The Nintendo Wii U, while not as commercially successful as its predecessor, the Wii, or its successor, the Nintendo Switch, still holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers. It introduced innovative gameplay mechanics with its GamePad controller and boasted a library of unique and memorable titles. However, due to the Wii U's limited success, many fantastic games remained exclusive to the platform. With the Switch's immense popularity, there's been a steady stream of Wii U games making their way to the hybrid console, often with enhanced features and improved performance. But, guys, not every gem has been unearthed just yet! This article is dedicated to those unsung heroes, the Wii U games that are still waiting for their chance to shine on the Nintendo Switch. We'll explore why these games deserve a port, what makes them special, and how they could potentially benefit from the Switch's capabilities.

Why Port Wii U Games to the Switch?

Before diving into specific titles, let's discuss why porting Wii U games to the Switch is a worthwhile endeavor. Firstly, it gives a second life to games that were played by a relatively small audience. The Switch has a significantly larger install base than the Wii U, meaning a port could introduce these games to millions of new players who never had the opportunity to experience them originally. Secondly, porting can enhance the original experience. Developers can take advantage of the Switch's improved hardware to optimize performance, improve graphics, and add new features. Touchscreen functionality, HD rumble, and the ability to play on the go are all factors that can make a ported game even better than the original. Thirdly, it preserves gaming history. By bringing these games to a modern platform, Nintendo ensures that they won't be forgotten and that future generations of gamers can enjoy them. Finally, let's be real, it's a win-win for everyone! Nintendo gets to bolster its Switch library with proven titles, developers get a chance to recoup their investments, and players get access to awesome games they might have missed.

Games Still Stuck on the Wii U

Okay, let's get to the good stuff! Here are some fantastic Wii U games that are still waiting for their turn in the Switch spotlight:

Nintendo Land

Nintendo Land, the Wii U's flagship launch title, remains a unique and charming experience that perfectly showcases the console's capabilities. This minigame collection, set in a virtual Nintendo theme park, features 12 attractions based on popular Nintendo franchises such as Mario, Zelda, and Metroid. Each attraction utilizes the GamePad in creative ways, offering asymmetrical gameplay that is both fun and engaging. Why does it deserve a Switch port? Well, imagine Nintendo Land reimagined for the Switch! The asymmetrical gameplay could be adapted to utilize the Joy-Cons, allowing for even more creative and dynamic multiplayer experiences. The Switch's portability would also make it perfect for on-the-go party gaming. While some might argue that the minigame collection format is outdated, Nintendo Land's charm and innovative gameplay still hold up today. A Switch port could introduce a whole new generation of players to this hidden gem and cement its legacy as a truly unique Nintendo experience.

Furthermore, a Switch version could expand upon the original with new attractions based on more recent Nintendo franchises like Splatoon, Arms, or even Animal Crossing. Imagine a Splatoon-themed shooting gallery or an Arms-inspired boxing game! The possibilities are endless. Nintendo could also add online multiplayer functionality, allowing players from around the world to compete in the various attractions. With some creative tweaks and additions, Nintendo Land could become a must-have party game on the Switch, proving that the Wii U's launch title still has plenty to offer. The original game cleverly used the Wii U's gamepad to create asymmetrical gameplay, where one player had a different view or abilities than the others. This led to hilarious and strategic moments, especially in games like Mario Chase and Luigi's Ghost Mansion. Replicating this on the Switch would require some ingenuity, but the Joy-Cons offer enough flexibility to potentially recreate that magic. Perhaps one player could use the Switch in handheld mode while others use the Joy-Cons on the TV, or maybe Nintendo could introduce new Joy-Con configurations specifically for Nintendo Land. The key is to maintain that sense of playful competition and strategic advantage that made the original so special. A Switch port of Nintendo Land wouldn't just be a rehash of the Wii U version; it would be an opportunity to reimagine the game for a new generation of players and showcase the unique capabilities of the Switch. With its charming presentation, innovative gameplay, and potential for expansion, Nintendo Land deserves a second chance to shine. Let's hope Nintendo is listening!

Star Fox Zero

Star Fox Zero, developed in collaboration with PlatinumGames, aimed to revitalize the Star Fox franchise with a fresh take on the classic gameplay. While the game received mixed reviews upon release, it's undeniable that it offered a unique and challenging experience that hasn't been replicated since. The game utilized the Wii U GamePad to provide a separate cockpit view, allowing players to aim and shoot independently of the main screen. This control scheme was initially divisive, but many players eventually came to appreciate its depth and precision. So, why should Star Fox Zero make its way to the Switch? The biggest hurdle is the control scheme. The dual-screen setup of the Wii U is absent on the Switch. However, this could be addressed by offering alternative control options. Gyro controls, which are already implemented in other Switch games, could provide a similar level of precision to the GamePad's aiming. The game could also be redesigned to focus on a single-screen experience, streamlining the gameplay and making it more accessible to new players. Beyond the controls, Star Fox Zero boasts impressive visuals and fast-paced action that would look great on the Switch. A port could also include new content, such as additional missions, vehicles, and online multiplayer modes. With some thoughtful tweaks and improvements, Star Fox Zero could find a new audience on the Switch and finally be recognized as the ambitious and innovative title it set out to be.

Moreover, a Switch port could offer a more traditional control scheme, allowing players to use the Joy-Cons in a standard configuration. This would likely be the most accessible option for players who struggled with the original's dual-screen setup. However, it would be important to retain the option for gyro controls, as many players found them to be a satisfying and intuitive way to aim. In addition to control improvements, a Switch port could also address some of the criticisms leveled at the game's story and characters. Perhaps the developers could add new cutscenes or dialogue to flesh out the narrative and make the characters more relatable. They could also introduce new characters or storylines to expand the Star Fox universe. Ultimately, a Switch port of Star Fox Zero would be an opportunity to refine the game and realize its full potential. By addressing the control issues, improving the presentation, and adding new content, Nintendo could create a Star Fox game that appeals to both longtime fans and newcomers alike. The potential is there, and with some careful attention, Star Fox Zero could become a worthy addition to the Switch's library.

Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE

Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE is a stylish and unique JRPG that blends the worlds of Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem. With its vibrant visuals, catchy music, and engaging combat system, the game is a standout title in the Wii U's library. Despite its quality, Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE was often overlooked due to the Wii U's limited audience and its niche appeal. So, why does it deserve a second chance on the Switch? Well, the Switch is the perfect platform for Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE. The console's portability makes it ideal for playing JRPGs on the go, and its larger install base would expose the game to a wider audience. A Switch port could also include new content, such as additional costumes, quests, and characters. The game's visuals could be enhanced to take advantage of the Switch's improved hardware, and the performance could be optimized for a smoother experience. Furthermore, a Switch port could address some of the localization issues that plagued the original release. Some fans felt that the English translation censored or altered certain aspects of the game, and a re-translation could provide a more faithful representation of the original Japanese version. With its unique blend of JRPG mechanics, its stylish presentation, and its potential for improvement, Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE is a perfect fit for the Nintendo Switch.

Furthermore, the Switch's online capabilities could be used to enhance the Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE experience. Nintendo could add online leaderboards for the game's combat challenges, allowing players to compete against each other for the highest scores. They could also introduce online co-op modes, allowing players to team up and tackle difficult dungeons or bosses together. The possibilities are endless. A Switch port of Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE wouldn't just be a rehash of the Wii U version; it would be an opportunity to reimagine the game for a new audience and showcase its unique strengths. With its engaging story, its addictive combat, and its stylish presentation, Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE deserves a second chance to shine on the Switch. Its vibrant visuals and over-the-top performances would look stunning on the Switch's screen, and its engaging story and characters would resonate with a wider audience. A Switch port would not only introduce the game to a new generation of players but also give longtime fans a chance to experience it in a whole new way.

Conclusion

The Wii U may not have been a commercial success, but it was home to a number of fantastic games that deserve a second chance. Nintendo Land, Star Fox Zero, and Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE are just a few examples of titles that could thrive on the Nintendo Switch. By porting these games to its current console, Nintendo could introduce them to a wider audience, enhance their gameplay, and preserve gaming history. So, Nintendo, if you're listening, please consider giving these Wii U exclusives a new lease on life on the Switch. Gamers everywhere would be grateful!