Can you still buy games on the Wii U eShop?
As of March 27th, 2023, it is no longer possible to purchase games or DLC from the Wii U eShop, but you can still redownload games you’ve already bought and play online for the time being. The Nintendo eShop on Wii U has been permanently closed, marking the end of an era for Nintendo‘s digital storefront on this console.
Background and History
The Wii U eShop was launched in 2012, providing a platform for users to purchase and download games, DLC, and other content directly to their Wii U console. Over the years, the eShop has been a vital part of the Wii U experience, offering a wide range of games, from Nintendo‘s iconic franchises like Mario and Zelda, to indie games and third-party titles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you still use eShop cards on Wii U?
As of August 29, 2022, it is no longer possible to use a Nintendo eShop Card to add funds to an account in Nintendo eShop on Wii U or the Nintendo 3DS family of systems. However, you can still redeem eShop cards on Nintendo Switch systems.
Is eShop open on Wii U?
The Nintendo 3DS and Wii U eShops have been permanently closed, meaning you can no longer purchase new games or DLC from the eShops. However, you can still download games and DLC that you have previously purchased.
Why did the Wii U fail?
The Wii U failed to appeal to both hardcore gamers and casual gamers, with the former seeing it as an overpriced and underpowered console, and the latter being happy to stick with their existing Wii consoles. Poor marketing and a confusing name also contributed to its lack of success.
Can I play games I bought on Wii U on Switch?
Unfortunately, Nintendo 3DS and Wii U games purchased through Nintendo eShop do not carry over to Nintendo Switch, as the Switch is an all-new way to play and does not include backwards compatibility with digital or physical games designed for other systems.
Can I redownload Wii U eShop games?
Yes, once you’ve purchased a game from the Wii U eShop, you can redownload it at no cost, as long as you have the same Nintendo Network ID associated with your Wii U console.
Can you still play Wii U online?
As of early April 2024, online play and other functionality that uses online communication will end service for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software. This means that you will no longer be able to play Wii U games online.
How long do Nintendo eShop cards last?
eShop cards do not expire, and there are no fees associated with them. You can redeem them on Nintendo Switch systems, but not on Wii U or 3DS systems after August 29, 2022.
How do I get Wii U games?
Although you can no longer purchase games from the Wii U eShop, you can still redownload games you’ve already bought. If you’re looking to purchase Wii U games, you may be able to find physical copies from retailers or second-hand stores.
How many games are on the Wii U eShop?
There were 266 downloadable-only Wii U games available on the eShop before it closed.
Is the Wii U going offline?
Nintendo has announced that online features for the Nintendo Wii U and 3DS will go offline in early April 2024. This means that you will no longer be able to play games online or access certain features.
When did Wii U Online end?
Online support for the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U will end in early April 2024.
Will the Wii U still download when it’s off?
Yes, the Wii U will continue to download items currently downloading in Download Management, including content purchased from the Nintendo eShop, system updates, software updates, and add-on content, even when it’s in standby mode.
Can you download games on Wii anymore?
It is no longer possible to purchase new content from the Wii Shop, but you can still redownload content you’ve previously purchased or transfer that content from a Wii system to a Wii U system.
Are Wii U digital games tied to console?
Yes, eShop purchases are recorded against your Nintendo Network ID, but they are only playable on the Wii U console they were originally downloaded to.
Are Wii U games tied to account?
On the Wii U, user purchases are tied to their Nintendo Network account, but they cannot be transferred to other systems by the user, as the Nintendo Network account is tied to a specific console.
How do I share money between Wii U and Switch?
You can merge funds from your Nintendo 3DS or Wii U account to your Nintendo Switch account by selecting Merge Funds from the Nintendo eShop on your Switch.
What killed the Wii?
The Wii was weakened by years of third-party neglect and shovelware, which led to a decline in its popularity and ultimately its demise.
Why was the Wii U hated so much?
The Wii U was seen as a less powerful console compared to its competitors, and its touchscreen gamepad was not enough to make it stand out. The console’s high price and poor marketing also contributed to its lack of success.