Can you use Wii games and Wii controllers on a Wii U?

Yes, Wii disks work via Wii mode

The Wii You can play original Wii games on disc. Put a Wii disc in the Wii U and start the Wii mode; you will end up in a separate Wii environment. That's different than starting a Wii U game from the regular Wii U menu. A Wii U-disc does not work in an ordinary Wii. If you collect both kinds of games, that difference is important when looking at covers.

The Wii You have an HDMI output, so you can easily connect the console to many modern televisions. That doesn't make the older games suddenly HD games: they continue to look like Wii games, even though the signal goes via HDMI to the TV. For those looking for a practical connection, this can be a great advantage.

Which controller do you use for Wii games?

For Wii mode, use a synchronized Wii Remote. Depending on the game, you also need a Nunchuk, Classic Controller or Wii MotionPlus. The requirements of the specific game continue to apply when you insert the disc into a Wii U. So look at the back of the package before buying a loose game or controller.

The Wii U GamePad is not a replacement for a Wii Remote in a Wii game. With certain settings, you can display the Wii mode image on the GamePad screen, but you still operate the Wii menus and games with a Wii Remote. The GamePad has a built-in sensor bar for use with the Wii Remote when playing like this; when playing on the television, the connected sensor bar is convenient. Put the parts together before a purchase.

What about GameCube games or controllers?

A Wii You don't read GameCube disks. Also the four GameCube control ports and memory card slots of the first Wii are missing. There is a specific GameCube controller adapter for Super Smash Bros. for Wii U, but that doesn't make the Wii U a GameCube and doesn't change the support of GameCube disks.

Do you want to use Wii and GameCube disks on one device? Read our guide about the original Wii with model number RVL-001. If you're looking for your Wii U games next to your Wii collection and want to join via HDMI, then a Wii U fits better with that plan.

Check the set before you buy

Ask a used Wii U if the GamePad, Wii Remote, sensor bar, power supply and HDMI cable are included. Have a Wii disk actually start and check that the Wii Remote is responding. A photo of the console alone does not tell if all the parts are present for your favorite game. The short answer: yes, Wii games and many Wii accessories work on the Wii U, but bring the right controllers into your shopping list.