Do you own a Wii U? Well, if so (and you still play on it) then you should know that Nintendo has just updated the firmware for the unpopular console.
Nintendo Releases Updated Wii U Firmware
It may be three years since its last update, but Nintendo has surprised Wii U console owners with an update to its firmware. The last update came to us in 2018, so it is a little curious as to exactly why Nintendo is updating the device.
In a tweet, Wario64 confirms the update is available and you can download it now (if your Wii U doesn’t automatically update).
Wii U just received firmware update Ver. 5.5.5 U, the first update since Sept 3rd, 2018 pic.twitter.com/us9YjcWSwN
— Wario64 (@Wario64) March 2, 2021
As you can see, the rather vague update text cites the reason as “Improvements to system stability and usability”. According to Nintendo, this will “enhance the user experience”.
Why Is Nintendo Updating Wii U Firmware?
The non-committal text that accompanies the update leaves us fairly clueless why Nintendo is updating the firmware.
However, if you look at the comments underneath Wario64’s original tweet, you may find your answer.
Many of the replies come from the modding community. The Wii U has become a favorite among modders, as you can easily exploit the console to install homebrew software on it.
While there is nothing wrong with installing your own homebrew software on a Wii U, the exploits also open up the potential to play pirated Nintendo games on the console too (which, in case we need to remind you, is illegal).
So, if Nintendo doesn’t want the console used for playing pirate games, then it needs to close the exploits that modders are using to run pirated titles. That is potentially why Nintendo has patched the firmware.
Note: Installing homebrew software on a console might lead to loss of data, or may even brick the device, meaning it will no longer work.
Should You Upgrade Your Wii U Firmware?
Well, that all depends. Do you use it to run homebrew software? Then you probably don’t want to update it or your exploits may be closed next time you turn the Wii U on. Then you won’t be able to play your homebrew titles.
If you still use your Wii U to play games you have purchased for the console (i.e. you haven’t modded it), then you won’t have any issues with the update. You can install it without loss of data or bricking your device.
If you want our advice, we suggest considering the Switch or the Switch Lite for your Nintendo fix. The Switch is Nintendo’s current console, and with that comes ongoing support (at least, until the Switch 2 comes out).