Last updated on 2022/01/23
IMPORTANT: Blocking updates
Set your console's DNS to 168.235.092.108 (US) and 081.004.127.020 (EU) (use both) to block the console from downloading updates.
Settings > System Settings > Internet > Connect to the Internet > Select your connection > Change settings > DNS (Don't auto-obtain)
If you don't do this, you allow Nintendo to update your console without asking. In the absolute worst case this can brick your Wii U.
If you want to block system updates without a custom DNS, use this method.
START HERE: Tiramisu guide: https://wiiu.hacks.guide/#/
Note: Tiramisu is a new exploit that was officially released on Dec 31, 2021. Unlike Haxchi, which was the previous go-to CFW, it doesn't require you to purchase a DS Virtual Console title. It also has a much safer coldboot option which uses a modified version of the Health and Safety app to load payloads (more info here).
It's recommended to switch to Tiramisu CFW even if you've hacked your Wii U before. At the very least you'll be able to finally play that DS game you've paid good money for!
Modding vWii (the Wii inside your Wii U): https://wiiu.hacks.guide/#/vwii-modding
Downloading Wii U games (eShop, VC)
- Wii U USB Helper: extremely bloated GUI for downloading games directly from Nintendo's CDN, has tons of other features as well
- NUSGrabberGUI: another tool for downloading games, not as cluttered but also not as convenient
- NUSspli: a freeShop solution for Wii U - download and install titles directly through your console - includes a generator for fake tickets (downloaded games require CFW to launch)
Using your own backups
- Dumping disc-based games for installation: https://github.com/koolkdev/disc2app/releases (guide)
Titlekey database: https://titlekeys.ovh/
Some tools such as NUSspli can handle the installation process by themselves.
Encrypted content (e.g. downloaded with Wii U USB Helper) can be installed from an SD card with tools such as WUP Installer GX2. Keep in mind however that all titles require a (fake) titlekey for decryption. Most tools can generate or download one (from the database mentioned above), but if you need to be 100% sure: Search for your game in the titlekey database, copy the key, create a file called "title.tik" inside the folder with the encrypted files, paste the key into the file and save. Install game as usual.
This outdated guide explains the process in detail. Note: uTikDownloader was discontinued.
Injectors
These tools let you inject any compatible ROM into a custom Virtual Console title which benefits from the Wii U's built-in emulator.
- UWUVCI AIO (Wii, GC, NDS, GB/C/A, N64, SNES, NES, TGX16, MSX)
- TeconmoonWiiVCInjector (Wii, GC)
- Phacox's Injector (NES, SNES, N64, GBA, NDS)
General
- Homebrew App Store
- Nintendont (Play GameCube games on vWii)
- NUSPacker (Packs decrypted files into installable packages, useful for modding games)
- ftpiiu (Wii U FTP server)
- Bloopair (Adds support for Switch, Xbox and PlayStation controllers)
- HID to VPAD (more controller support)
- SaveMii (Offline save manager)
- Spiik (Region changer, required for some games even on CFW)
- SDCafiine (On-the-fly file replacement tool, must-have for mods)
- RetroArch (it's RetroArch)
- SwapDRC (Play TV-only games on the gamepad)
- tik2sd (Dumps all of your console tickets and keys)
Resources
Wii U common key: d7b00402659ba2abd2cb0db27fa2b656
Can I update to 5.5.x (current OFW)?
Yes, it's safe. You should still use the custom DNS mentioned above, just in case.
Can I use DLCs and play online?
Generally, yes, but keep in mind that you will need to boot into CFW in order to play DLC and eShop-only games. If you're using non-coldboot Haxchi CFW, always launch the Haxchi app before launching games. If you're using Mocha, you need to reapply the browser exploit each time you turn on your console.
You're unlikely to get banned on CFW unless you're deliberately modding your games or cheating.
- If you're having trouble getting an external HDD to work on your Wii U, make sure it's connected via a Y-cable, since the Wii U doesn't supply it with enough power otherwise which can lead to crashes.
- Xenoblade X uncensor + undub
- Splatoon mods
- DS VC layout editing
- In DS Virtual console games, you can change the internal resolution to X2 by editing the /game/content/configuration_cafe.json file. Search for "Renderscale", it should display a 1. Switch it to 2.