The Nintendo Wii garnered widespread appeal as a gaming system, catering to both casual and dedicated gamers with its innovative peripherals and a diverse game library. Amidst its offerings, the platform also housed a selection of commendable visual novels, some of which capitalized on the convenient pointing feature of the Wii Remote.
Although visual novels weren't the Wii's flagship genre, it concealed a few treasures for players to unearth. So, which visual novels stood out on the Nintendo Wii?
5 Another Code: R - A Journey Into Lost Memories
Metascore: 66
- Release date: N/A
- Developer: Cing
- Platforms: Wii
Another Code: R - A Journey Into Lost Memories serves as a direct sequel to Another Code, originally released on the Nintendo DS. This installment, although not released in the US, hinted at potential future stories for the series, leaving American enthusiasts without a conclusive resolution. Fortunately, a re-release for the Nintendo Switch, titled Another Code: Recollection, is set to provide closure.
The game adopts a simplistic point-and-click adventure structure, delving into the enigmas surrounding the protagonist's past. With the protagonist's maturity since the first game, the plot gains depth, elevating the overall narrative.
4 Broken Sword: Shadow Of The Templars - The Director's Cut
Metascore: 74
- Release date: March 24, 2009
- Developer: Revolution Software
- Platforms: Wii
Broken Sword: Shadow of the Templars - The Director's Cut, a revamped version of the inaugural game in the renowned Broken Sword series, harnesses the Wii's capabilities to offer a more intuitive control system. Featuring additional story elements absent in the original release, this rendition solidifies its status as a timeless masterpiece within the adventure genre.
3 Sakura Wars: So Long, My Love
Metascore: 75
- Release date: March 30, 2010
- Developer: Sega
- Platforms: Wii, PlayStation 2
Sakura Wars: So Long, My Love intertwines a visual novel with dating sim and RPG elements, embracing romance as a central theme. While the game exhibits some exaggeration and traces of sexism, its captivating plot and well-crafted character relationships overshadow these flaws. The game's official release in the West enhances its significance for collectors and genre enthusiasts.
2 Zack & Wiki: Quest For Barbaros' Treasure
Metascore: 87
- Release date: October 23, 2007
- Developer: Capcom
- Platforms: Wii
Zack & Wiki: Quest For Barbaros' Treasure presents an exceptional adventure-puzzle experience, leveraging the innovative capabilities of the Wii Remote. Despite its minimal plot, the game's adept use of puzzles and riddles delivers a gratifying experience. Regrettably, the absence of a sequel for the Wii remains an unfulfilled wish for players.
1 Secret Files: Tunguska
Metascore: 66
- Release date: June 22, 2010
- Developer: Fusionsphere Systems
- Platforms: Wii, DS, PC, iOS, Android, Wii U, Switch
Secret Files: Tunguska exemplifies a classic point-and-click adventure, revolving around the enigmas of the Tunguska incident. With engaging puzzles and an intriguing plot, the game maintains a solid standing within the visual novel genre. While its sequel on the Wii falls short in narrative quality, both games remain among the finest visual novels on the Wii.