, new content, or gameplay tweaks, these weren't just straight re-releases. They offered something new, even for those who had played the originals on the Wii U.

Finally, it showed Nintendo's commitment to their games. Instead of letting these titles fade into obscurity, they invested in bringing them to their new platform, ensuring that they would be enjoyed for years to come.

Are There More to Come?

The million-dollar question! While Nintendo hasn't officially announced any further Wii U ports, there are still a few titles that fans are hoping to see on the Switch. Games like Xenoblade Chronicles X and Super Mario 3D World are often mentioned as potential candidates. Whether or not they'll actually happen remains to be seen, but given Nintendo's track record, it's certainly possible. Only time will tell if we see more Wii U games make their way to the Switch. However, the success of the previous ports suggests that Nintendo is open to the idea, especially if there is enough demand from fans. In the meantime, we can continue to enjoy the already impressive library of Wii U games that have found a new home on the Switch.

Final Thoughts

The decision to port Wii U games to the Nintendo Switch was a brilliant one. It gave a second life to some truly fantastic games, allowed a wider audience to experience them, and bolstered the Switch's already impressive library. If you missed out on the Wii U, now's your chance to catch up on some amazing titles. So, go forth and game on, my friends!