10 Wii Era Games That Could Thrive On Switch 2

During the period known as the Wii era, Nintendo thrived, earning immense profits from record-breaking sales and expanding its loyal fanbase. Yet, this era also had moments where certain games didn’t receive the attention or recognition they truly deserved.

Prior to Nintendo granting access to third-party developers, most games available for the Wii were either produced by Nintendo itself (first-party) or developed in collaboration with other companies (second-party). Many of these games fell under the categories of humorous sports, social gatherings, or experimental titles.

However, if you diligently search for the unique and lesser-known items, you might just find some exceptional finds that haven’t been released on the Nintendo Switch yet. There are quite a few hidden gems waiting to be discovered!

So now, we’ll cover several of them that could be amazing on the new Switch 2!

10.
Spectrobes: Origins

Fossilized Monster Catcher

Platform Wii
Publisher Disney Interactive Studios
Genre ARPG, Monster Catcher
Release Date August 18, 2009

For a while, I grew weary of the Pokemon series and craved something original and innovative. That’s exactly what I found when Jupiter and Disney Interactive Studios debuted the Spectrobes games on the Nintendo DS.

In this game, you unearth fossils using a stylus, which transform into monsters that join your squad. Subsequently, these creatures can be deployed for combat, with the option of participating personally as well.

Despite its simplicity, it boasted charming characters and a reasonable storyline. Given that they upgraded the graphics significantly when transferring the series to the Wii, one would expect a home run.

However, it appears that the transition from stylus controls and the switch to a larger console, along with the game being created by Genki rather than Jupiter, seemed to drive away some enthusiasts.

Despite all the points made, Spectrobes: Origins remains an entertaining monster-catching game that likely hasn’t crossed many gamers’ radars, let alone been played by them. A high-definition update on a fresh console platform, accompanied by contemporary controls, could certainly enhance its appeal.

9.
Fire Emblem: Radiant Dawn

Dawn of a Hardcore Era

Following the initial release of “Fire Emblem” in the United States for the Game Boy Advance, they opted for larger-scale productions on consoles. One such adventure was titled “Fire Emblem: Radiant Dawn”.

The game boasts an attractive visual design and an engaging narrative focusing on rebels, humans as well as Laguz. However, its level of difficulty is notable to the extent that seasoned Fire Emblem enthusiasts may find it challenging.

Fire Emblem: Radiant Dawn isn’t something that discourages me, but rather encourages it, to be ported to a modern console. They could preserve the existing graphics, perhaps with a touch of refinement, and introduce additional challenge levels for a more balanced gameplay.

Beyond showcasing some modern elements that have gained popularity in recent installments, such as the ability to rewind time during combat, it’s reasonable to assume they could pull off a comparable feat given their outstanding work on Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia. In simpler terms, they’ve proven their skills before, so why not now?

8.
The House of the Dead: Overkill

Zombie Grindhouse

Reminiscing about my gaming past, I can’t help but fondly recall those days spent at the arcade, playing The House of the Dead series. When they released The House of the Dead: Overkill on the Wii, it brought back a wave of excitement that I hadn’t felt in a long time.

The game is an exaggerated, gory satire of its genre, yet it’s presented in a manner that makes it feel like a heartfelt tribute to classic arcade shooters.

I understand that adjustments might need to be made for the game to function without using Wiimote controls, but I don’t view this as an issue since the game itself is quite strong. It offers good replayability and its multiplayer aspect is excellent.

Why keep it lost in the Wii era when it can shine on modern consoles?

7.
Metroid: Other M

Team Ninja in Space

As a devoted fan, I must admit that Metroid: Other M received quite a bit of criticism upon its release, and with good reason. While I appreciate the efforts by Team Ninja, the narrative and character portrayal of Samus felt somewhat disjointed from the traditional Metroid lore.

But you know what was still incredibly fun in Metroid: Other M? The actual gameplay.

This game transformed Samus’ escapades into an immersive, on-rails, almost 3D experience, boasting breathtaking visuals and intense action sequences.

In other words, you’ll find exciting discoveries, nerve-wracking enemy encounters, and satisfying fighting sequences in this game. While Other M may not be the most authentic representation of the series, it remains an enjoyable experience that is unique to its platform.

6.
MadWorld

Black, White, and Red All Over

Let me just establish from the get-go that MadWorld is out of its mind.

This creation seems to be a blend of the offspring between Travis Touchdown and Sin City. It’s both brutal and funny, leaving you fulfilled. Given its nature, it should be available beyond just the Wii console.

Being a longtime enthusiast of Nintendo, I’m accustomed to games that are more suitable for children. Therefore, when I began noticing their ventures into more mature titles, my curiosity was piqued and I found myself eagerly immersing myself in them.

The only real complaint I have about MadWorld is that it’s too short.

Perhaps they might decide to enhance it with a high-definition remaster, introduce additional content as downloadable packs, and extend Jack’s thrilling adventures amidst the chaotic Death Watch.

5.
Rayman Origins

The Origin of the Species

Prior to playing Rayman Origins, my familiarity with the series was limited to trying out a single demo at a public gathering. Consequently, I wasn’t sure if I enjoyed the series or not. However, that perception shifted significantly following its release on the Wii.

Besides being visually stylish, Rayman Origins also offers fast-moving gameplay centered around precise platform navigation, a aspect that I find appealing.

Additionally, it boasted vibrant storylines and numerous imaginative realms to delve into, as well as a wealth of opportunities for repeated play due to its vast array of collectible items.

My sole issue with “Rayman Origins” is that the sequel, “Rayman Legends,” fell short of my expectations and left me feeling quite let down.

If you’re fond of platform games, whether you prefer playing alone or with companions, you’ll surely enjoy experiencing Origins on a contemporary gaming system.

4.
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess

Link’s Goth Adventure

As an ardent admirer, I can’t help but express my excitement about revisiting the enchanting world of Twilight Princess HD, even though it’s been nearly a decade since its initial release.

As Nintendo has announced that “Wind Waker” will be coming to the Switch 2, it would be fantastic if they also considered adding “Twilight Princess,” either the original version or the remake, to the lineup as well.

It was just a refreshing change of pace, with the darker themes and moody visual style.

Not to mention Link’s ability to transform into a wolf, as well as his new buddy Midna.

Even if you’re not deeply invested in the world of The Legend of Zelda, I believe there’s something captivating about this unconventional narrative that would appeal to you.

3.
Pandora’s Tower

The Power of Love

Perhaps you’re familiar with the series of three games known as Operation Rainfall, which finally made their way across the ocean following a persistent advocacy effort.

Everyone recognizes Xenoblade Chronicles, a game that eventually became extremely popular. However, another game that really should get more attention is Pandora’s Tower.

The game showcases an incredibly emotional tale that demonstrates the lengths one would take to rescue a cherished person, which in this case is Aeron’s mission to break a harmful spell over Elena before it’s no longer possible.

Speaking something is simpler compared to actually doing it, as he must climb the perilous tower and gather Master Flesh from the monstrous creatures residing there.

Despite the complexity of translating the fight scene, given its unique control system using Wiimotes and dual weapons, I believe we can find a way to overcome this obstacle.

A memorable adventure, but we still have two excellent Wii games left!

2.
Silent Hill: Shattered Memories

Frigid Terror

Platform Wii
Publisher Konami
Genre Survival Horror
Release Date December 8, 2009

To begin with, I should mention that I’m among those individuals who, despite being gamers, are still petrified by survival horror games. In spite of this fear, I find myself irresistibly attracted to the genre. This is why I ended up playing Silent Hill: Shattered Memories.

The chilling and perplexing saga of Silent Hill has long been renowned. However, Shattered Memories managed to push boundaries that had previously remained uncharted.

For one thing, the monsters in this game learn from your behavior and act accordingly.

The challenging part is, you don’t have the option to confront or eliminate them directly. Instead, you must evade them and devise strategies to dissuade them from pursuing you.

Incorporate a tale of a frantic father on a relentless quest to find his lost child, coupled with a world encapsulated by an icy freeze, and that’s a sure hit. However, we’ve reserved the most remarkable aspect for the finale.

1.
Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All-Stars

Epic Mash Up

Platform Wii
Publisher Capcom
Genre Fighting Game
Release Date December 11, 2008

As I grow older, my interest in playing fighting games wanes. However, an exceptional game can not only catch my interest, but keep it captivated for long periods. One such game was “Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All-Stars“.

This game offers an extensive selection of characters to choose from, encompassing diverse figures such as Viewtiful Joe, Zero, Frank West, Ken the Eagle, Tekkaman Blade, and Yatterman-2. Quirky and unique, they provide a broad array of options.

It’s quite interesting that you have the option to field two smaller combatants working together against enemies, or a single larger one.

OR

It’s intriguing that you can choose to deploy two smaller characters for a tag-team strategy, or a single powerful character in battle.

What’s particularly great about this game is its intuitive control system with just three main buttons, making it easier for players of various skill levels to enjoy.

Despite the fact that it remains unclear as to why Capcom hasn’t yet ported the classic game, Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All-Stars, to a contemporary console, there’s hope that they will rectify this in the future with a release on the Switch 2.

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2025-05-15 00:40