Nintendo Warns Wii U Users Against Unofficial Online Services

KYOTO, Japan — Nintendo has issued a public warning to Wii U users, urging them to avoid unauthorized online services that have emerged to replace discontinued features. The company’s Japanese branch posted the alert on its official Twitter account, citing potential security risks.

The warning comes after Nintendo shut down online services for the Wii U and 3DS consoles in April 2023, marking the end of an era for the eighth-generation systems. In response, fan-made networks like ‘Pretendo’ have gained popularity, offering users access to online play and communication features without requiring system modifications.

“We are aware that some users are using unauthorized services,” Nintendo stated in a translated post. “These services may pose unexpected security risks, and we strongly recommend avoiding them.”

Released in 2012, the Wii U was Nintendo’s first console to support HD graphics and introduced the innovative Wii U GamePad, which served as both a secondary display and a controller. Despite its unique features, the console struggled commercially, selling only 13.56 million units worldwide before being discontinued in 2017.

Fans have continued to use the Wii U, particularly for games like Splatoon, even after the official online services were discontinued. Some users responded humorously to Nintendo’s warning, with one stating they would continue playing Splatoon despite the risks. Others expressed hope for a successor to the Wii U, which many believe will be the rumored Nintendo Switch 2.

The gaming community has been eagerly anticipating the reveal of Nintendo’s next console, with speculation about features like improved social mechanics reminiscent of the Wii U’s Miiverse platform. Miiverse allowed users to create avatars and share messages, fostering a unique online community that many hope will return in future hardware.

Nintendo, headquartered in Kyoto, Japan, remains a dominant force in the gaming industry, known for iconic franchises like Super Mario, The Legend of Zelda, and Pokémon. As the company prepares for its next console release, the Wii U’s legacy continues to resonate with dedicated fans.