After the GameCube, Nintendo realized it couldn’t compete solely based on raw processing power in the gaming console market. Instead, they decided to take a different approach, leading to the creation of the Wii, which remains one of the most distinctive gaming consoles ever made.
This strategic shift positioned Nintendo firmly in the family-friendly gaming sector, focusing on offering fun and unique experiences over sheer gaming intensity. As a result, the number of games released for the Wii was lower than that of its competitors. However, the Wii’s game library was still robust, showcasing a variety of titles that each brought something special to the gaming experience.
How Many Games Were Released for the Wii?
During its time before being discontinued, the Wii supported a wide range of games, significantly more than the 700 games available on the GameCube. Though the Wii doesn’t come close to the 5,000 games found on the Switch, it still boasts a commendable library.
The total number of Wii games is somewhat variable due to the inclusion of Virtual Console titles and region-specific releases, but it typically falls between 1,600 and 1,700 titles. This is roughly 1,000 more games than its predecessor, marking a significant enhancement in both quantity and variety.
When Was the Last Game Released for the Wii?
Interestingly, the last title released for the Wii came after the official support for the console had ended in 2012, coinciding with the Wii U’s launch. While the Wii U was released in 2012, the last major game for the Wii hit shelves just two years prior, demonstrating the platform’s lasting appeal.
The final widely released game for the Wii was Just Dance 2020, which came out on November 5, 2019. However, two more titles, Retro City Rampage DX+ and Shakedown: Hawaii, were exclusives released in Europe on July 9, 2020, nearly 14 years after the Wii’s initial launch.
What Were the Launch Titles for the Wii?
In an effort to avoid the issues faced with the GameCube’s launch, which had just three games available at its Japanese release, the Wii made sure to establish a much more substantial library. Here are the launch dates for the Wii:
- Japan – December 2, 2006
- North America – November 19, 2006
- Europe – December 8, 2006
Each region offered a broad selection of games, many of which were exclusive for the first few months post-launch. The initial collections included 17 titles in Japan, 21 in North America, and 24 in Europe, showcasing a significant improvement in both the quantity and diversity of games available at launch.
