The Wii U (2012–2017) was Nintendo’s first console to fully embrace a hybrid retail/digital ecosystem. While its commercial performance was modest, its digital storefront—the Nintendo eShop—offered a diverse library of full retail games, digital-only titles (including indie games and Virtual Console classics), and downloadable content (DLC). As of March 27, 2023, Nintendo permanently closed the ability to purchase new content on the Wii U eShop, significantly altering access to its download games.
If you never bought digital games before the shutdown, your options are now physical discs or... alternative methods (discussed later). The age of buying fresh Wii U download games via official channels is over. Wii U Download Games
The Wii U download games ecosystem is now a frozen digital fossil. No new purchases, no sales, no demos. But for those who prepared, the library remains playable. Report: Wii U Download Games 1
However, if you already own Wii U download games, you can still: As of March 27, 2023, Nintendo permanently closed
However, the experience and insights gained from the Wii U era significantly influenced Nintendo's approach to digital distribution on its subsequent console, the Nintendo Switch. The Switch eShop, launched in 2017, built upon the foundations laid by the Wii U eShop, offering a more streamlined experience, a wider selection of games, and robust support for indie developers.
NES Remix (1 & 2): An experimental digital-first title that presents retro Nintendo challenges and "remixed" gameplay scenarios, making classic 8-bit games feel fresh again.