Although Nintendo struggled a bit with its Wii U console, the system continues to make impressive strides. Mario Kart 8 is one of the most popular games of the summer, and the publisher’s E3 2014 showcase last month left a lot of people impressed, even if most of the games aren’t slated to arrive until 2015.
Nevertheless, there are some great titles on the way. These 10 in particular may convince you to pick up a Wii U; we suggest buying the Mario Kart bundle.
Bayonetta 2 (2014)
Nintendo caught a lot of people off guard when it announced exclusive rights to Platinum Games’ Bayonetta sequel for Wii U. A little while ago, we got a chance to check out how it was progressing, and came away very impressed. The fast-paced beat-em-up action escalated to a higher level, with even larger beasts and more tricks for Bayonetta to execute. On top of that, the visuals look spectacular, and the soundtrack is right on par with what the first game delivered. This sequel looks bewitching, indeed.
StarFox (2015)
Although it’s still deep in development, it’s nice to see that Nintendo hasn’t given up on the StarFox franchise. A staple since the SNES days, StarFox is all about thrilling space action, whether you’re doing a barrel roll to deflect lasers or taking on Andross in a fight with the universe at stake. The forthcoming Wii U version should be the best one yet, with innovative controls, sharp visuals, and, of course, the potential to fly with or against fellow players in multiplayer. Last gamer has to play as Slippy Toad!
Kirby and the Rainbow Curse (2015)
Kirby and the Rainbow Curse isn’t your typical Kirby adventure. This spiritual successor to the DS game Canvas Curse has you directing the pink puffball, in ball form, across various paths by drawing a rainbow course for him on the Wii U touchpad. Although it’s different from Kirby’s usual platforming adventures, Rainbow Curse looks colorful and engaging enough to draw in both young and old players alike. It’s just a shame we have to wait so long for it.
Super Smash Bros. (2014)
We’d be fools if we didn’t express our excitement for Super Smash Bros. on the Wii U. This highly anticipated brawler will bring the best gameplay to date, along with a plethora of brawling superstars, including returning faces (Mario, Luigi, Peach, Sonic the Hedgehog) and newcomers (Pac-Man, Mega Man, Little Mac). The game will also include online fighting options galore, across both the Nintendo Network and via local connection with the forthcoming 3DS version. Oh, and did we mention how amazing it looks in HD? Watch the video above and enjoy.
Mario Maker (2015)
Have you ever played through the original Super Mario Bros. games (both the first one and The Lost Levels) and thought, “Hey, I could design a better level than this”? Well, now you can with the innovative Mario Maker. In this game, you’re able to design every aspect of your own custom Mario level, then share them with others (or check out creations from your friends). Expect plenty of challenges to be passed out when this one makes its eventual debut in 2015. Here we gooooooo!
Xenoblade Chronicles X (2015)
Originally known under its code name of “X” (yes, just “X”), Xenoblade Chronicles was officially confirmed for the Wii U this past month at E3, with Monolith Soft once again developing. As with the original Chronicles for Wii, X will contain an immense battle system that will make the most of every role-playing fight, along with an open-world design that lets you explore however you please. Plus, as you can see from the trailer above, the visuals and music are nothing short of magnificent. Don’t be surprised if this becomes a cult classic shortly following its release.
Hyrule Warriors (September 26, 2014)
Although this isn’t quite considered the next “true” Legend of Zelda game (Nintendo’s saving that for 2015, as you’ll see below), Hyrule Warriors appears to be a fantastic spin-off for the series. In it, you’ll guide Link or a number of other characters as they battle hundreds of enemies, Dynasty Warriors style, using a plethora of unique weapons and techniques to fend them off. This one may not have the depth of Link’s usual adventures, but it’ll certainly be fun.
Yoshi’s Woolly World (2015)
The creators of Kirby’s Epic Yarn have been quite busy since, ahem, spinning that Wii adventure years ago. Yoshi’s Woolly World takes a similar approach, with a world made from yarn and many interactive ways to get around it with our egg-shooting hero. You’ll be able to use his tongue to unravel new areas in each stage, as well as other gameplay techniques and an innovative presentation that will make the most of the Wii U. Expect this adventure to string you along when it arrives early next year.
Splatoon (2015)
Perhaps Nintendo’s biggest surprise at E3 last month was the introduction of a new competitive third-person shooter that does away with the theme of war in favor of a good old-fashioned game of paintball. In Splatoon, you’ll guide your team to victory by covering the terrain with as much paint as possible, while occasionally transforming into a squid to refill and dodge incoming attacks. With its inventive gameplay design and sharp presentation, this should be a huge favorite, especially if you can get a talented squad of painters together to clean house. Well, cover it in paint, rather.
The Legend of Zelda (2015)
Details were scarce when it came to Nintendo’s unveiling of the new Legend of Zelda game (not to be confused with the previously mentioned Hyrule Warriors), but our anticipation for it is still incredibly high. The mixture of adventurous gameplay with an exquisite new visual approach should make this the dreamiest looking Zelda to date. Plus, we can’t help but wonder…is this Link in the trailer, or perhaps a new hero waiting in the wings? Regardless, next year can’t come soon enough.
