How to Play Wii Games on the Wii U

Wii U

In this article, you'll learn how to play Wii games on the Wii U.

Starting a Wii game will automatically launch the Wii Menu. Be sure to exit the Wii Menu before inserting a Wii U game again.
The ability to boot the Wii U directly into the Wii Menu was added with the system update released April 25th, 2013.

Complete these steps

Sync a Wii Remote with the Wii U console.
Launch Wii Mode by performing the following:
- From a disc: If you have entered a Wii disc into your Wii U, launch the software as normal.
- From the icon: If you are not launching software from a disc, scroll to the Wii Menu icon located on the Wii U Menu and press A.
Use the Wii Remote to select Wii Menu by pointing the Wii Remote at the screen, hovering the hand icon over Wii Menu, and pressing the A Button.
- If the latest system update has been applied, you can select either TV Only or TV & GamePad depending on which device you would like to use as a display.
  - You must use the Wii Remote that is set as player one to perform this action. If needed, you can change the order of controllers synced with the Wii U console.
  - If you have not yet sync'd a Wii Remote with the Wii U Console, you will be prompted to sync one. Follow the on-screen instructions.
  - If the hand icon does not appear, our Wii remote cursor troubleshooting may be helpful.
Once Wii Mode launches, use the Wii Remote to launch the disc or channel that you would like to access.
- If you would like information on transferring Wii content to your Wii U, our information on transferring your content may be helpful.