Last Edit: 2017.06.01
I've made this thread because I've recently gotten into Nintendo Wii hacking.
When hacking/modifying my Wii system, I've noticed that a lot of threads or users online still hold onto "old methods" with sometimes "unclear information" while there are better and improved applications available.
Therefor after hours of searching and testing for better applications available, I've decided to create this "once and for all" topic that will give u the most recommended and best applications for your Nintendo Wii system, so that "you" do not have to dig for this information yourself.
Please note that the applications listed below are meant for the Nintendo Wii™ and can cause issues or even bricking on Nintendo Wii U™ systems, if you wish to use these on your Nintendo Wii U™ system, please read up on online concerning the safety of these programs.
I'm not responsible for any damage done to any of your devices concerning the applications listed below.
USB Loader GX
This loader most resembles the official Nintendo Wii System Menu, and has a wide support of application loading trough it.
• Currently the most up-to-date loader available
WiiFlow
Designed to be dynamic and animated, next to USB Loader GX a widely used USB Loader.
• In-build support for loading games from SD card
Configurable USB Loader
Not too familiar with this one, but it seems to be able to force games in 480p and has faster ROM dumping.
• In-build support for loading games from SD card
USB Loaders worth mentioning:
RetroArch v1.5.0
RetroArch is a frontend for emulators, game engines and media players. It enables you to run classic games on a wide range of computers and consoles through its slick graphical interface.
This emulator comes with allot of Nintendo emulators cores such as "NES, SNES, GB, GBC, GBA" and is seen as the best emulator application in doing so.
• Settings are unified so configuration is done once and for all emulators.
Nintendont
Nintendont is a Wii mode homebrew to play GameCube games on Wii and WiiU vWii.
This allows the usage of loading GameCube ISO files from SD/USB and playing them on full speed with 99.9% support of games.
• Technically a loader, not an emulator
List of per-console recommended emulators:
Genesis Plus GX
Genesis Plus GX is an open-source Sega 8/16 bit emulator focused on accuracy and portability.
This emulator has in-build cores for the following Sega systems: "Genesis / Mega Drive, Sega/Mega CD, Master System, Game Gear & SG-1000"
• The complete Genesis Plus GX core is also available in RetroArch if perferred to use.
RetroArch v1.5.0
RetroArch is a frontend for emulators, game engines and media players. It enables you to run classic games on a wide range of computers and consoles through its slick graphical interface.
This emulator comes with allot of Sega & Atari emulators cores such and is seen as the best emulator application in doing so.
• Settings are unified so configuration is done once and for all emulators.
List of other emulators:
SysCheck HacksDen Edition
A tool that does several checks on your system on checks and errors.
This might be handy in case you ever need a report when there are issues with your system.
WiiMC+
This is an open source all-in-one media player that allows to play and show audio, video, images and text.
This is an modified version of the official WiiMC, with a lot more features and better control implementations.
• Has the ability to read CD/DVD's, only recommended when using an external reader as the Wii system isn't build to constantly read disc.
WiiXplorer
A file explorer for the Wii with a GUI, allows you to read, modify, copy, paste and edit files.
It also has an builtin FTP client to transfer files from your computer to your Wii.
• If you happen to have issues with the FTP client, you can try the alternative application: ftpii
SaveGame Manager GX
SaveGame Manager GX allows you to extract/install SaveGames and Miis from/to your Wii.
WiiLauncher
An application that is able to download and activate Cheat Codes for physical discs inserted in your Wii.
Newer Super Mario Bros. Wii
Newer Super Mario Bros. Wii is a unofficial sequal mod to New Super Mario Bros. Wii adding a whole new campaign of 128 new levels and more.
CTGP Revolution
CTGP Revolution is a mod to Mario Kart Wii adding over 200 new tracks to the game, as well as loads of extra features.
Super Mario War Wii
Super Mario War Wii is a port of Super Mario War which is a simple fighting game that feels like a toned down Super Smash Bros, great fun with friends local play.
Wii-DOOM / Wii-HERETIC / Wii-HEXEN / Wii-STRIFE (2014 reports)
Ports of classic games based on the DOOM engine.
• Please note you require a "Classic Controller" to play these games and the original game files.
BootMii
Backup the NAND of your Wii (creating practically an unbrickable Wii)
If in any case you ever brick your Wii, you will be able to write back the NAND and restore it to the state it was in when you made it.
• If installing BootMii, it is recommended to choose Boot2 if possible over IOS for more safety
Priiloader
Priiloader is a application which places itself before the System Menu. Its main feature is removing system limitations such as "CD region protection" and disabling features as updates.
It is also able to directly boot to The Homebrew Channel whenever the Wii is turned on. Priiloader is also able to apply memory patches to the system menu to remove limitations or other things.
• It is highly recommended to read up on this program and only touch what is needed if you are not sure what you are doing
WiiModLite
Based and improved on WiiMod, it allows you to install .WAD files to install forwarders and apply IOS changes etc.
This program also includes a tile deleter that removes junk data left behind by removed forwarders. (recommended over AnyTitle Deleter)
• It is highly recommended to read up on this program and only touch what is needed if you are not sure what you are doing
RiiConnect24
RiiConnect24 allows the discontinued WiiConnect24 service to be used again, which kept your Wii connected to the Internet in Standby mode 24/7.
It modifies system files of applications using WiiConnect24 and changing their connection type to another server which allows it to be functional.
Please note that these System Tools are meant for the Nintendo Wii, and can cause bricking on Nintendo Wii U systems.
If wanted to use these tools on a Nintendo Wii U system, please read up on the application pages.
CustomizeMii
A program to be able to Create your own Channel Forwarder.
Besides creating, its also able to modify channels, such as channels found online that you want redirect to wanted folder locations.
wit: Wiimms ISO Tool
An CMD tool that allows you to convert game ISO's and other Wii backup methods to .WBFS which is needed to be read on a Wii.
This program has better and cleaner results then other programs.
• Allows the removal of individual partitions from ISO files such as the "Update" partition (200MB).
• Preferred over the other program "Wii Backup Manager", but requires a learning curve.
Wii Backup Manager
An GUI tool Allows you to convert game ISO's and other Wii backup methods to .WBFS which is needed to be read on a Wii.
• Options are somewhat hidden, but overall easy to use and easier for the general people opposed to "wit".
ModMii
This is a program that is able to download all the files necessary to Modify, Upgrade & Downgrade your Wii System Menu.
It can generate custom guides based on your Wii's specifications, and save the files to your SD Card in their appropriate locations for easy offline soft-modding.
A few level editors:
I hope that this thread will help those who want definite information on applications and tools that are in current state "Best to Use" or most recommended.
If you wish to seek more homebrew for your Nintendo Wii system, you can find more on this website:
http://wiibrew.org/wiki/List_of_all_homebrew
- Please note that this site is not fully updated, thus does not have everything available
If you have any suggestion on recommended applications, please share by posting below so we can improve on this thread.
~The best Nintendo Wii homebrew applications 2017~
I've made this thread because I've recently gotten into Nintendo Wii hacking.
When hacking/modifying my Wii system, I've noticed that a lot of threads or users online still hold onto "old methods" with sometimes "unclear information" while there are better and improved applications available.
Therefor after hours of searching and testing for better applications available, I've decided to create this "once and for all" topic that will give u the most recommended and best applications for your Nintendo Wii system, so that "you" do not have to dig for this information yourself.
Please note that the applications listed below are meant for the Nintendo Wii™ and can cause issues or even bricking on Nintendo Wii U™ systems, if you wish to use these on your Nintendo Wii U™ system, please read up on online concerning the safety of these programs.
I'm not responsible for any damage done to any of your devices concerning the applications listed below.
Best USB Loaders
USB Loader GX
This loader most resembles the official Nintendo Wii System Menu, and has a wide support of application loading trough it.
• Currently the most up-to-date loader available
WiiFlow
Designed to be dynamic and animated, next to USB Loader GX a widely used USB Loader.
• In-build support for loading games from SD card
Configurable USB Loader
Not too familiar with this one, but it seems to be able to force games in 480p and has faster ROM dumping.
• In-build support for loading games from SD card
USB Loaders worth mentioning:
tba
Best Nintendo Related Emulators
RetroArch v1.5.0
RetroArch is a frontend for emulators, game engines and media players. It enables you to run classic games on a wide range of computers and consoles through its slick graphical interface.
This emulator comes with allot of Nintendo emulators cores such as "NES, SNES, GB, GBC, GBA" and is seen as the best emulator application in doing so.
• Settings are unified so configuration is done once and for all emulators.
Nintendont
Nintendont is a Wii mode homebrew to play GameCube games on Wii and WiiU vWii.
This allows the usage of loading GameCube ISO files from SD/USB and playing them on full speed with 99.9% support of games.
• Technically a loader, not an emulator
List of per-console recommended emulators:
Nintendo
Super Nintendo
Nintendo 64
wii64 beta 1.2 - (Despite this being the best N64 emulator, it has issues running many games, but some seem to work good.)
Nintendo GameCube
Virtual Boy
Game Boy Color
Game Boy Advance
Nintendo DS
DeSmuME Wii (unofficial r253) - (Besides being the only NDS emulator, most games cannot run at full speed and are buggy)
One emulator in particular that comes by a lot is RetroArch, this is because it exceeds on a lot of fronts then emulators such as snes9x and VBAGX.
This Emulator in particular is Recommended to be used mainly since it allows you to not install any other emulator.
Super Nintendo
Nintendo 64
Nintendo GameCube
Virtual Boy
Game Boy Color
Game Boy Advance
Nintendo DS
One emulator in particular that comes by a lot is RetroArch, this is because it exceeds on a lot of fronts then emulators such as snes9x and VBAGX.
This Emulator in particular is Recommended to be used mainly since it allows you to not install any other emulator.
Best Non-Nintendo Related Emulators
Genesis Plus GX
Genesis Plus GX is an open-source Sega 8/16 bit emulator focused on accuracy and portability.
This emulator has in-build cores for the following Sega systems: "Genesis / Mega Drive, Sega/Mega CD, Master System, Game Gear & SG-1000"
• The complete Genesis Plus GX core is also available in RetroArch if perferred to use.
RetroArch v1.5.0
RetroArch is a frontend for emulators, game engines and media players. It enables you to run classic games on a wide range of computers and consoles through its slick graphical interface.
This emulator comes with allot of Sega & Atari emulators cores such and is seen as the best emulator application in doing so.
• Settings are unified so configuration is done once and for all emulators.
List of other emulators:
Sony Playstation 1
WiiSXR - (Runs a decent amount of 50% games as playable, but still comes with issues)
Sega (Genesis / Mega Drive, Sega/Mega CD, Master System, Game Gear & SG-1000)
Genesis Plus GX
RetroArch - (makes use of the "Genesis Plus GX" core)
Atari 2600
RetroArch - (makes use of the "Stella" core)
Atari 5200
tba...
Atari 7800
tba...
Atari XEGS
tba...
Atari Lynx (Handheld)
WiiMednafen
WiiHandy
Atari Jaguar
tba...
TurboGrafx-16 (PC Engine)
WiiMednafen
RetroArch - (makes use of the "WiiMednafen" core)
ColecoVision
WiiColEm
tba...
Hatari (atari)
Wiixl (atari800)
More emulators can be found on: http://wiibrew.org/wiki/List_of_homebrew_emulators
Sega (Genesis / Mega Drive, Sega/Mega CD, Master System, Game Gear & SG-1000)
Atari 2600
Atari 5200
tba...
Atari 7800
tba...
Atari XEGS
tba...
Atari Lynx (Handheld)
Atari Jaguar
tba...
TurboGrafx-16 (PC Engine)
ColecoVision
tba...
Hatari (atari)
Wiixl (atari800)
More emulators can be found on: http://wiibrew.org/wiki/List_of_homebrew_emulators
Useful Utilities / Applications
SysCheck HacksDen Edition
A tool that does several checks on your system on checks and errors.
This might be handy in case you ever need a report when there are issues with your system.
WiiMC+
This is an open source all-in-one media player that allows to play and show audio, video, images and text.
This is an modified version of the official WiiMC, with a lot more features and better control implementations.
• Has the ability to read CD/DVD's, only recommended when using an external reader as the Wii system isn't build to constantly read disc.
WiiXplorer
A file explorer for the Wii with a GUI, allows you to read, modify, copy, paste and edit files.
It also has an builtin FTP client to transfer files from your computer to your Wii.
• If you happen to have issues with the FTP client, you can try the alternative application: ftpii
SaveGame Manager GX
SaveGame Manager GX allows you to extract/install SaveGames and Miis from/to your Wii.
WiiLauncher
An application that is able to download and activate Cheat Codes for physical discs inserted in your Wii.
Homebrew Games
Newer Super Mario Bros. Wii
Newer Super Mario Bros. Wii is a unofficial sequal mod to New Super Mario Bros. Wii adding a whole new campaign of 128 new levels and more.
CTGP Revolution
CTGP Revolution is a mod to Mario Kart Wii adding over 200 new tracks to the game, as well as loads of extra features.
Super Mario War Wii
Super Mario War Wii is a port of Super Mario War which is a simple fighting game that feels like a toned down Super Smash Bros, great fun with friends local play.
Wii-DOOM / Wii-HERETIC / Wii-HEXEN / Wii-STRIFE (2014 reports)
Ports of classic games based on the DOOM engine.
• Please note you require a "Classic Controller" to play these games and the original game files.
System Tools (USE WITH CAUTION!)
BootMii
Backup the NAND of your Wii (creating practically an unbrickable Wii)
If in any case you ever brick your Wii, you will be able to write back the NAND and restore it to the state it was in when you made it.
• If installing BootMii, it is recommended to choose Boot2 if possible over IOS for more safety
Priiloader
Priiloader is a application which places itself before the System Menu. Its main feature is removing system limitations such as "CD region protection" and disabling features as updates.
It is also able to directly boot to The Homebrew Channel whenever the Wii is turned on. Priiloader is also able to apply memory patches to the system menu to remove limitations or other things.
• It is highly recommended to read up on this program and only touch what is needed if you are not sure what you are doing
WiiModLite
Based and improved on WiiMod, it allows you to install .WAD files to install forwarders and apply IOS changes etc.
This program also includes a tile deleter that removes junk data left behind by removed forwarders. (recommended over AnyTitle Deleter)
• It is highly recommended to read up on this program and only touch what is needed if you are not sure what you are doing
RiiConnect24
RiiConnect24 allows the discontinued WiiConnect24 service to be used again, which kept your Wii connected to the Internet in Standby mode 24/7.
It modifies system files of applications using WiiConnect24 and changing their connection type to another server which allows it to be functional.
Please note that these System Tools are meant for the Nintendo Wii, and can cause bricking on Nintendo Wii U systems.
If wanted to use these tools on a Nintendo Wii U system, please read up on the application pages.
PC Utilities
CustomizeMii
A program to be able to Create your own Channel Forwarder.
Besides creating, its also able to modify channels, such as channels found online that you want redirect to wanted folder locations.
wit: Wiimms ISO Tool
An CMD tool that allows you to convert game ISO's and other Wii backup methods to .WBFS which is needed to be read on a Wii.
This program has better and cleaner results then other programs.
• Allows the removal of individual partitions from ISO files such as the "Update" partition (200MB).
• Preferred over the other program "Wii Backup Manager", but requires a learning curve.
Wii Backup Manager
An GUI tool Allows you to convert game ISO's and other Wii backup methods to .WBFS which is needed to be read on a Wii.
• Options are somewhat hidden, but overall easy to use and easier for the general people opposed to "wit".
ModMii
This is a program that is able to download all the files necessary to Modify, Upgrade & Downgrade your Wii System Menu.
It can generate custom guides based on your Wii's specifications, and save the files to your SD Card in their appropriate locations for easy offline soft-modding.
A few level editors:
Final Word
I hope that this thread will help those who want definite information on applications and tools that are in current state "Best to Use" or most recommended.
If you wish to seek more homebrew for your Nintendo Wii system, you can find more on this website:
http://wiibrew.org/wiki/List_of_all_homebrew
- Please note that this site is not fully updated, thus does not have everything available
If you have any suggestion on recommended applications, please share by posting below so we can improve on this thread.
With this thread, let us keep the Nintendo Wii alive with the best features it can possibly have.
Last edited by ShadowtearX,