As a Nintendo console, the Wii U often gets overlooked when compared to other popular gaming platforms, but it has its fair share of standout titles. One genre that flourished on the Wii U was fighting games. From traditional 2D brawlers to 3D combatants, the system offered some of the best competitive experiences in the genre. Whether you’re an aspiring esports champion or a casual player looking for fun multiplayer action, there’s a Wii U fighting game for you. Here’s a roundup of the top 10+ best Wii U fighting games that you should definitely add to your collection.
1. Super Smash Bros. for Wii U
When it comes to fighting games on the Wii U, there’s no topping Super Smash Bros. This iconic franchise has been a favorite of fighting game fans for decades, and the Wii U version is no exception. With an expansive roster of characters from various Nintendo franchises (and beyond), including Mario, Link, Samus, Sonic, and even Pac-Man, there’s something for everyone. The gameplay offers a combination of simplicity and depth, allowing beginners to have fun while offering advanced techniques for seasoned players. The multiplayer mode is a blast, supporting up to eight players locally, and its online mode brings competitive matches to players worldwide.
2. Pokkén Tournament
Pokkén Tournament is a unique blend of Pokémon and traditional fighting games. Developed by Bandai Namco, this game brings together iconic Pokémon like Pikachu, Lucario, and Charizard in 3D fighting arenas. The gameplay mechanics combine elements from Tekken and traditional 2D fighters, offering a dynamic battle system with smooth combos and flashy moves. Pokkén Tournament’s visual appeal is unmatched on the Wii U, with high-definition Pokémon models that make the action feel immersive. If you’re a Pokémon fan who’s also a fighting game enthusiast, this is a must-have title.
3. Mario Kart 8 (Not a Fighting Game, But a Must-Have Multiplayer Experience)
While Mario Kart 8 isn’t a traditional fighting game, its multiplayer chaos and competitive elements make it a fun addition to the Wii U library. It’s one of the best games for couch multiplayer, offering insane speed, fun power-ups, and various characters from the Mario universe. While not strictly a fighting game, Mario Kart 8 brings enough competitive energy to satisfy those who love playing against friends and family in a friendly battle for first place.
4. Tekken Tag Tournament 2: Wii U Edition
Tekken fans will be thrilled with Tekken Tag Tournament 2: Wii U Edition. This entry in the Tekken franchise brings the usual roster of characters, including some of the best fighters in video game history. What sets this version apart is the new Wii U-exclusive content, including special costumes and the addition of the tag-team mechanic, which allows players to swap between fighters mid-battle. The game supports both single-player and multiplayer modes, and its deep mechanics provide ample room for advanced tactics. It’s a must-have for any fighting game fan with a Wii U.
5. Super Smash Bros. Melee (via Virtual Console)
While originally released on the GameCube, Super Smash Bros. Melee can be downloaded and played on the Wii U through the Virtual Console. This is considered one of the best entries in the Super Smash Bros. series by many competitive players. It’s faster, more technical, and filled with techniques that have become staples in competitive Smash. The game’s tight controls, extensive roster, and addicting gameplay make it a must-play for fans of the series.
6. The Legend of Zelda: Hyrule Warriors
Hyrule Warriors may not be a typical fighting game, but it features intense battles with plenty of action and strategy. If you enjoy beat-’em-up style gameplay, this title is right up your alley. You’ll battle against hordes of enemies as your favorite Zelda characters, including Link, Zelda, and Midna. With numerous unlockable characters, weapons, and story content, Hyrule Warriors provides hours of combat-filled fun. It’s a great option for those looking for a different kind of fighting experience on the Wii U.
7. Street Fighter IV: 3D Edition
Street Fighter IV: 3D Edition is another great fighting game available for the Wii U. It offers all the high-quality Street Fighter gameplay that fans love, with 3D graphics that look fantastic on the system. Featuring iconic characters like Ryu, Ken, and Chun-Li, this edition offers an immersive experience with easy-to-learn controls and complex mechanics for advanced players. Whether you’re casually fighting your way through the game’s arcade mode or jumping into a head-to-head battle online, Street Fighter IV provides a solid competitive fighting game experience.
8. Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2
Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2 brings the chaotic, action-packed world of Dragon Ball Z to the Wii U in an incredible way. With fast-paced, explosive combat and a massive roster of characters, Xenoverse 2 allows players to battle in some of the most iconic settings from the Dragon Ball universe. The story mode lets players create their own custom characters and participate in time-traveling adventures to alter key moments from the series. The multiplayer modes are robust, making for intense one-on-one and team-based fighting. Xenoverse 2 offers a wealth of content, from the main story to side quests and tournaments.
9. Injustice: Gods Among Us
For those who want to fight with their favorite superheroes and villains, Injustice: Gods Among Us offers a thrilling alternative to traditional fighting games. Set in the DC Comics universe, this game allows players to control characters like Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, and the Joker in epic 2D battles. The fighting mechanics are tight and accessible, and the game’s story mode is engaging with a deep narrative that changes based on your choices. Injustice also features a strong online community, making it a great choice for competitive play.
10. Mortal Kombat X
Mortal Kombat X for the Wii U is a brutal and gore-filled entry in the legendary fighting game franchise. With a diverse roster of characters, including returning fan favorites like Scorpion and Sub-Zero, and a few new fighters, Mortal Kombat X delivers both excellent single-player modes and multiplayer online features. The game is known for its fatalities and brutal combat system, making it a great choice for players who enjoy a more hardcore fighting experience. Its deep mechanics and wide array of character customization options make Mortal Kombat X an unforgettable experience.
11. Street Fighter X Tekken
For fans of both Street Fighter and Tekken, Street Fighter X Tekken is the crossover fighting game that delivers the best of both worlds. This title brings together iconic characters from both franchises, allowing them to team up in tag-team battles. The gameplay is fast-paced and strategic, with each character having a unique set of moves and combos. Street Fighter X Tekken delivers hours of competitive gameplay, whether you’re playing locally or online.
12. WWE 2K14
For wrestling fans, WWE 2K14 offers a fighting game experience that focuses on the spectacle and drama of professional wrestling. While it might not have the deep mechanics of traditional fighting games, WWE 2K14 delivers over-the-top wrestling action, including special moves, grapples, and finishes. You can choose from a wide roster of WWE Superstars and Legends, including John Cena, The Rock, and Hulk Hogan. If you’re looking for fun combat with a bit of flair, WWE 2K14 is a great pick.
Conclusion
The Wii U may not have been the most popular console, but it certainly had a stellar lineup of fighting games that catered to all types of players. Whether you prefer the fast-paced brawls of Super Smash Bros., the intense combat of Pokkén Tournament, or the brutal finishers in Mortal Kombat X, the Wii U has something to offer. These 10+ fighting games are just a taste of the exciting experiences available on the system. Grab your controller and jump into the actionyou won’t be disappointed!
Meta Description: Discover the top 10+ Wii U fighting games money can buy, from Super Smash Bros. to Mortal Kombat X. Dive into epic battles and unforgettable gaming experiences!
Additional Experiences with Wii U Fighting Games
Playing Wii U fighting games isn’t just about the competitive actionit’s also about the memories and experiences you’ll create with friends and family. For me, one of the most unforgettable moments was having a Super Smash Bros. marathon with friends, where we’d swap characters every few rounds and try to beat each other with hilarious results. The game’s couch co-op mode is one of the best experiences for competitive yet lighthearted fun. Everyone, whether they’re casual gamers or fighting game enthusiasts, can jump in and enjoy.
Another standout experience was diving into Pokkén Tournament, which offers a completely different style of combat compared to traditional fighting games. The 3D arena and intense Pokémon battles felt like something fresh and exciting. I spent hours trying to master moves with Pikachu and Lucario, even discovering new techniques and combos that would give me the edge in online multiplayer. It’s an experience that’s fun both solo and with friends, offering a unique take on the fighting genre.
For fans of the Tekken series, playing Tekken Tag Tournament 2: Wii U Edition was a dream come true. The game’s deep mechanics and team-based battles were incredibly engaging. My favorite memory was mastering the tag-team combos, which allowed for some jaw-dropping sequences with characters like Kazuya and Jin. The game’s visual presentation was also top-notch, and it made the game feel like an arcade experience right in my living room.
Finally, who could forget the pure chaos of Mortal Kombat X? The game’s brutal fatalities and unique fighters provided endless entertainment. One of my favorite moments was pulling off a flawless victory with Sub-Zero, freezing my opponent in place and then executing a picture-perfect fatality. If you enjoy a challenge and don’t mind a little bit of gore, Mortal Kombat X is an absolute must-play on the Wii U.
In conclusion, the Wii U’s fighting game library has something for everyone, from casual players to hardcore enthusiasts. These games aren’t just fun to playthey also create lasting memories that you and your friends will treasure for years to come. So, pick up your controller, choose your fighter, and get ready for some epic battles!
