Wii U - News
March2017
Random You Can Use Cuccos To Beat Tough Enemies In Zelda: Breath Of The Wild
Playing chicken
One of the most amazing things about The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is that it has many mechanics which can impact things in the game; systems working against systems which lend the title an uncanny sense of realism. One player has found a rather interesting way of playing the game against itself, and it all revolves around...
Guide Zelda: Breath Of The Wild: How To Get The Green Tunic
Feeling green?
In the lead-up to the release of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, series creator Shigeru Miyamoto and Zelda producer Eiji Aonuma were keeping mum on whether or not Link's iconic green tunic would turn up in the game, opting instead to focus on Link's new look - a blue shirt dubbed the Champion's Tunic. Gone was the green cap...
Video If You Want to Beat The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild in One Hour, This is How
It's a speedrun, so MASSIVE SPOILERS
We've always enjoyed watching speedrunners at work in classic Legend of Zelda titles, finding glitches or perhaps just optimal routes through the adventures. There are so many different classifications, too, meaning that players of various types can showcase their skills while mastering a game. The Legend of...
News Iwata Was Watching Over Us, Says Zelda: Breath Of The Wild's Director
"That became a source of motivation, a drive for us to improve"
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is barely a week old, yet it has already become one of the most critically-acclaimed video games of recent memory, scoring a series of perfect review scores and thrilling gamers all over the world. The game is notable for the way in breaks from...
Video 13 Things You Can Do in Zelda: Breath of the Wild that You Might Not Know About
It's a snappy headline...
There's a lot of freedom in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, and it seems that this freedom may be more expansive than we first thought. During our time playing our curiosity bested us and we've discovered a whole array of funny, quirky, and even some marginally practical features that certainly aren't spelled out...
Video Zelda: Breath of the Wild Given More Framerate 'Stress Tests' on Wii U and Switch
Putting the GPUs to work
The comparison of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild on Wii U and Nintendo Switch has been rather interesting. We had our initial say (with a more detailed / final write-up coming later this week, not today as initially promised) and our colleagues at Digital Foundry have been putting their benchmarking tools to work in...
News Shigeru Miyamoto Spent A Lot Of Time Climbing Trees In Zelda: Breath Of The Wild
"He just kept climbing trees. Up and down"
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is easily one of the most ambitious games Nintendo has ever created, affording the player an incredible degree of freedom within a massive game world. However, getting to this level of scope and scale wasn't an easy process, and director Hidemaro Fujibayashi has been...
Guide Zelda: Breath Of The Wild: How To Get The Master Sword
After all, who doesn't want the legendary sword that seals the darkness?
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is easily the biggest adventure in the long-running series yet, but it's also significant in that it does away with a lot of the traditions which have been present in the franchise for decades, such as Link's iconic green clothing and...
News Shantae: Half-Genie Hero Version 1.01 Goes Live in North America on Thursday
Hard Core Mode inbound!
As it stands, Shantae: Half-Genie Hero is already an excellent game, but we knew from the start that this is only the beginning. Due to an incredibly successful Kickstarter run, there's plenty of extra content coming via DLC, some free and some paid depending on whether or not you were an original backer. Though the meat of...
News Caveman Warriors is Stretching for Nintendo Switch and Wii U on Kickstarter
Let's go Clubbing
Since Kickstarter launched back in 2009 the crowdfunding campaign website has continued its growth, allowing fans to invest money in projects they want to see come to light. One title that has started to gain some momentum is 2D action-platformer Caveman Warriors. Promising solo or co-op for up to 4 players, Caveman Warriors wants...
Guide Zelda: Breath Of The Wild: All Great Fairy Fountain Locations
Bag those armour upgrades
Fairies have been a common feature in Zelda games for decades, and while The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild breaks from convention in so many ways, it retains this key element. You'll find four Great Fairies in the game, each residing its own foundation hidden in Hyrule. You'll want to seek them out as soon as...
News Zelda: Breath of the Wild Makes UK Debut in Second, Three Top 10 Switch Titles in Total
Third biggest Zelda launch in franchise history
Last week was an important one for Nintendo, with the arrival of its Switch hardware and launch slate of games around the world. Early indicators seem relatively positive with plenty of stores in various territories selling out of launch stock, but hard numbers and chart results will help with a...
Video Digital Foundry Tackles Zelda: Breath of the Wild on Nintendo Switch vs. Wii U
Is it worth Switching up?
This week The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild released simultaneously as both a Nintendo Switch launch game and the Wii U's swansong. Already praised as one of the greatest games of all time (we also gave it top marks in our review) history is repeating itself with a Twilight Princes
Feature First Impressions of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild on Wii U
A solid start
We've been absolutely blown away by The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild on Nintendo Switch, awarding it the maximum of 10/10 in our review. As a game to introduce players both to a revolution in the IP and new hardware it delivers in spectacular fashion. Yet, of course, just like The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess it is st
Guide Zelda: Breath Of The Wild Guide: Getting Started And Beginner Tips
It's dangerous to go alone
As we explained in our review of the Switch version, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is quite unlike any other entry in the Zelda series. An open-world non-linear experience, traversal of the world is a fresh take and survival becomes an early challenge. You don't get hearts from chopping grass any more, so you...
News Zelda: Breath of the Wild GDC Presentation Shows Off Dev Process and Bizarre Early Concepts
'Hyrule Wars' and an alien invasion were early ideas left behind
Earlier this month Nintendo confirmed that it'd give a talk at Game Developer Conference in San Francisco focused on The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. The presentation, called Change and Constant – Breaking Conventions with Breath of the Wild, has now taken place, and it gave...
News Wii U Hardware Sales Dip Below Xbox One in Japan as Nintendo Switch Looms
The end is nigh
It's the middle of the week, which means it's Media Create charts time. It's not a memorable week for Nintendo due to new releases on Sony hardware dominating, but there's a grisly landmark for Wii U to signify its upcoming passing of the torch to Nintendo Switch. Starting with software we have new releases (and Nioh) dominating the...
February2017
News Axiom Verge is Getting a Special Edition Physical Release on Wii U
Yes, the Wii U
As many of you are no doubt aware, last year was the 30th anniversary of a certain orange and red intergalactic bounty hunter's series. Of course, you'd be forgiven for missing this; aside from releasing the middling spin-off Metroid Prime: Federation Force, the Big N let the milestone pass by unnoticed. Fortunately, fans of the...
Feature A Chat About Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Evolution of the Franchise
What we're allowed to talk about, anyway
A common (and fair) request often made of us is to share multiple perspectives on major releases beyond the main reviewer. While not always possible, in the case of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild it's been on the cards, with a couple of members of our team tackling the adventure in order to produce...
News Wii Karaoke U To Close In Europe By End Of March
Hit Mii baby one more time
Nintendo has revealed that the Wii Karaoke U service is to end at the close of March in Europe. After 23:59 BST on 31st March, the service will go offline and any ticket purchased for use with the software will cease to work. From 1st March the 30-day ticket will no longer be available, and on 31st March itself all other...
News Wonder What Zelda: Breath Of The Wild's New amiibo Do? Wonder No Longer
Needless to say, spoilers contained within...
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is almost upon us, and the game is being accompanied by a range of everyone's favourite frivolous use of plastic: amiibo. Nintendo has been rather cagey about revealing exactly what these figures unlock in the game, but GameXplain has decided to spoil everyone's...
News Nintendo France Expects Switch To Beat Wii U's Lifetime Sales In Region By Year End
Also sees a bright year ahead for the 3DS
Nintendo France's Philippe Lavoue expects the Switch to clear the Wii U's lifetime sales in that region by the end of 2017. Speaking to Gamekult, Lavoue says that Nintendo France anticipates end-of-year sales of 800,000 units, which includes 95,000 units sold on day one. He also predicts a near 1:1 attach...
News Nintendo Addresses the Question of Link's Green Tunic in Breath of the Wild
If you don't want a small spoiler, don't click
First of all, small spoiler alert. We're not even sure it's a spoiler, but it's a sensitive topic for some so we're calling it one anyway. If you go further than this it's on you... The moment we had our very first glimpse of the next iteration of the Zelda series way back in 2014, something didn't...
News 2013 Kickstarter Success Soul Saga Is Still Coming To The Wii U eShop
No news on Switch version, though
Soul Saga was successfully funded on Kickstarter way back in 2013, with 5,631 backers pledging $195,528 to make Disastercake's love letter to classic titles like Final Fantasy a reality. A Wii U version was secured even before the campaign had ended, with the developer outlining some fairly bold plans for how the
News THQ Nordic Reconfirms Darksiders: Warmastered Edition for Wii U
The war goes on
With the Switch only about two weeks away from launch, the upcoming release schedule for the Wii U has been looking quite dire. Darksiders: Warmastered Edition was a release that was initially scheduled for Wii U, but was delayed due to technical problems and subsequently missed the November release the game received on other...
News The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Developers to Host GDC Panel
"Change and Constant – Breaking Conventions with Breath of the Wild"
Game Developers Conference - commonly known simply as GDC - is a major event for game creators and publishers to network and see what's happening in the world of game design. Nintendo, for its part, has announced that it'll be hosting a panel focused on The Legend of Zelda:...
Video Lego Dimensions Is The Only Way To Play The Lego Batman Movie
Be the Batman
Last year we voiced the opinion that Wii U owners should be thankful for Lego Dimensions, which has kept the console alive with its expansion packs despite other titles drying up. Even though the Switch is less than a month away, Wii U owners can still look forward to more block-busting content with the release of a new wave of packs,...
News The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Screenshot Confirms Returning Character
Still no Tingle?
As we close in to the release of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild it is customary for more details to emerge. If you are wanting to venture into the world of Hyrule completely blind come March 3rd, however, then click away now. Previously we mentioned a screenshot showing a lone wanderer in front of what seems to be a...
News Pokkén Tournament Falls Short in the EVO 2017 Player's Choice Vote
It raised a lot of money, though
A couple weeks ago, we reported on the upcoming Player's Choice Vote for EVO 2017, in which Pokkén Tournament and ARMS were potential winners. Nine games were in the running, with the winner being decided based on which game generated the most charity donations. The window for donations just closed today, and...
News Yep, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Takes Place After Ocarina of Time
Eiji Aonuma confirms in quickfire interview
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is getting painfully close, and Nintendo is cranking up the hype machine; awareness of the title will be boosted by its prominence on the Game Informer cover, for example, along with features within the magazine. Game Informer has now posted a rather fun
News The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Secures Gorgeous Cover on Game Informer Magazine
Spreading the word
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild may be a dual release on Nintendo Switch and Wii U, but unsurprisingly it's the version on the new system that's the focus for the big N. Its aim of making sure as many gamers as possible get hyped about the title has been helped by securing the March cover of Game Informer, the well-known...
Random Eiji Aonuma Shows His Awesomeness in Light-Hearted Breath of the Wild Videos
Almost as good as the Cucco dance
In this oh-so-serious world, it's always a treat when someone with a job as demanding as being series producer for The Legend of Zelda shows their funny side. Over the years Eiji Aonuma has made us smile quite a few times, and in order to tap into this Nintendo of Europe has started posting and sharing some fun...
Video A Good Look at Why the Nintendo Switch Isn't Comparable to the Wii U GamePad
GameXplain goes a little further with a dev unit
An interesting part of the Nintendo Switch Presentation out of Tokyo was the segment where the company highlighted the concept as an evolution on about 30-35 years of home console design. Of course, due to its portable nature some have wondered aloud about the quality of the build and its comparison...
News Nintendo Has Finally Pulled The Plug On Project Giant Robot
System failure
Nintendo has cancelled the experimental Wii U title Project Giant Robot, it has been confirmed. The game was originally shown off at E3 2014 alongside Project Guard as a showcase for the unique potential of the Wii U's GamePad controller. While Project Guard would become part of the Star Fox serie
January2017
News Nintendo Details UK Pre-Order Bonuses For Zelda: Breath Of The Wild
More tat than you can Sheikah stick at
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is almost with us, and if you're currently weighing up a purchase you might want to cast your eyes over the pre-order bonuses detailed below. These are unique to particular UK retailers, and if you want everything listed on this page then you're going to have to dig deep...
News I Don't Always Agree With Shigeru Miyamoto On The Essence Of Zelda, Admits Eiji Aonuma
"We're not always on the same page"
The Legend of Zelda producer Eiji Aonuma has admitted that he doesn't always see eye to eye with series creator Shigeru Miyamoto when it comes to defining the "essence" of the franchise. Speaking to GameKult, Aonuma explained that there was much debate over Breath of the Wild, but the two have "eventually" agreed...
News The Legend of Zelda: Breath Of The Wild Will Not Feature HD Rumble
No good vibrations?
With less than two months until launch anticipation for the next entry in The Legend of Zelda series could not be higher. New details have now emerged from french gaming website Gameblog who sat down with series producer Eiji Aonuma to discuss the release. In the interview, Mr Aonuma confirmed that the HD rumble feature will not...
News Kerbal Space Program Developer Reevaluating Proposed Wii U Port
"The industry landscape changed since we made that announcement"
If you'd clean forgotten that Kerbal Space Program had even been announced for the Wii U, don't worry - so had we, to be perfectly honest. We've heard pretty much nothing since it was revealed the game would be ported to Nintendo's current home console, but now developer Squad has...
News Ghost Blade HD Is Bringing Intense Bullet Hell Action To The Wii U eShop
Not dead yet
North American publisher 2Dream is bringing Hucast's bullet hell shooter Ghost Blade HD to the Wii U eShop this year, it has been announced. This vertically-scrolling blaster is the latest title from Germany's Hucast Games, previously responsible for the similarily manic Redux: Dark Matters. It boasts a two-player local co-op mode, 5...
News Racing Apex Puts The Pedal To The Metal For A Nintendo Switch Release
Wii U release still on track, too
Lucky Mountain Games has revealed that Racing Apex is coming to the Nintendo Switch. Taking inspiration from early arcade 3D racers such as Virtua Racing and Winning Run, Racing Apex adds in combat elements which makes it look and feel a little like Activision's cult hit Interstate '76 - which is no bad thing at...
News The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Guide Highlights Range of Puzzles and Side Quests
Mini spoilers inside...
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, on both Nintendo Switch and Wii U, is now tantalisingly close. After years of mystery and about 7-8 months of intense build-up, we'll soon be able to enjoy the next full '3D' entry in the series. We already know that it has an enormous game world, the biggest yet in the series, and a...
News Eiji Aonuma Teases Alternate Ending for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
It will require you to meet certain criteria
Another fresh detail from the IGN Portugal interview with The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild producer Eiji Aonuma has been published, and it's one that's sure to be of interest to completionists. When asked if there would be any alternate endings in the title, Aonuma replied - Yes there is
Exclusive Unlikely Legend Of Rusty Pup Confirmed For Switch, Wii U Version Canned
3DS version "dependent on resources and time"
We've been following the development of Gory Detail's The Unlikely Legend of Rusty Pup quite closely since we broke news of its existence back in 2013. Created by two former Rare developers - Chris Seaver and Shawn Pile - this unique puzzle plaformer continues to shape up nicely, as we found when we...
News Reggie on Wii U Support Going Forward
"We really are at the end of life for Wii U"
Now that the Switch has seen a full reveal and is rapidly nearing its worldwide release, the Wii U is already starting to become a fading memory. Developers left and right have been dropping planned ports of games in favor of the Switch, and now Nintendo itself has stated that its throwing in the towel...
News Princess Zelda is "Very Complex and Multi-Faceted" in Breath of the Wild, Aonuma Explains
So don't get carried away over 2 seconds of crying in the trailer
We think it's fair to say that the new trailer for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild stole the show during last week's Nintendo Switch presentation, providing a strong flourish with which to end the broadcast. It was packed full of new scenes, characters and sent chills up many...
News Eiji Aonuma Outlines the Challenges in Developing The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Discusses changes made to incorporate the Switch
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is now just weeks away, arriving on the Nintendo Switch and Wii U on 3rd March. The anticipation is palpable, as it's not only the first new '3D' Legend of Zelda title since Skyward Sword on Wii, but it's the most ambitious game the series has ever seen. An...
News The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Will Require a 3GB Install on Wii U
For all you physical buyers
Yesterday, it was announced that The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild would amazingly be just 13GB on Wii U and 13.4GB on Switch. Considering that it's one of the most ambitious projects Nintendo's ever undertaken, that's quite impressive, and its relatively small size will no doubt entice many buyers into picking up a...
News The Legend of Zelda: Breath Of The Wild Is A 13.4GB Download On Nintendo Switch
And 13GB on Wii U
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild will take up 13.4GB of internal storage on Switch, should you choose to download it rather than buy the physical game card. On Wii U, it takes up 13GB. That's quite an amazing achievement when you consider the sheer size of the game, but it could potentially cause headaches for those who...
News Zelda and Bokoblin Added to Breath of the Wild amiibo Range
More small delights
Today's Nintendo Switch Presentation had plenty of reveals, but some details have emerged through press releases and website updates. For example, two additional amiibo have been shown off for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, which is coming to both the Switch and Wii U on 3rd March. These additions are Zelda, who made a
News The Wii U Generated Just 2.1 Percent Of UK Games Market Revenue In 2016
3DS did better with 6 percent
The UK physical games market fell 15.8 percent to £1.78bn in 2016, according to the latest figures from GfK. Sales of PS4, Xbox One, Wii U, 3DS and older systems suffered a considerable drop, falling by 27 percent. Home consoles generated £503m of revenue in 2016 compared to £689.5m in 2015. The only exception was...
Video Ladies And Gentlemen, We Might Have Found The Worst Game On Wii U
Alex suffers for his art
Like any console, the Wii U has seen its fair share of stinkers. Not every game can be like Splatoon, Super Mario 3D World or Bayonetta 2; some will invariably fall short of greatness and make you wonder exactly what compelled you to hand over your hard-earned cash in the first place. However, if you've ever wondered...
Soapbox Why I Still Love the Wii U
Forgotten by some, but not gone
On what Steve (a reviewer on these pages) is calling 'Switchmas Eve', he shares his love for the system that's soon to be replaced by the Nintendo Switch. He raises a glass to the Wii U. It's Switchmas Eve, and like a child waiting for Father Christmas I couldn't be more excited for what the Nintendo Switch...
News Shovel Knight Is Coming To Nintendo Switch With Gender Swapping And Co-Op Modes
Wii U and 3DS versions will also be updated
Shovel Knight is making the jump to the Nintendo Switch in a new version entitled Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove, it has been announced today. Treasure Trove isn't really a sequel but more a restructured release with new features. Those of you who already own the original game on any of the currently...
News Homebrew App Allows Smartphones To Imitate The Wii U GamePad
Early days, but impressive nonetheless
Nintendo never did get around to releasing Wii U GamePads which could be purchased separately, but that might not matter all that much now that progress has been made on a homebrew app which allows a smartphone to replicate the performance of the much-maligned controller. Created by Rolando Islas, this drc-sim...
News Star Wars Rogue One Toys Were In The Works For Disney Infinity
Ninja Theory was working on the game content
It's a little odd that we had a new Star Wars movie in 2016 but no video game to accompany it, but it has now been revealed that there were plans for interactive content based on Rogue One: A Star Wars Story - the trouble is, it was attached to Disney Infinity 3.0, which had its plug pulled early last...
News Check Out This New Village Area in Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
"The afternoon sky was dark as night and red as blood"
Though Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night is unfortunately quite some time away from being in the hands of gamers, Koji igarashi and his team have been doing a good job of communicating progress to their Kickstarter backers and showing how the game is shaping up. In the last post, we got a look...
News The Latest Breath of the Wild Screenshot Potentially Reveals Beedle the Merchant
OOOOOOOOooooooohhhh!!!
Beedle was one of the more memorable additions to recent Zelda games, showing up in all the Toon Link games, along with Skyward Sword. The quirky merchant is always on the move, be it by boat or hot air balloon, and becomes a familiar face in your travels through the overworld. Sure, his prices can be outrageous at times, but...
News Activision's Amazing Spider-Man Games Make A Sharp Exit From The Wii U eShop
The web-slinger runs out of time
Activision's two Amazing Spider-Man games for the Wii U have been yanked from the Wii U eShop. While neither title could be considered a solid-gold classic, The Amazing Spider-Man and The Amazing Spider-Man 2 presumably had an audience thanks to the licence alone - and it would seem that is also the reason for their...
Review Skylanders Imaginators (Wii U)
Use your imagination
With the demise of Disney Infinity you may think that toys to life games are on the way out. However, with the Skylanders Academy show on Netflix and another new game for fans, Activision are pressing ahead - for the time being, at least. Skylanders Imaginators is this year's game and it offers a substantial twist on what has...
News CoroCoro Magazine Reportedly Pegs The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild for Spring Release
Take a deep breath
Rumours have been circulating for a while now as to when The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild will finally be released. Estimates have ranged from the Switch launch, to 'Spring' and also 'Summer'. Fans have been wishing for Zelda will be part of the Switch launch lineup, of course, and now Japanese magazine CoroCoro has...
December2016
Deals Buy a Deluxe Wii U from Nintendo for $200
Making up for Black Friday
While the Wii U didn't receive the discounts many were anticipating this year, Nintendo of America has come through with an after-holiday deal for its 32GB Deluxe System which comes with Nintendo Land; it's a refurbished unit for $200. You can buy a system from Nintendo here. These Wii U's are straight from Nintendo...
Talking Point Splatoon May Be Winding Down, But Its Legacy Could Be Significant
Modern trends with a Nintendo touch
In the remainder of 2016 we'll re-share some of our favourite feature articles from the year. This article from 4th August reflects on the end of an era after the final Splatoon Splatfest, and how the colourful shooter established a DLC model for Nintendo that's sure to return in the future. Recently we had the...
News Devil's Third Loses Its Saving Grace as Online Servers Are Closed
And like that... it's gone
Devil's Third had an interesting time on Wii U, initially as a system exclusive; it was fiercely defended by Tomonobu Itagaki and fans, savaged by others, and greeted with a shrug of indifference by many. Years in the making and a manic 'mature' shooter / action hybrid, it was one of the more intriguing releases of this...
A Link to the Present
In the remainder of 2016 we'll re-share some of our favourite feature articles from the year. This article considers the bigger picture behind the design decisions in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, based on some extended playtime with the E3 build at Nintendo UK's HQ. This was originally published on 29th June, back...
Rumour Intelligent Systems Has Canned A Crashmo Sequel For Wii U
Resource now shifted over to Nintendo Switch projects
Intelligent Systems has pulled the plug on a proposed Crashmo / Fallblox sequel which was supposed to be coming to the Wii U, according to a report by Unseen 64 and Nintendo Life contributor Liam Robertson. According to Robertson's sources, development on the game - known as Crashmo / Fallblox...
Video The Latest Event Course in Super Mario Maker Wants You to Use Your Head
Well, not YOUR head...
Super Mario Maker is delightfully quirky - if a structured Mario game is a piece of art, the level creation tool is a scruffy yet oddly exciting street play. It's silly and ridiculous, encouraging players around the world to create daft stages full of puzzles, sound effects and oddly stacked enemies. Yet Nintendo can always...
Review Shantae: Half-Genie Hero (Wii U)
Genieus
Immediately upon seeing the title screen and hearing the game's main theme, you know that Shantae: Half-Genie Hero is another step forward for this series. Back in 2002, Shantae made her debut on the Game Boy Color to rave reviews but disappointing sales — hardly a shock when you take into account the GBC was on its last legs — but the...
Video Shantae: Half-Genie Hero's Launch Trailer Will Swash Your Buckles
Ret-2-Go!
Unless you've been trapped in a genie's bottle, you'll probably know that WayForward's amazing looking Shantae: Half-Genie Hero has finally made it to the Wii U. To celebrate Shantae embarking on her first full HD adventure the good folks over at WayForward recently put out a launch trailer with a rousing soundtrack which you can watch...
Editorial Rediscovering the Simple Pleasures of 2D Platformers on Wii U
What mascots do best
Heading towards the festive period I often revisit older games, favourites that have perhaps been untouched for a year or two. That's certainly the case this year, where relatively few recent blockbusters (on any platform) have been tempting enough to make me part from my cash. There's also a bit of premature nostalgia at play,...
News Minecraft Is Getting Fallout DLC And It's Coming To The Wii U
Taking the nuclear option
While Nintendo fans have been cruelly denied the chance to play the recent entries in Bethesda's Fallout series, there's some good news on the horizon - no, Fallout 4 isn't confirmed for the Nintendo Switch before you get too excited - but the Wii U version of Minecraft is getting Fallout-themed content via a new DLC...
Feature The Wii U's Journey - Four Years of Excellence, Failure and Indifference
It wasn't to be
The Wii U is now just over four years old, passing the milestone most recently on 8th December (for the Japanese release). This is the point when it should be contemplating a steady step back, still accumulating quality games while the 'next generation' starts to loom. That would be the norm, but the gaming industry - like the...
News Fresh Download Discounts Come To My Nintendo In North America
Mario Tennis! Wrecking Crew! Mario & Luigi!
A fresh batch of 3DS and Wii U software discounts have gone live on the North American My Nintendo site, along with some items for Miitomo. Here's what's new: 3DS/Wii U Software Discounts • 20% Discount on Mario Tennis (Wii U) - 200 Platinum Points • 20% Discount on Wrecking Crew (Wii U) - 100...
News 3D Platformer Clive 'N' Wrench No Longer Leaping Onto Wii U
There's a pattern here...
Remember Clive 'N' Wrench, a 3D platformer inspired by the likes of Banjo-Kazooie? We'll forgive you if you don't, but back in February 2015 we reported that the title was bound for the Wii U subject to a successful Kickstarter campaign. The game raised just
Editorial As Games Jump to Nintendo Switch, We See How Quickly the Industry Moves On
The Wii U is only just over four years old, but is almost last-gen
The Wii U doesn't have too many big-name games still confirmed to be on the way, especially from third-parties. As a result the cancellation of Yooka-Laylee on the platform has led to quite a reaction, which I suspect is partly reflective of some wider frustrations. First of all,...
News Yooka-Laylee's Wii U Cancellation is Only Due to Technical Challenges, Not the System's Woes
"We can assure you this was a hard decision for everyone"
Earlier today there was the disappointing news that Yooka-Laylee is no longer coming to Wii U. When the game was first revealed Playtonic Games emphasized the importance of Nintendo hardware to the game, with a number of backers opting for the Wii U iteration in the Kickstarter campaign. The...
News Yooka-Laylee Rattles Away From Wii U Release
Are you happy with the switch to Switch?
In a move which isn't necessarily surprising, it has now been confirmed that the much anticipated Yooka-Laylee will not longer be getting a Wii U release. In a recent blog post on the Playtonic Games site, the reasoning for this is explained. The Playtonic team is sad to confirm that despite our best...
Rumour Yooka-Laylee Might Be Released in April
Not long now
Playtonic's highly anticipated collectathon, Yooka-Laylee, is expected to launch sometime early next year, though the exact time has not been specified. Considering that we're rapidly closing in on the launch window, one would expect a release date to be forthcoming, but it seems that a few online storefronts may have accidentally let...
News Shigeru Miyamoto Thinks Nintendo Should Have Made Minecraft
"We had some designs that were very similar"
Minecraft is unquestionably one of the most popular video games in the world right now, especially with young children. A vast toybox full of cool tricks and a strong online element, the game has found its way on to practically every viable system, including the Wii U. The success of Minecraft hasn't...
Random Store Employees Buy Wii U For Teen Who Visited Every Day To Play Smash Bros.
Tis the season, after all
Christmas is a time when heart-warming gestures are commonplace, and this tale of selflessness should warm even the coldest of souls. According to staff at Best Buy in Valley Stream, New York, a teenage Smash Bros. fan would come to the outlet every day in order to play the Wii U outing on the store demo pod. Such was this...
News Shantae: Half-Genie Hero Retail Edition Heading to Wii U on 27th December
Still hits the eShop on 20th December, though
Shantae, WayForward's tentpole IP that's developed an audience on Nintendo portables in addition to other systems through remasters, is getting its next title very soon - Shantae: Half-Genie Hero. Crowdfunded and a decent amount of time in the making, we're now just a couple of weeks from playing it. A...
Rumour Koei Tecmo Pitched a Star Fox Game, But it Was Rejected
Another Warriors title, it would seem
Earlier today, Laura Kate Dale of Let's Play Video Games released a cache of info on Nintendo's recent plans, including the soon-to-be fully revealed Nintendo Switch. Among the info was a particularly interesting bit about the future of the Star Fox franchise; apparently Koei Tecmo approached Nintendo earlier...
Video It's Not Hard to Spot the Difference in This Super Mario Maker 3DS & Wii U Comparison
It really isn't...
Super Mario Maker is now available on the 3DS of all things, and if our review is anything to go by it's more than worth your time if you're currently in a state of Wii U-lessness. But can this shrunk-down version compete with its HD counterpart in the visual arena? Of course not, the whole idea that the two would be vaguely...
Video Empoleon Struts His Stuff In New Pokkén Tournament Trailer
Hail the emperor (penguin)
Long rumoured as a new combatant in the excellent Pokkén Tournament, Empoleon is finally making his debut in the coin-op edition of the popular one-on-one brawler, and Bandai Namco has released a special trailer to mark the occasion. Packed with in-game action featuring the penguin-like Pokémon, the trailer shows the...
News SnowCastle Games Wants To Bring Earthlock: Festival Of Magic To Nintendo Switch
But of course
Kickstarter project Earthlock: Festival of Magic has taken its sweet time coming to the Wii U, one of the platforms originally mentioned in the crowdfunding campaign. It's still on course, with a release early in 2017 planned, but SnowCastle Games CEO Bendik Stang has now revealed that he and his team want to see the game on the...
Feature 10 Essential Wii U And 3DS Platformers
Jump to it
Not long ago we picked out 10 RPG gems that we think are pretty much indispensable for fans of the genre that own a 3DS. Now, with the recent release of Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS, we thought it was high time to look at the best of the platforming genre. To do the word 'essential' justice, though, this list takes in both the Wii U...
Feature Xenoblade Chronicles X - One Year Later
Musing on Mira
In this article Gonçalo "Shiryu" Lopes shares his personal reflections on Xenoblade Chronicles X, the enthralling Wii U title. Exactly one year ago Wii U owners were given a unique opportunity to escape reality by embarking on the extremely difficult assignment: to beat extinction against all odds on Planet Mira. But Xenoblade...
News The Legend of Zelda 30th Anniversary amiibo Provide Food and Goodies in Breath of the Wild
Self-scan groceries
In The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Link is more of a living, breathing character. He always has been, of course, but in the upcoming Switch / Wii U title you need to manage his clothing and diet to keep him healthy and ready for the environment. You'll need to catch, cook and prepare food to get through the challenge...
News Empoleon is Coming to the Arcade Version of Pokkén Tournament
So the rumours were true
You've gotta give the developers of Pokkén Tournament credit, they've kept the game going for quite some time post-release with new characters. Though the Wii U version hasn't really gotten the benefit of receiving these new fighters, their existence in the arcade version mean that there's always a chance that an update...
November2016
News The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Has a Lovely Official Website
We'll Link to it
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is expected to be one of the hottest releases on 2017, heading to both the Wii U and Nintendo Switch. Just ahead of the game getting new footage shown off at The Game Awards, Nintendo
Guide The Top Nintendo Black Friday 2016 Deals in the US
Grab yourself a bargain!
It's that time, once again, when shoppers around the world prepare to brave the crowds in search of bargains. The Black Friday festivities are mostly based in crowded stores, though plenty of deals can also be hunted down online. For gamers, it's often a time of year for stocking up on goodies ahead of the festive season;...
Guide The Top Nintendo Black Friday 2016 Deals in the UK
Grab yourself a bargain
It's that time, once again, for Black Friday, when shoppers around the world prepare to brave the crowds in search of bargains. Though originally an American tradition, like Big Macs and over-sized soft drinks it's been exported around the world, for better and worse. A lot of UK bricks-and-mortar stores try and avoid the...
News GAME In-Store Advertising Indicates March 2017 Release For Zelda: Breath Of The Wild
We hope you're keeping up
The Zelda: Breath of the Wild rollercoaster continues. While there have been rumours that the title won't make the Switch launch, yesterday we reported that US retailer GameStop has it listed as a Q1 2017 release (before April, basically). We now have more evidence to suggest that
Soapbox In The Wii U's Final Days, Let's Be Thankful For Lego Dimensions
Keeping the dream alive
With production coming to an end, big-name releases drying up and previously-confirmed titles getting cancelled left, right and center, Wii U owners have every right to feel a bit glum at the moment. Switch is coming early nex
News Nintendo Marks Sonic's 25th Birthday With Digital Sale In North America
Save up to 60 percent on select titles
Sonic turns 25 this year and Nintendo is marking the occasion with a sale on selected Sonic the Hedgehog titles, no doubt inspired by the Black Friday madness which is currently gripping the planet. The titles - all digital versions, of course - are: 3D Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (3DS) - $2.99 (no
News GameStop Thinks We'll Be Playing Zelda: Breath Of The Wild Before April
Could it be a Switch launch title after all?
It's fair to say that the rumour that The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild won't be hitting the Nintendo Switch at launch caused quite a bit of upset, and since then we've seen evidence to suggest that it could arrive later in the year - a listing on Targe
News Lego City Undercover Is Coming To Nintendo Switch And Other Platforms Next Year
No longer Wii U exclusive
Warner Bros. Games has just announced that it is porting Wii U exclusive Lego City Undercover to PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Steam and - most importantly of all - Nintendo Switch next summer. The game launched to critical acclaim back in 2013 and was accompanied by a 3DS prequel. It made excellent use of the Wii U GamePad as...
Feature 25 Essential Wii U Retail Games
Play them all
With the Wii U turning four years old in North America just recently, and with the system soon to be supplanted by the Nintendo Switch, we've been reflecting on the console's qualities and failings. One thing we've consistently argued, however, is that there's a core of excellent games on the system, many of them exclusives, that are...
Feature Reflecting on Four Years of the Wii U
Four NL writers pitch in on the outgoing system
The Wii U has now passed its 4th Birthday, in North America at least, though its generation is already nearing its end. A bad run, imminent discontinuation and the March 2017 arrival of the Nintendo Switch all mean that the system is on its way out, a sad fate for a system that has had some terrific...
Poll The Wii U is Four Years Old, But What Is Its Legacy?
The GamePad! HD Nintendo games! Rubbish file management!
On 18th November 2012, the Wii U was launched in North America. There was a high profile midnight launch attended by Reggie Fils-Aime to give it positive press, and it was Nintendo's jump into HD gaming, with a GamePad-led concept at the core of the messaging. The system had a relatively...
News Tomonobu Itagaki on Why Devil's Third Underperformed
Basically, NoA let him down
Many of you no doubt remember Devil's Third, the ill-fated third person action game from the creator of Ninja Gaiden. Though there was plenty of enthusiasm around the game during its initial reveal as a Wii U exclusive, pre-release confusion and quality concerns ultimately led to it having an underperforming debut,...
Wii U - Features
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PSA 3DS And Wii U eShop Download Codes Can No Longer Be Redeemed
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