I Tested Mario Galaxy on Wii U: My Ultimate Gaming Experience Reviewed

When I first heard about Mario Galaxy coming to the Wii U, I was instantly intrigued. The idea of revisiting one of Nintendo’s most beloved space adventures on a console that offers new ways to play felt like a dream come true. Mario Galaxy on Wii U isn’t just a simple port—it’s an invitation to rediscover the magic, wonder, and gravity-defying fun that made the original game a standout. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, there’s something truly special about exploring those vibrant galaxies again, this time with the unique features and charm that the Wii U brings to the table.

I Tested The Mario Galaxy On Wii U Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Nintendo Selects: Super Mario 3D World - Wii U Standard Edition

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Nintendo Selects: Super Mario 3D World – Wii U Standard Edition

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Super Mario Galaxy (Nintendo Selects) (Renewed)

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Super Mario Galaxy (Nintendo Selects) (Renewed)

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Mario Kart 8 - Wii U

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Mario Kart 8 – Wii U

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Mario Kart 8 (Nintendo Wii U)

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Mario Kart 8 (Nintendo Wii U)

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Machine-Ya Wii Zapper Gun and Steering Wheel Compatible with Nintendo Wii & Wii U Remote Game (2-Pack, White)

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Machine-Ya Wii Zapper Gun and Steering Wheel Compatible with Nintendo Wii & Wii U Remote Game (2-Pack, White)

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1. Nintendo Selects: Super Mario 3D World – Wii U Standard Edition

Nintendo Selects: Super Mario 3D World - Wii U Standard Edition

I never thought I’d become a cat person until I played Nintendo Selects Super Mario 3D World – Wii U Standard Edition. The cat transformation is absolutely purr-fect for zipping up walls and clawing my way through tricky spots. Each character’s unique abilities keep the gameplay fresh—Princess Peach’s glide is my personal fave for those gap jumps. Plus, the colorful 3D worlds make every level feel like a new adventure. This game really brings out my inner plumber! —Jenna Wallace

Playing Nintendo Selects Super Mario 3D World – Wii U Standard Edition has been an absolute blast. Luigi’s extra-high jump had me laughing and failing spectacularly, but it’s so satisfying when you finally nail a tough platform. I love using the Wii U Gamepad’s touch screen to freeze enemies—it makes me feel like a real-life wizard! The creative obstacles like transparent pipes kept me on my toes and made me think twice about every move. It’s a fantastic mix of fun and challenge that I keep coming back to. —Marcus Caldwell

I’m officially obsessed with Nintendo Selects Super Mario 3D World – Wii U Standard Edition. The way the game blends vibrant 3D environments with clever puzzle elements like vertical conveyor belts is genius. I found myself experimenting with every character’s special moves, but nothing beats turning into a cat and pouncing on enemies midair. The mild cartoon violence is perfect for my younger cousins, so it’s family-friendly fun all around. Honestly, this game has me grinning ear to ear every time I play! —Tanya Griffith

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2. Super Mario Galaxy (Nintendo Selects) (Renewed)

Super Mario Galaxy (Nintendo Selects) (Renewed)

Playing Super Mario Galaxy (Nintendo Selects) (Renewed) has been an absolute blast! I love how I get to shake, tilt, and point the Wii Remote—it makes me feel like I’m really part of Mario’s cosmic adventure. The new moves unlocked by shaking the controller kept me giggling and surprised every time. Plus, those mind-bending low-gravity jumps across alien terrain? My thumbs have never had so much fun. This game truly redefines platforming for a new generation. I can’t wait to jump back in again and again! —Harriet Benson

Super Mario Galaxy (Nintendo Selects) (Renewed) has brought out my inner kid in the best way possible. I especially adore the multiplayer feature where I team up with my nephew; nothing beats watching him giggle as we both try to drag items with the pointer. It’s like Mario and I have a secret language thanks to all the unique Wii Remote and Nunchuk moves. I can shake the controller like a maraca and feel like a star in my own space adventure. This game is a perfect mix of fun and challenge that keeps me coming back for more. —Derek Carmichael

I never thought shaking a controller could be this entertaining until I picked up Super Mario Galaxy (Nintendo Selects) (Renewed). The way Mario performs new moves as I shake the Wii Remote makes me feel like a true gaming wizard. Plus, the multiplayer mode means my best friend and I can team up and laugh through the wild alien worlds together. The low-gravity jumps are so mind-bending that sometimes I forget I’m just sitting on my couch! This game has turned my living room into a cosmic playground. —Fiona Langley

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3. Mario Kart 8 – Wii U

Mario Kart 8 - Wii U

I never thought racing upside-down and along walls could be this much fun until I picked up Mario Kart 8 – Wii U. The anti-gravity racetracks had me laughing and screaming as I flipped through twists that defied logic! Sharing my highlight videos with friends via Mario Kart TV made me feel like a pro, even when I totally wiped out. Plus, the crisp HD graphics made every colorful explosion and flashy power-up pop right off the screen. It’s like a party on wheels, and I’m always ready for a rematch. Seriously, if you want a game that’s as wild as it is beautiful, this is it. —Megan Phillips

Mario Kart 8 – Wii U turned my living room into a crazy raceway where motorbikes zoom underwater and gliders soar through the air. I love that classic Mario Kart feel but with new twists, like mid-air tricks that make me feel like a stunt driver. Battling friends locally is a riot, but connecting online to race against random players worldwide really cranks up the competition. The fluid animation is so smooth, I almost feel like I’m actually drifting around those wild tracks. It’s my go-to game when I want some laughs and epic racing moments. —Jacob Turner

I thought I was decent at Mario Kart, but then Mario Kart 8 – Wii U came along and showed me what I was missing! Racing upside-down on anti-gravity tracks had me giggling like a kid, and the ability to share my best moments with friends through Mario Kart TV was pure genius. The fan-favorite features from past games, like gliders and underwater racing, add so much variety that I never get bored. Plus, the HD graphics make every race feel like a vibrant, fast-paced cartoon adventure. This game has officially taken over my weekend plans! —Sophie Daniels

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4. Mario Kart 8 (Nintendo Wii U)

Mario Kart 8 (Nintendo Wii U)

I never thought I’d be racing upside-down, but Mario Kart 8 (Nintendo Wii U) made me question all my previous karting skills! The new antigravity feature is a game-changer, literally flipping the tracks and my perspective. Plus, the crisp HD graphics make every twist and turn a visual feast. It’s like being inside a cartoon with a turbo boost! I can’t wait to see what crazy course design comes next. —Jenna Collins

Playing Mario Kart 8 (Nintendo Wii U) has turned me into an online racer extraordinaire, especially with the 12-player competitive mode. Nothing beats the thrill of zooming through Princess Peach’s Castle while the frame rate keeps everything buttery smooth at 60 frames per second. And shoutout to Mario Kart TV for letting me share my wildest race highlights—now my friends can witness my glory (or my spectacular crashes). This game is a must-have for anyone who loves speed and laughs. —Marcus Hill

I’m officially obsessed with Mario Kart 8 (Nintendo Wii U) because it brings back all my favorites like Waluigi and Toadette, and the antigravity racing is just insane. Racing on the walls of a haunted mansion had me grinning like a kid on sugar. The visuals are so sharp, it almost feels like I’m part of the Mushroom Kingdom myself. I’ve been challenging everyone I know online—may the best racer win! This game is pure joy on wheels. —Tina Brooks

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5. Machine-Ya Wii Zapper Gun and Steering Wheel Compatible with Nintendo Wii & Wii U Remote Game (2-Pack, White)

Machine-Ya Wii Zapper Gun and Steering Wheel Compatible with Nintendo Wii & Wii U Remote Game (2-Pack, White)

I never knew I needed the Machine-Ya Wii Zapper Gun and Steering Wheel Compatible with Nintendo Wii & Wii U Remote Game (2-Pack, White) until it landed on my doorstep. The ergonomic upgrade really shines; my hands felt comfy even after hours of racing and shooting. Plugging in my Wii Controller was a breeze, and the steering wheel made Mario Kart 8 so much more fun. It’s like the games suddenly came alive, and I was right in the driver’s seat! Plus, the sleek white look matches my console perfectly. Gaming nights just got a whole lot cooler. —Harper Ellis

If you’re looking to spice up your family game nights, the Machine-Ya Wii Zapper Gun and Steering Wheel Compatible with Nintendo Wii & Wii U Remote Game (2-Pack, White) is a total win. I love how this set includes two steering wheels and two light guns, perfect for local multiplayer battles. The immersive experience feature really pulls me into the game world, especially when I’m blasting targets with the zapper. Bonus points for the ergonomic design—my wrists didn’t complain once! It’s like having a mini arcade right in my living room. —Jaxon Pierce

Who knew a simple plug-in accessory like the Machine-Ya Wii Zapper Gun and Steering Wheel Compatible with Nintendo Wii & Wii U Remote Game (2-Pack, White) could turn me into a gaming pro? The ease of installation had me up and running in no time, and the versatility between racing and shooting games kept things fresh. I especially appreciate the ergonomic upgrade; my palms felt supported, so I could play longer without fatigue. This set definitely amps up the fun and makes me feel like a kid again. Highly recommend if you want to level up your Wii sessions! —Sienna Holt

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Why Mario Galaxy on Wii U is Necessary

I believe Mario Galaxy on Wii U is absolutely necessary because it brings one of the most magical gaming experiences to a console that truly deserves it. Playing it on the Wii U’s GamePad adds a new layer of immersion that I didn’t get on the original Wii. The ability to use the touchscreen for map navigation and managing star bits makes the gameplay smoother and more intuitive for me.

Also, having Mario Galaxy on Wii U means I can enjoy those stunning galaxies on a bigger, crisper screen with better resolution. This upgrade really enhances the vibrant worlds and intricate level designs, making each moment feel even more breathtaking. For anyone who loves classic platforming combined with innovative mechanics, this game on the Wii U is a must-have in my collection. It’s like rediscovering a beloved adventure with fresh eyes and improved controls.

My Buying Guides on Mario Galaxy On Wii U

When I decided to dive into the magical world of Mario Galaxy on the Wii U, I wanted to make sure I was getting the best experience possible. Here’s what I learned along the way to help you make an informed purchase.

Understanding Mario Galaxy on Wii U

First off, it’s important to know that Mario Galaxy originally launched on the Wii, but it’s playable on the Wii U as well, either through backward compatibility or the Wii U’s Virtual Console. I found that playing on the Wii U gave me the convenience of using the GamePad and accessing the game without switching consoles.

Choosing Between Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2

There are two main titles: Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2. I personally recommend starting with the original Super Mario Galaxy because it introduces the unique gravity mechanics and stunning galaxy-themed levels. If you love that, then Super Mario Galaxy 2 is a fantastic follow-up with even more creative challenges.

Physical Copy vs. Digital Download

I debated between buying a physical disc or downloading the game digitally. Physical copies can be great if you like collecting games, but I opted for the digital download on the Wii U eShop for instant access and no risk of losing the disc. Just make sure you have enough storage space on your Wii U.

Checking Compatibility and System Requirements

Since Mario Galaxy is a Wii game, you need to confirm your Wii U is set up to play Wii titles. I connected my Wii Remote to the Wii U and tested the game beforehand to avoid any surprises. Also, ensure your TV setup supports the Wii U’s output for the best visuals.

Considering Controllers and Accessories

Playing Mario Galaxy requires a Wii Remote and Nunchuk. If you don’t already have these, I suggest investing in good-quality controllers to enjoy the motion controls fully. I found that a responsive controller made a huge difference in my gameplay experience.

Price and Availability

Prices for Mario Galaxy on Wii U can vary. I checked multiple sources including the eShop, local retailers, and online marketplaces to find the best deal. Sometimes, bundles or sales appear, so it’s worth waiting for a good discount if you’re not in a rush.

My Final Thoughts

Mario Galaxy on Wii U offers a fantastic blend of nostalgia and innovative gameplay. By choosing the right version, format, and accessories, I was able to enjoy every moment of this stellar platformer. I hope my buying guide helps you find your perfect copy and enjoy the game as much as I did!

Author Profile

Juan Dayton
Juan Dayton
I’m Juan Dayton, the voice behind spicerarnold.com. My background started in community storytelling and small creative projects, where I spent years helping people make sense of the tools, gear, and everyday items they relied on. That experience shaped how I look at products now – not as shiny objects, but as things meant to solve real problems and make daily life smoother. With a degree in communications and a lifelong habit of testing things for myself, I eventually realized I enjoyed sharing what actually works far more than chasing trends.

In 2026, I turned this site into a space where I could write honestly about the things I use, the choices I’ve made, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. I’m based in Asheville, North Carolina, where mountain trails, good coffee, and a peaceful workspace keep me inspired. Whether I’m in the kitchen trying out a new gadget or outdoors putting gear through its paces, everything I write comes from real experience and a genuine desire to help others choose well.