Nintendo Switch vs. Wii U - Review | Neander Meander

A look at the differences between the Switch and the Wii U. What really separates these two consoles? A review of both the Switch and the Wii U.

[@ianeons9278]

The GameCube and Wii U are the best consoles because Nintendo tries really hard in times of failure.

[@NeanderMeander]

It’s very interesting that both the GameCube and Wii U failed. Both are amazing! It’s too bad that people didn’t give them a chance.

[@dustyk01]

@@NeanderMeander i didnt knew gamecube is a failure i loved it so much :D

[@ZeldaVerde]

You mean the games? Because they can't change the console much after it's release...

[@jamesmylife6578]

The GameCube didn’t fail I can’t say the same for the Wii U

[@dustyk01]

@Hip Tripp oh didnt knew thx !

[@ianeons9278]

Wii U will be remembered like the DreamCast and GameCube,our fallen heroes!

[@NeanderMeander]

It absolutely will! It really is a solid console.

[@Lalapopsy]

Except the DreamCast killed Sega.

[@alface935]

@@NeanderMeander Exact

[@alexstudieshistory5823]

Lallapoopsy Lallapoopsy Lallapoopsy Incorrect. The Sega Dreamcast was probably their one and true masterpiece. Sega started going downhill since the Sega CD/32x/Saturn, way before the Dreamcast was even a concept. Mostly due to internal conflicts between Sega of America and Sega of Japan. At the time, the Dreamcast had the best launch of any console in history, and it was in fact a revolutionary console. Sega was facing bankruptcy at the time. The Dreamcast was their last hope, but not what “killed” Sega. Get your “facts” straight.

[@Lalapopsy]

@@alexstudieshistory5823 ...and the Dreamcast was what killed them. It wasn't the sole reason for their downfall, but it was the final nail in the coffin.

[@Mido-ro7oi]

How the f*** does this guy have only 90 subs excellent quality amazing video the comparison was just so amazing and over all the video had no flaws I am definitely subbing

[@mamont12]

Think the same)) Really nice video, enjoy it a lot)

[@NeanderMeander]

Thanks!

[@ross3695_basedhax]

18.1k now xD

[@typeterson9544]

The Wii U never failed in my heart

[@DINKLEBERG12]

Same

[@nintendoplaystationandxbox1088]

Same I love my switch but the wii u was never a failure

[@Tyler_Persad]

@@nintendoplaystationandxbox1088 ikr

[@millenniumstreamer]

I just got both a switch and a wii u. I agree the wii u is a very underated console

[@Tyler_Persad]

@@millenniumstreamer yep

[@Trey109]

The Wii U is definitely one of my favorite Nintendo consoles. I remember getting it for Christmas in 2015 and playing Mario Kart 8, 3d World, Smash 4, and Nintendo Land on it. Great times. (:

[@NeanderMeander]

Those were great years. Back then, it felt like you were in an exclusive club by owning a Wii U. It was and still is very misunderstood.

[@catguy4996]

"The Wii U is obsolete- the Switch is literally a Wii U but better" Yes, but actually no. Can the Switch allow you to use 2 screens at once? No! That's what I miss about the Wii U. It was very revolutionary to me. A giant, 1080p DS. (Could've even called it an HDS). It had a lot of potential and Nintendo threw it away. I'm still bitter. I only play my Switch on TV mode these days, so I don't have much use for the portable feature. It's too fragile to take on the go anyway

[@NeanderMeander]

I love the dual screens feature of the Wii U. You’re right, it was like having a giant DS! Playing Wind Waker with the map and items on the Gamepad is awesome. It made it feel like the Wii U and 3DS complimented each other better than any other home console and portable era of Nintendo. I think most people who criticize the Wii U and Gamepad really didn’t play it, or had very little playtime on it. The few people I knew who had one loved it. Me included! I might be bitter too. The Switch is a good console. But it doesn’t raise the bar like the Wii U did. I take mine on the go often. It feels big and clunky compared to my sleek foldable 3DS. That was a true portable system. I miss the days when Nintendo designed a console for the home and another for on the go. They focused on what each strengths were and delivered time and time again. This bringing both worlds into one console is a neat idea that short changes both. That being said, I like the Switch, just not as much add the Wii U.

[@maxwellsmith5627]

The wii u also has actually good controllers

[@dr.boring7022]

The Wii U is a fantastic console. I bought one recently, and my only issues with it were the battery life of the gamepad. It only lasts 2 hours before needing to be charged.... Which yeah, 2 hours is a while, but I needed something longer. I don't fault the Wii U itself tho, maybe the battery is just worn out, so I ended up buying a newer battery. Overall a great console. Because of it I don't see much use in getting a Switch yet

[@ZeldaVerde]

The switch is so fragile and definitely not ergonomic, the Wii U gamepad is way better. Also, I don't think the wii u was a prototype for the switch, it only had a different idea, it is like a 3ds. The majority of people who complain about the Wii U never had one! I also like how the Wii U looks and it's menu, e-shop, etc.

[@splegoon4289]

People are just saying the WiiU is bad because some popular person on the internet said so.

[@maxwellsmith5627]

I completely agree.

[@tristanmason06]

I thought you had over 500,000 subscribers, the quality was so good

[@NeanderMeander]

Thanks! Thank you for watching!

[@DINKLEBERG12]

@@NeanderMeander it really is keep it up man

[@Nickk7878-v8t]

I personally prefer the Wii U. The controller is better, not to mention that it doesn’t have “joy-con drift” or lag or any hardware issues whatsoever and is much more comfortable. The games are also much more creative with the Wii U. On the Switch, they are just coping the Wii U too often with some of the original titles being a bit lackluster, like Kirby, Yoshi, and 1 2 Switch to list a few. That’s not even mentioning the exquisite virtual console selection or how good some of the exclusive features were like Miiverse, creating active communities in many games giving games so much more of a personality. Also, I don’t have to pay for online. But hey, if you all prefer the Switch, I’m perfectly okay with that.

[@NeanderMeander]

I totally agree with everything you’ve written here! It is well written and really highlights how great the Wii U is. I’m happy to see there are so many people that appreciate the Wii U! Joy-con drift has been a worry of mine since I bought a Switch. So far I haven’t had it happen, but who knows what the future holds. Some of the Switch releases are definitely inspired by Wii U games. The lack of a virtual console has always bothered me! The Switch Online Service doesn’t even come close to the Wii U VC!

[@hyhoops1080]

the switch legit does everything that the wii u does just better lmao

[@smurf5320]

@@hyhoops1080 not for me

[@ProjectWoxck]

Wii u has 2 cod games Switch NONE

[@devenirdelostiempos]

My Gamepad broke twice.

[@ianeons9278]

I'm surprised this video doesn't have 10Mil views,It is why the Switch is the final product,but Wii U is better in terms of overall quality.

[@NeanderMeander]

Thanks for watching!

[@raptorzeraora2632]

No, not really

[@Tyler_Persad]

@@raptorzeraora2632 wiiu fat loll

[@cyndawu1940]

Without the Wii U, Nintendo wouldn't have came up the idea of the Nintendo Switch. The Wii U had some cool unique ideas, like Miiverse, games that utilize the gamepad touch screen like Nintendo Land and Super Mario 3D World, has a silly camera which is used in some games, can be used as a TV remote for some reason, introduces amiibo, calm menu screen and a good looking eshop with music. I miss the Wii U era so much. Nintendo Switch is amazing, of course. But I am sad that some ideas are not carried over to the Nintendo switch

[@maxwellsmith5627]

The wii u was never meant to be a handheld, so it was not a stepping stone for the switch.

[@L0dw1G.Foxtra]

If you have a 3ds and a WiiU its basically like having a nintendo switch

[@NeanderMeander]

I had this combo going for a long time. I have no complaints about the Wii U or 3DS. However, I will say that being able to play current home console games on the go is great! Thank goodness I don't have to choose between any of these, because I really like them all!

[@goombagang5080]

@Ludwig No.

[@L0dw1G.Foxtra]

@@goombagang5080 ok

[@UChS4Dq15wHu8vkvWsaLzvPg]

@@L0dw1G.Foxtra No.

[@L0dw1G.Foxtra]

@@UChS4Dq15wHu8vkvWsaLzvPg ok

[@hAze_the_shrimp]

I remember as a kid, I wanted a wii u terribly after seeing all the games it had like mario kart 8. However, my parents were against it big time and I was so confused as to why. I had to go so far as to get straight A's just for them to consider it. Years later, I understand now why they were so hesitant in getting me another wii.

[@NeanderMeander]

This us a great story! The confusion was very real

[@RENBA_XL]

Same story but with the 3DS

[@Solid_Snack]

Same with the PSP vita. Should have been called psp 2

[@Nickk7878-v8t]

Great video! I really liked the lighting and camera work. It feels this came from a very high quality and popular channel and I was very surprised that you had less than 100 subscribers. I will definitely be subscribing to view more of this high quality content!

[@NeanderMeander]

Thank you so much for watching! I really appreciate it!

[@Kyle_v2]

as someone said in the comments, i prefer the wii u. I love the game pad and the fact that it is not only backwards compatible but emulates the last console entirely is awesome to me. I also like the fact that you can emulate all of the Nintendo games right off of it from any hand held or console they made although i never used this feature as i didn't know it existed.

[@NeanderMeander]

I'm a big fan the Wii U too! It's a really great console. The Gamepad is also one of the best controllers Nintendo has ever made.

[@13Ucube]

This is an excellent video. I was a KZbin who always loved my purchase and you gave this comparison a fair and well-made review. Thank you!

[@NeanderMeander]

Thanks for watching! I'm glad you liked the video!

[@phalanxHH]

I know I will get killed for saying this but. I like the Wii U more and I bought it after I bought a Switch.

[@raidexe]

I bought the switch last year in August, and honestly, I'm considering buying a Wii U now, the switch is boring to me besides some exclusive games (and I do live the switch pro controller). When I play the switch I feel empty and unhappy, Nintendo was more in their prime a long time ago.

[@NeanderMeander]

I think they are both great consoles! I have a soft spot for the Wii U because I picked it up early and enjoyed every new release we got for it. But I think people believe they have to choose between them. I honestly like both.

[@maxwellsmith5627]

I still love my switch, but me too.

[@Anonymous-Lmfao]

@@raidexeI have a Wii U and my friend keeps nagging me about how I should have gotten a Nintendo instead and wasted my money on the Wii U so it’s rlly beating me up

[@raidexe]

@@Anonymous-Lmfao tbh I don’t think it’s a waste because it was prime part of gaming history, I think being able to have old and new consoles is the best way to game 👍🏻👍🏻

[@nsgames24]

Wii U's my all-time favorite Nintendo console and it still holds that title in my heart, to this day!

[@NeanderMeander]

I love the Wii U! It's so tragic it was so misunderstood. I still play mine quite often. What's your favorite Wii U game?

[@BigSmokeMUFC]

Same.

[@nsgames24]

@@NeanderMeander I guess Smash 4 if I had to pick

[@johnjustice8976]

Mario Kart 8 and Bayonetta 2

[@wrex1285]

I’ve always thought Wii U was so much better and fun. Like compare the home screens there barely any life in the Switches... And the Gamepad was so underrated in my opinion i always had a blast with it and made playing games like Mario Maker much simpler

[@NeanderMeander]

Nice insight! Mario Maker was definitely more simple on this Wii U. The gamepad is so awesome! It's unbelievably comfortable!

[@TrickyPJM752]

This video was made very well, how do you not even have 15,000 subs?

[@NeanderMeander]

Thank you so much! It’s growing slowly. I’m just happy people are enjoying my videos.

[@Rage_BX]

Honestly, I never thought the wii u wasn’t bad, I always loved it

[@NeanderMeander]

Me too. I've always liked the Wii U. I'm not sure why people who hadn't ever touched one judged it so badly.

[@Rage_BX]

Yep

[@Poosaycvm]

This is an amazingly made video, I was surprised that you only had 300 subscribers, you should have more!

[@NeanderMeander]

Thank you so much!

[@woodrowwilson4126]

@@NeanderMeander you better reach 1m subs.

[@TheRabidRabbid]

Thing is, I don’t think the Switch matches the Wii U’s ui. At all. The Wii U has a certain magic and charm that the Wii also had, while the Switch feels just… corporate. Some people might prefer that because it’s much more minimalistic. But in my opinion it doesn’t stand out from the Xbox or PlayStation like the WiiU did, it just blends in.

[@NeanderMeander]

I agree completely! It's really bland compared to the Wii and Wii U. Whenever I turn on either of those systems, or even the 3DS, the background music is so inviting. It makes me want to play more games.

[@TheRabidRabbid]

@@NeanderMeander YESSSS EXACTLY!!! Because of that, I just ended up making my 3ds my primary system of choice and my WiiU my secondary while almost never preferring the Switch, even though it’s got much more graphically impressive games and botw (my favorite game of all time) portably. It simply hypes me up to hear the menu music before deciding which game to play on both the 3ds and WiiU! I guess it puts me perfectly in the mood to spend some time immersed in a game. On the other hand, I just feel underwhelmed with the switch and its blandness.

[@Great-Documentaries]

5:00: You do realize that the video quality of Wii (and GameCube) games on a Wii U over the HDMI cable IS WORSE than on a Wii using the OEM component cables, right? That's why I still use my Wii for that. That and the fact that I can plug GC controllers and DK Bongos into the top of it, and it can read GC discs. The Wii U didn't make the Wii obsolete for the 90 million of us who kept our Wii's and ignored the failed Wii U. And it is CERTAINLY NOT the "best way to play Wii games."

[@KingYoshi93]

The GamePad always having to be on could be kinda annoying, but fortunately it's what I usually play with (instead of the Pro Controller or WiiMote). It does feel very comfortable! I wish it was possible to play Wii games and maybe even GameCube games through the GamePad's buttons and not just the screen, as long as motion controls weren't necessary for the certain game. It makes less sense to me to use the GamePad's screen with the WiiMote. (Some of this stuff is possible through homebrew though. The Wii U could've been a bit better if Nintendo had done some of this stuff.) The Switch is much more practical, as there's basically less stuff you need. It's less confusing. But it does feel a bit less comfortable in my hands than the Wii U's GamePad. And of course the lack of backwards compatibility is unfortunate, and I don't feel like re-buying games I already bought for my Wii U before.

[@NeanderMeander]

All great points! The gamepad is exponentially more comfortable than playing the Switch in handheld mode. But yes, the Switch is way more practical. I'm a big fan of both.

[@joshstarr6400]

This is quite late, but with homebrew you can play Wii and GC games with the Gamepad

[@Setogayamari]

Dude how can your videos be this high quality and still have less than 1k subs? Well you earned one more for sure. I pray this channel takes off, goodluck friend

[@NeanderMeander]

Thank you for the kind words! Maybe one day these videos will get in front of more people.

[@Setogayamari]

@@NeanderMeander I hope so. I was looking for a good comparison video. Most people are usually biased and really hate the wii U. But this seemed very educational and fair. I personally love the wii U

[@BigM5304]

In recent times I've heard people unironically say that the Wii U is a better console than the Switch, which as someone who owned a Wii U and saw how much people disliked it is surreal to hear

[@NeanderMeander]

It's definitely surreal to hear things like that. I also owned a Wii U during it's run. Nobody cared about it. There was so much negativity surrounding it. I would walk into games store and ask where the Wii U games were and the employees would ask me why and joke about how dumb it was. It's kind of nice to see people looking at it in a positive light all these years later.

[@NicBN]

I’m just gonna sub... This is a great video with great quality, I’m surprised you do not have over a million subscribers

[@NeanderMeander]

Thank you so much! I appreciate you watching and letting me know what you think about the video!

[@Great-Documentaries]

The Wii U was the console NO ONE asked for with a stupid tablet, no upscaling of Wii Games, and the abandonment of all that made the Wii Nintendo's biggest win ever. And waving a Wiimote is far better than holding the ridiculous tablet any day. It was 7th generation tech in an 8th generation world. And N fanboys wonder why it failed?

[@BliXXardStorm]

This is the most underrated Nintendo channels I’ve seen yet. Nintendo meets high quality filming? Heck yeah!

[@NeanderMeander]

Thank you so much! I'm happy to hear that you like my videos

[@EveryDayRetroGaming]

I stayed away from the Wii U because I thought the controller looked so uncomfortable. I'm shocked how you said how comfortable it is even with the long gaming session. Agreed on the Marketing it was terrible =P Can't wait to see your next video! Keep em coming Neander!

[@NeanderMeander]

Thanks for always watching my videos! The gamepad is one of my all time most favorite controllers! Dead serious! It’s a perfect controller for tough games like Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze. The battery is terrible, but I that is the only downside to it. Give it a spin if you get a chance. I’d like to know what you think about it!

[@mashimaru-id]

yap it's heavier than other controller, but the grip and the button layout feels so good in hands. The gaming experience having 2 display is the one that switch can't beat.

[@animeissogoodandourlordand1747]

i thought atleast this channel has a million but 589!!!!!!!!!!! what is this? you deserve way more.

[@ForeverCacti]

The reason why the screen looks so good is because the screen is smaller so the pixels are more compressed so it looks more clear

[@SergioPL]

Your channel is awesome and deserves so much more subscribers!!

[@NeanderMeander]

Thank you! I appreciate the support!

[@neptunemacaw3354]

The Wii U was my child hood and when I found out people didn’t even know what it was I was you can imagine my surprise.

[@NeanderMeander]

I know, right!? It's crazy that people had never figured out it was a whole different console from the Wii.

[@mojmov6128]

Got the notification this time 😎 keep making this videos. I love watching them

[@NeanderMeander]

Awesome! I’m glad yo hear it! Thank you for watching them! I’ll keep them coming!

[@Great-Documentaries]

Not one person on Earth spend the 6 long, dreadful years of the Wii U's life thinking it was an accessory to the Wii. If such a person had existed, they hardly were in the market for a console or they would have known what the Wii U was. Microsoft has named their consoles: Xbox, Xbox 360 (?), Xbox One (!??!!!?) and Xbox Series X/S (???). No MSFT fanboy has ever tried to claim they lost to Sony because of the confusing name. It's only the child-like Nintendo fanboys that try to use that as an excuse. Here's reality: Everyone knew what it was and STILL didn't want one because it had this useless tablet (that even Nintendo couldn't find a good use for) and it was previous-generation in terms of power vs the mighty PS4 and Xbox One. It's really and truly THAT simple.

[@mojmov6128]

I feel like the Wii u was definitely overshadowed by other game consoles at the time and it just wasn't different enough for people to love it. That's why the switch brought the idea they were trying to portray in the Wii u that it failed to do. The Wii u also had some great games which are why so many Wii u games such as Breath of the wild and Mario kart 8 we're ported to the switch. Because these are great games that were kinda overlooked because the console was a little overlooked. Like you said in the beginning, the switch seems to bd the finished idea that the Wii u was trying to be.

[@NeanderMeander]

It really does seem like the Switch is what what the Wii U was meant to be. But that doesn’t take away how fun the Wii U is to play!

[@mojmov6128]

@@NeanderMeander and I'm really happy that the wii u exists becuase without it, the switch might of been way less successful or maybe wouldnt have existed at all.

[@NeanderMeander]

So true! Thank heavens Nintendo took a shot at it! Even though it failed, it brought forth one of the best consoles to ever exist! Did you end up picking up your Switch Lite?

[@ianeons9278]

The Wii became a fad around 2010,so even if the Wii U was called Wii 2,it still would have sold poorly. Wii U is my second favorite console after the GameCube.

[@NeanderMeander]

The Wii U is such a great console! I agree with you that calling the Wii 2 wouldn’t have guaranteed it’s success. Though I think it would have made it clear that it was a completely different console and not another Wii console revision.

[@the_relaxing_tony2818]

The switch is just an upgraded Wii U with full price games from the Wii u lmao

[@NeanderMeander]

I know there are many who think the same. There's definitely an argument for this stance. Though the Switch has many other great games the Wii U doesn't have. We're lucky so have to many options!

[@the_relaxing_tony2818]

@@NeanderMeander lmao your right, I have the switch indeed but only buy the games that are not on the Wii u, since I can get the Wii u games for lot more cheaper you know xD

[@MrMoose-mf1oy]

I just don’t know what Nintendo were thinking with the Wii U though. It was just a Wii with upgraded HD graphics still far behind the competition, and a weird gimmick that was the game pad that was honestly annoying to use because of its poor battery life, and the fact that you couldn’t take it too far away from the console. Yes, it was nice having a second screen, but, honestly, who cares? I much prefer the comfort of a regular controller anyways and don’t mind having to pause to pull up a map. The switch is definitely what the Wii U should’ve been. It had a great library of games, but the lack of social features, out of date hardware, marketing confusion, lack of third party support and weird gimmicks ultimately killed it.

[@NeanderMeander]

Well said! I see where they were coming from with the idea. The Wii was such a massive hit, why not capitalize on it? Nintendo definitely made mistakes with it and that's why it failed. Though you could use some of those arguments on the Switch as well. It's also way behind Xbox and PlayStation graphically. It's also based around a gimmick, a home console and portable system in one. Don't get me wrong, I love the Switch! It's my favorite console currently! and that gimmick is awesome and functional. I'm also very happy the Switch didn't fail and it's riding an all time high right now!

[@yxles]

Woah the quality of this video was top notched. Hope you had more subscribers in the future

[@NeanderMeander]

Thank you! I really appreciate this

[@gametourny4ever627]

Wow! Great video. Just subscribed. Really good audio and filming style. Also, I love the Wii U. Trying to Hu t down some of the Exclusives left on it.

[@NeanderMeander]

Thanks for watching! The Wii U is awesome! I’m also trying to get my hands on a few games.

[@abrambarron9464]

All your videos have a great aesthetic to them.

[@NeanderMeander]

Thank you! I'm glad you like them!

[@TheAbsol7448]

People are _really_ sleeping on the Wii U having backcompat on top of Virtual Console, which includes Xenoblade Wii and Metroid Prime Trilogy. The Wii U is _easily_ Nintendo's best system so far. It has my favorite game of all time so far, being Xenoblade Chronicles X, free online play which isn't any worse than the Switch's $20 yearly online, up to DS and Wii in Virtual Console, and it actually has a good home screen background and music. The ONLY thing the Switch ACTUALLY has above the Wii U is portability. NO Virtual Console(S/NES Online doesn't make up for it and it's a fucking sad attempt at game preservation), NOTHING to justify a paid subscription for online, NO backcompat(they could've made it a disk drive accessory), and a BORING home screen theme. I can't even customize it to show more than one line of games at once. The coolest thing about the Wii U for me was the GamePad. I never saw the Wii U as the Wii 2. I saw it as the DS in home console form. Using the GamePad with Xenoblade Chronicles X was great, and while I never played Super Mario Maker or Kirby and the Rainbow Curse, they looked like they utilized the GamePad flawlessly. It's too bad that few games really used the GamePad, and I think it was a huge missed opportunity. They could've and should've made a 3DS Player accessory for the Wii U, like the GBA Player for the GameCube. Playing DS and 3DS games blown up on a TV and upscaled to HD would've been so fucking _cool._

[@NeanderMeander]

Yes to all of this! I also thought it would have been great if Nintendo made a DS/3DS player for it. I absolutely would have use it like crazy! You're right, the gamepad was a fantastic addition to the games that used it. I really thought it was a step forward for the gaming world. But sadly very few really took it seriously. I'm just happy to see that there are so many fans of the Wii U. Don't get me wrong, I really like the Switch. Having some of my favorite Wii U games on the go is a dream come true. Though it did sting a little having to buy those games again.

[@TheAbsol7448]

@@NeanderMeander I love my Switch, but I have a few serious issues with it. Joy-Con Drift is a huge pain, the online service sucks and I refuse to pay for it, and the hardware just doesn't feel good. Plus, only having _32GB_ of storage is _really_ bad for a modern console. It was bad for the Wii U and it's awful on the Switch. Ironically, as much of a disaster the Wii U was, it's only _real_ issues were marketing and the weird unclear solution to storage.

[@carlgreene538]

I bought my Wii U in July 2020 and absolutely love it I also love the Gamepad as well.

[@NeanderMeander]

Awesome! The Gamepad is really nice! It's one of my favorite controllers

[@carlgreene538]

@@NeanderMeander Mine too only the Gamecube control pad is better and not by much.

[@ordinarynet6694]

I still think the Wii U console itself is cooler then the switch. Maybe its just nostalgia

[@NeanderMeander]

I really like both of them! I'll always have a soft spot for the Wii U because I really got into it early on when it released. I still play it quite often. On the other hand, I also really enjoy playing the Switch. I'm glad we have all these options to play video games!

[@ordinarynet6694]

@@NeanderMeander i absolutley agree! Btw loved the video, keep it up man!

[@NeanderMeander]

Thanks!

[@alamgiral-qidwa6067]

Bruh? 544 subs? This man deserves atleast 5 mil...

[@LeeHarveyMorris]

Great video! I’ve just bought a Wii u and I love it. Not quite as sleek as the switch as you say but having games like wind waker and twilight princess in HD and being able to play them again after so many years is great!

[@NeanderMeander]

I absolutely agree! The Wii U is a little clunky, but it has two fantastic Zelda remasters exclusive to it. I wouldn't be surprised if we see both of them end up on the Switch.

[@LeeHarveyMorris]

Yeah I’m sure they’ll make there way over to switch at some point in the future but the fact they’re both on Wii U was part of the reason I bought the console in the first place!

[@NeanderMeander]

Those are two good reasons to pick one up! I grabbed me another one recently for almost nothing!

[@ZeldaVerde]

@@NeanderMeander I would love that

[@ZeldaVerde]

@@LeeHarveyMorris They are slowly making a wii u virtual console on switch

[@TheRealDustinNunn]

I loved the Wii U, but I didn't have many games for it. I enjoy the Nintendo Switch more because I have tons of good games on my Switch Lite!

[@NeanderMeander]

Both are excellent consoles. It’s a fun topic to talk about. I will admit that having the ability to take my Switch with me everywhere I go is pretty amazing.

[@Adamchevy]

I recently repurchased a Wii U, the Virtual Console is just so good! I miss having my Zelda machine in my life! I wish it upscaled Wii games, but its great that its an option. Thanks for making this video! The Wii U needs as much love as it can get. I love the Wii U gamepad, its so much better than the Switches horrible Joycons.

[@NeanderMeander]

I couldn’t agree more with what you wrote! The Wii U is a great gaming console. It’s too bad people didn’t give it a chance! I’m happy to see that there are people who appreciate and enjoy playing it! The Virtual Console is fantastic! The selection is still pretty great! The gamepad was designed so well. One of my favorite controllers of all time! I absolutely prefer it over the Joy-cons!

[@woodrowwilson4126]

@@NeanderMeander the Wii U e-shop channel is shutting down :(

[@mbii7667]

The Switch is great but the Wii U is criminally underrated/overlooked Also I love the Gamepad, it's great for when people walk in front of the TV when you're playing Smash lol

[@NeanderMeander]

It's so underrated! The Gamepad is one of the best controllers Nintendo has ever made. It's great hearing from like minded people

[@RBSHighlights]

Reasons why Gamecube and Wii U are underrated GameCube: Mario Kart, Sunshine, and smash bros. Do I need to say more? Wii U: Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker Mario 3D World Backwards compatibility with the Wii Mario Party And Yoshi’s Wooly World

[@NeanderMeander]

Yes! Both were very underappreciated.

[@RitaMaSTeR]

I think this is the first video I saw from you, amazing work here, I love my wiiU, and just got it in 2021 and is jailbreak, amazing system. I can play a log of nintendo games from the 80's to now. Sub!

[@NeanderMeander]

Thanks! I love the Wii U too! It’s such a great console! Thank you for subbing!

[@Rockhead84]

This was a fantastic review. loved the background music also

[@NeanderMeander]

Glad you liked it!

[@galacticmaui2]

You nailed it with this video. It's kinda sad that people associate the Wii U's failure on a sales level as if the console itself was bad. Sure, the Switch is the superior console overall but there are plenty of aspects about the Wii U that is amazing and even better.

[@NeanderMeander]

Definitely! It's crazy how easily people judge something base don sales numbers. I'm sure most of the people who have criticized the Wii U haven't ever played one.

[@sherzanman1188]

But the games

[@myanimatiansstudios2341]

Nintendo should make their next console the wii u done to perfection. The gamepad will be fully portable and the base console will be gorgeous graphics because the potential of 2 screens is too big to pass up.

[@NeanderMeander]

That would be amazing!It would be cool if something like this happens in the future

[@botcakes]

i personally think the wii is better than the wii (music/wii sports) u but i think the wii u is a pretty dope console

[@NeanderMeander]

I like the Wii as well. It's turned out to be one of my favorite consoles.

[@vornamenachname5589]

After WiiU with the second screen concept which i loved, the switch always felt like a huge step backwards.

[@NeanderMeander]

I agree with this. The Wii U was a step forward for home gaming. The Switch just combined Nintendo’s two markets.

[@joba7064]

I'm 'only' 29 and I totally missed this Era of tech. Didn't know a WII u was hand held or been around until I Google it and just now lol.

[@NeanderMeander]

That actually really awesome to hear! I was the same way with the DS. I had no idea Nintendo made 4 models. I completely skipped it entirely.

[@vladtorcatoriu9080]

You are so underrated!

[@KingYoshi93]

4:48 Which game is this?

[@NeanderMeander]

Wario Land 4 for the Game Boy Advance. It's a great game!

[@Cart1416]

I didn't even know the screen is 480p

[@sheridynart7334]

I bought a switch about 10 months ago and sold it after 3 months. I really didn’t like it and it didn’t have the same charm my old Wii had. I bought the Wii U and I am in love with it. It’s exactly what I wanted.

[@NeanderMeander]

The Wii U is such a great console! I love it!

[@DonaldVale]

Also now your games got shit Mario party 10, Mario tennis ultra smash, animal crossing amiibo festival ,etc

[@Salvatore-xs]

I have a Wii U and love the console, the gamepad is so comfortable to use, and has great games and the VC plus plays Wii games such a massive library. I did have a Switch console but found it was not very comfortable to use over a period of say half a hour, so after about a month, I sold it on and apart from Animal Crossing do not miss it one bit, I have all the games I would have purchased for the Switch on my Wii U, and at a fraction of the price, and can play in more comfort. Wii U all the way for me.

[@NeanderMeander]

I love the Wii U! The gamepad is really comfortable to play with. Hopefully we see something like it again in future.

[@Adamtendo_player_1]

Switch all the way for me, it’s more powerful, the library is better and yes it has Wii U ports and it’s a testament to how good those games were on Wii U, yes it can get uncomfortable playing in hand held mode for long periods but the Switch is better designed, especially the Switch OLED which looks so much better than the Wii u tablet, controller or whatever the hell it’s supposed to be, I’m interested in the Wii U but I won’t pay the crazy ass prices for me, id rather buy the last gen Wii which is a better system than the Wii U and far more successfulZ

[@gabrielisaiahflores]

It’s called Wii U because it is for everyone (hence why Wii was the name of their last console) but also for you (U) aka the hardcore gamers since they were trying to bring them back after they lost them in the Wii era due to focusing more on casual gamers since that was the main demographic who bought a Wii which is why it was a success. The GamePad was supposed to be an appeal and they were trying to make the Wii U more unique and different to the Wii in which they failed. It took until the Switch for Nintendo to go back on track and focus more on hardcore titles and not really focuses on gimmicks that they don’t know how to implement.

[@dragonmaster_000]

the "U" actually stands for "underwelming"

[@NeanderMeander]

Oh yeah! Nice one

[@SirMato]

the wii u was never a failure turns out people just complain a lot

[@NeanderMeander]

I think it was a failure commercially. It's Nintendo's least selling home console. I love it! I think it gets a bad reputation from people who didn't really play it, or played it for a short period of time.

[@Optidorf]

The support of Nintendo on Switch is quite underwhelming I must say. Most of their top selling games are ports from Wii U. Only Super Mario Odyssey is built from the ground up for Switch.

[@mezomoza7]

Wii U Pro Controller is easily my favourite controller of all times, the design and battery are simple best.

[@NeanderMeander]

It's a great controller! The battery lasts forever!

[@wantikjasonchiu4711]

But there are things that I do like more on the Wii U than the Switch is that you can make use of the dual screen which makes it easier to play without needing to switch between different game screens.

[@jeffreyschmidt3997]

Great production quality!

[@cpiep]

The Wii U failed because by the time the Wii U came out people realized the original Wii sucked. People wanted nothing do do with a console with Wii on the name.

[@NeanderMeander]

I think people were getting tired of the Wii by that point. It didn't help that there was so much shovelware on it.

[@cpiep]

@@NeanderMeander yes there was. But more importantly people got tired of the motion controls. I never brought a Wii U when it came out because I assumed it was just like the original Wii needing to use a Wii mote.

[@darksoul7675]

I remember in 2012 wanting a 3ds and then a wii u when I saw the commercials for it. I was also jealous of my friend having wii u. The Switch, 3ds and Wii U are definitely my top 3 favorite consols :)

[@NeanderMeander]

They are all great consoles! It’s been great being able to play all of them!

[@zkierxn3660]

3ds isnt a console

[@rjm_0809]

@@zkierxn3660 Now while it is not a Home Console, its a HANDHELD Console.

[@greenkoopa]

Lemme ask you this, Are you partial to the 8Gb wii u? I've never seen one, mine is black because I always bet on black 🤔 Also like i said it's the only one for sale

[@NeanderMeander]

The white 8gb version films better. I use my black Wii U for the majority of my Wii U gaming.

[@b8conbear330]

I liked to use the tv button. Not even the switch can control the tv with a button. Because the game pad can serve multiple purposes

[@NeanderMeander]

The TV button is pretty cool! I used it all the time too. It's too bad the Wii U didn't do very well. It had some really good ideas.

[@b8conbear330]

@@NeanderMeander the other fact is the switch is missing TONS of features and can only be used for games. meanwhile the Wii U has tons of features and it feels alive. i felt like i wasn't just using a console, i was immersing myself in a universe

[@NeanderMeander]

@@b8conbear330 I totally agree with you! It's unfortunate that people judge a console by how many units it sold. I would love an upgraded Wii U

[@b8conbear330]

@@NeanderMeander me to! and atleast its not made out of cheap materials like the switch is.

[@davistalhone9482]

Very nice retrospective. Personally (as someone who bought two Wii Us during the console's life) - the massive tablet rejection was a little more than it simply not looking like a Sony or Microsoft controller. I remember right out of the gate being disappointed with so many aspects of it - the sheer bulk, the fact that in two player games (with my ex using a Wii mote), all of our buttons being labeled differently (press Y to use item/ press C to use item), the bottom most face button (B) cancelling selections and (A) selecting after years of Sony's (X) and (O) doing the opposite. But most of all the fact that the system wouldn't even function without it - just little annoyances that always made me buy the PS3 ports of games that were available for both formats. Plus so few games used it properly. Hated that in many titles it was more of a hinderance than a benefit (like Rayman Legends) where the player with the tablet actually had different responsibilities to worry about than the other players. All in all - there were some good ideas, some terrible ones, but like you said: the lack of marketing and confusing name choice were the nails in the coffin. Glad Nintendo learned from the experience.

[@NeanderMeander]

I agree with you. The gamepad has it's annoyances. I got used to (B) canceling and (A) selecting with the 3DS before buying the Wii U, so that wasn't so bad for me with the Wii U. I did struggle with it on the 3DS in the beginning though. I can't help but think back fondly on the Wii U overall. It's too bad these things weren't ironed out while it was relevant.

[@davistalhone9482]

@@NeanderMeander Agree 100%. I still have mine hooked up in my game room. It's one of those systems that you simply can't help but look at and think of the potential. I like how you tied it up with the Switch, though. How there really wouldn't be a Switch at all were it not for the Wii U. I have an (unpopular) opinion that Nintendo would do well to make a third Switch package that is just a TV console. You'd have the hybrid for $300 or for $200, players would have the option of either full portable or full TV. A guy like myself, who doesn't do mobile gaming, would certainly have to pick up a $200 Nintendo game box to replace said Wii U.

[@NeanderMeander]

@@davistalhone9482 I really like that idea! I'm kind of surprised Nintendo hasn't done it already. I would absolutely buy one!

[@jœyBagg]

NM: "This is one of the finest controllers ever made." Also NM: "The D-pad is....there..."

[@NeanderMeander]

I meant what I said

[@trentmorrison6074]

I remember playing cod ghosts and watchdogs on the wii u. And i loved it. I had some fun fun memories on that wiiu. Actually more then the switch. Update: dont get me wrong, the switch is a good consle, but the whole indie game thing, is a problem. Again there was the virtual consle you mentioned, then 3rd part games. The wii u did a better job then the switch. The switch cant wven at least get cod mobile at the very least. Yet the wii u has bo2 ghosts, watchdogs, splinter cell. the switch has potential. But the problem is that the potential is not being used the best way. and its to a point were home brewing is a.far far supperior option then playing it based. Better yet get some 7th gen games. Thatll do the trick.

[@stevenmanriquez8030]

The switch can play more 3rd party games but the 3rd party developers don’t want to put their games on Nintendo console. Sure those games like CoD Black ops 2 and Watch dogs were on the Wii U but then they left after the Wii U failed financially. Plus the switch has a good 3rd party games like Doom, Skyrim, Witcher 3, and Monster Hunter. CoD will be on the switch if the switch surpasses 100 million units.

[@trentmorrison6074]

@@stevenmanriquez8030 well. Theres always at least sniper elite.

[@pigeonette1]

The only problem I have with my Switch is the lack of background music :( Other than that it’s the second best console I’ve ever had! The best is the new 3ds xl until it broke D:

[@NeanderMeander]

Yeah, what's going on with that? Why isn't there background music? I agree with you. There should be background music!

[@8Bitplus]

Good stuff buddy what camera and lens did you use on this video?

[@NeanderMeander]

I use two cameras; a Canon 80D and a Sony A5100. I use a few different lenses on the Canon. Mainly the 50mm.

[@8Bitplus]

Oh sweet! I use a a5100 as well! Great beauty shots buddy I look forward to seeing more!

[@NeanderMeander]

I watched a few of your videos. It’s good stuff! Very nice audio and editing! I subbed

[@8Bitplus]

Thanks so much buddy! Maybe one day we could setup a collaboration?

[@NeanderMeander]

You bet! Let me know when!

[@emmanuellule159]

Great video!! This shots are cinematic!

[@NeanderMeander]

Thank you! I’m glad you liked it

[@alfredthegreatkingofwessex6838]

The wiiu has the most comfortable controller ever

[@NeanderMeander]

It's really is super comfortable!

[@Sugarkyte]

Yup 100%

[@kxam2]

Love this! You deserve more subs!

[@NeanderMeander]

Thank you for watching! Hopefully things will continue growing.

[@wantikjasonchiu4711]

But not only you play your games on the Wii U game pad while the tv is being used, you can also if you want, you can also watch tv using it too because the Wii U actually has tv functionality.

[@aerr0wz]

Tysm for making this video!! As an owner of both the Wii U and the Switch, I can't really disagree with you lol 😂

[@NeanderMeander]

Thank you for watching it!

[@MrLegendFRR]

I'm really confused if I should Buy the wii u or Nintendo switch because I kinda wanna use the wiimotes and I do want a good gaming experience???? Somone help me

[@NeanderMeander]

They are both really good consoles. I would recommend the Switch because it's still a current console with new games coming out on it. You can also play most of the best Wii U games on the Switch because they were ported to it. The Wii U is a great console, but they are getting difficult to find in good condition at a reasonable price. The games are also started to go up in price. Though, if you're really into modding your systems, the Wii U is an excellent option. I guess it all comes down to what you value more; a current console that's still being supported or an older console you can mod.

[@josephbennett3482]

You're way WAY better off getting a Nintendo Switch because it's not only a current console but also it's both portable and able to be docked to play on a TV , the Switch can play the same games that were on the Wii and Wii u , where the Wii u and Wii u is old and Nintendo isn't making them or games for them anymore. The Switch is super popular and will be for a very long time.

[@tarnw3301]

A year later, but here's my opinion as someone that has the Wii U and the Switch (both bought last year) Wii U is an amazing console, the wiimotes and controllers allow you to play with your family/kids. The catalogue is great and there's a rumour that some Wii Games that are compatible with Dolby. I played BoTW in switch with a new stereo system and I have never been so disappointed in how lame it was.

[@electrocity2000]

At this point, I wouldn't pick up a Wii U if you can afford a switch, but if you want a great hacking machine to be able to play Gamecube through Nintendont, VC injects, and of course you have the entire Wii back catalog, then the Wii U is a great system

[@NeanderMeander]

I think the Wii U still has value as a gaming console. I mean, Nintendo is still to this day porting over Wii U games to the Switch. Why not pick those Wii U games up for less? The Switch is a great console, one I really like (I just made a video about the Switch and Switch Lite), but if you can find a Wii U for a reasonable price, I think it's worth it to pick up.

[@EpicRobloxianReal]

I own both of them and I gotta say that they are both beautiful. The Wii U is criminally underrated

[@NeanderMeander]

They are both great! I’ve come to really embrace the Switch. It’s one of the best consoles I own. I agree with you, the Wii U is criminally underrated.

[@EpicRobloxianReal]

Also.. I feel happiness whenever I play the Wii U (and Wii) because they gave me my childhood

[@annmimi_extraextra]

How did you get the gray border on NSO SNES app? Was it a fanmade mockup?

[@NeanderMeander]

If you use the official Nintendo SNES Bluetooth controller you get the grey border.

[@Bristlerske]

I absolutely love the Switch, but it hurts me to see how many people dislike the Wii U. In my opinion, the Wii U was honestly an incredible and innovative console.

[@NeanderMeander]

I completely agree!

[@BigSmokeMUFC]

I love it more than any other console, even the Switch. It felt like an actual Nintendo console imo.

[@gunsandmoses8670]

I know I'm late to the party. But if you want a great pro controller way better than Nintendo's with reliable hall sticks instead of Nintendo's carbon based ones. Go for the Gulkit King Kong pro. You can even use it on windows, ios and of course switch. Price $70 check it out. I personally have one and will be purchasing another soon. The controller has gyroscopic functions and can even read amiibos. You will definitely not be disappointed. Alot of us don't have lots of money to be spending right now and I would not recommend it if I didn't think you would love it. I'm in no way sponsored, I'm just a poor dude trying to help others on a tight budget who can't afford to be screwed with garbage. Much love from New York!

[@NeanderMeander]

Thanks for this! I took a look at the controller. It looks really nice and people seem to love it! I think I might have to check it out. I’ve been to New York a few times. It’s a great place to be.

[@ethantylerr91]

Are the screens both in the same size? I purchased a switch yesterday so I’m just curious the difference

[@NeanderMeander]

I'm not sure. I'll measure it out and I'll report back.

[@13Ucube]

A virtual console made me a Wii U apologist. A VC with gamecube games on switch would be instant sales

[@NeanderMeander]

It would be awesome if Nintendo did that for the Switch!

[@SpiffDico]

Some games I’ve kept the Wii U version of, mostly because it feels more fitting on there. And until the Switch has Wind Waker and Twilight Princess (and an N64 Online), I’ll still be playing my Wii U.

[@NeanderMeander]

Me too! The Wii U was so misunderstood. If only people gave it a chance.

[@hoaidoan3254]

This filming of this comparison video is insane

[@NeanderMeander]

I hoping that’s a good thing

[@Cruptile]

Honestly seeing this I just think what if sega had done what nintendo did with the wii u switch situation all those years later? ie either shipping dreamcasts with BBAs as stock or cutting their losses and making a new system with BB as stock and something like dvd support. with how advanced sega usually was compared to the competition i wouldnt even be surprised if they made a comeback around '03 with a hdmi capable system you know like as if they had spent those years since the DC failed to amass funds to support such an endeavor.

[@NeanderMeander]

I really wish Sega would have continued on as well. It's too bad their poor decisions caught up with them. They really did make awesome consoles and games.

[@elliesrabbit8686]

Very well put together video 👏👏👏

[@NeanderMeander]

Thank you!

[@sku7842]

I always liked that the Wii U’s lower resolution game pad always displayed retro games much better than a modern tv or touchscreen

[@NeanderMeander]

Good point! They look excellent on it

[@luisrosariocastillo8699]

Yeah original wii games also look amazing on the gamepad

[@NeanderMeander]

@@luisrosariocastillo8699 That's true! They look great on that screen

[@ThatIceChampion]

The Wii U was incredibly underrated, it deserved more Although I disagree with the “can’t turn the console on with the controller” claim, as you can. Using the power button on the Pro controller

[@NeanderMeander]

I think the Wii U is still underrated. I had some good times with it. Are you telling me you can turn the Switch on with the official Pro Controller?

[@ThatIceChampion]

@@NeanderMeander yea the Wii U is incredible Also I mean that you can turn on the Wii U with the pro controller, not sure if thats what you meant in the video tho so if not then my bad •-•