Launched 2012 (NA Nov 18, EU/UK Nov 30, JP Dec 8), Nintendo’s HD successor to the Wii introduced the Wii U GamePad, a 6.2” touchscreen controller enabling Off-TV Play, asymmetric multiplayer, built-in NFC for amiibo, motion controls, and a traditional dual-stick layout. The system offered backward compatibility with Wii games and accessories, plus Virtual Console, Miiverse, and robust local co-op options—perfect for living-room play.
A compact but acclaimed library shines with Super Mario 3D World, Mario Kart 8, Splatoon, Bayonetta 2, Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze, Pikmin 3, Super Smash Bros. for Wii U, and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (cross-gen). Many hits later migrated to Switch, keeping Wii U originals highly desirable for collectors and Nintendo fans.
