Question about playing SNES/N64 games on Wii U

[Edge Master]

I would like to go back and play some SNES and N64 games and am trying to work whether there is any advantage of buying the original consoles and using a CRT or simply buying a Wii U and using the virtual console?

[Xeogred]

I was a little shocked to see the difference side by side between the NES Classic and the NES games off the Wii U VC. The NES Classic looks FAR sharper, more colorful, and has a more pixel point correct aspect ratio.

I'm not sure about SNES and N64 accuracy though. But I own dozens of games on the Wii U VC and it's very nice and convenient. The Wii U Pro controller is basically an awesomely evolved SNES controller with the button placements, so everything feels natural. You can also have one save state per game or suspend the game too, making it easy if you need to run on the fly or something. You can make "folders" now on the Wii U menu making it easy to organize things.

For the original stuff, you'll need the space and the games, which are increasing in price. Glad I got basically everything I want for the SNES myself. But mine is boxed away now and it's nice having access to them on the Wii U, still supporting and owning some legal digital versions.

[marurun]

I've read in several sources that the original Wii virtual console is much better than the WiiU virtual console in terms of emulation quality.

[Xeogred]

I've read in several sources that the original Wii virtual console is much better than the WiiU virtual console in terms of emulation quality.

Downside here is how the Wii doesn't support 720p+.

I played Rondo of Blood via the Wii through the U and it looked fine, but I'm sure it could have looked better.

Yes, I've become that guy that hates the jaggies on Wii games on an HDTV.

[TSTR]

OP, what are your intentions? You want to shell out for carts? Interested in flashcarts? You want scanlines and 240P? Concerned about lag and emulation accuracy? You prefer CRT or modern display? You want savestates? OG controllers?

It's really about what you're looking for. The amount of options to play these games are myriad.

[ElkinFencer10]

I always say go for original carts on original hardware, but if that it's an option because of logistics or finances, there's no real problem with the Wii U's Virtual Console. The Wii's VC is definitely more expansive and seems to be a bit better quality emulation, but you can't really tell a big difference unless you're playing them side by side.