Super Smash Bros. for Wii U

Game Overview

Super Smash Bros. for Wii U is a 2014 crossover fighting game developed by Sora Ltd. and Bandai Namco, directed by Masahiro Sakurai, and published by Nintendo. It is the home console counterpart to Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and forms the fourth main installment in the Super Smash Bros. series (often referred to as Smash 4).

Players control characters from across Nintendo’s history (plus select third-party guests) in free-for-all or team battles. Instead of traditional health bars, fighters take damage percentage and are knocked off the stage. The Wii U version stands out with support for up to 8 players simultaneously on larger stages, exclusive modes such as Smash Tour (a board-game hybrid) and Special Orders, Stage Builder, and a broader selection of home-console-inspired stages. The character roster is shared with the 3DS version and includes both veterans and newcomers like Mega Man, Pac-Man, Villager, Little Mac, Shulk, and others, with additional DLC fighters later added.

The game supports extensive controller options, including the GameCube Controller Adapter, and features amiibo support for Figure Players that learn and improve. Online multiplayer was available until the Nintendo Network shutdown in April 2024.

Quick Specifications

• Title: Super Smash Bros. for Wii U
  
• Platform: Wii U
  
• Release Date: November 21–December 6, 2014 (varies by region)
  
• Developer: Sora Ltd. / Bandai Namco
  
• Publisher: Nintendo
  
• Genre: Fighting, Platform Fighter
  
• Players: 1–8 local / online multiplayer (services discontinued)
  
• Rating: ESRB E10+ / PEGI 12
  
• Modes: Single-player, Local Multiplayer, Online Multiplayer
  
• Compatible Controllers: Wii U GamePad, Wii U Pro Controller, Wii Remote, Classic Controller, GameCube Controller (with adapter), 3DS as controller
  
• Features: 8-Player Smash, Stage Builder, amiibo support, character customization, DLC fighters
  
• Roster: 51 base characters + DLC (final total 58 including all DLC)
  

Key Features

• Up to 8-player local multiplayer on select large stages
  
• Extensive character roster featuring Nintendo icons and third-party guests
  
• Exclusive modes: Smash Tour, Special Orders, and 8-Player Smash
  
• Stage Builder for creating custom stages
  
• Character customization with equipment and custom special moves
  
• Mii Fighters (Brawler, Swordfighter, Gunner)
  
• amiibo Figure Players that level up and learn
  
• High-definition presentation with large, detailed stages
  
• Classic, All-Star, Event, and multiplayer stadium modes
  
• Support for a wide range of controllers, including GameCube controllers
  

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

How many players can play at once?

Locally, up to 8 players can battle simultaneously in 8-Player Smash mode on compatible stages. Standard matches support up to 4 players.

Is the roster the same as the 3DS version?

Yes. Both versions share the same playable characters and move sets. The Wii U version features different stages and exclusive modes.

Does it support GameCube controllers?

Yes. With the official GameCube Controller Adapter for Wii U, you can use GameCube controllers (up to 8 with two adapters).

Are there DLC characters?

Yes. Downloadable fighters included Mewtwo, Lucas, Roy, Ryu, Cloud, Corrin, and Bayonetta. Some were free for owners of both the Wii U and 3DS versions.

Is online multiplayer still available?

No. Official online services for Wii U ended on April 8, 2024. Local multiplayer and single-player modes remain fully playable.

What is Smash Tour?

Smash Tour is an exclusive board-game-style multiplayer mode where players collect fighters and power-ups on a board before engaging in a final battle.