Nintendo is reintroducing online multiplayer support for Mario Kart 8 and Splatoon on the Wii U on August 3rd, after a lengthy period of being unavailable. The reason behind the shutdown in March was a security vulnerability that allowed potential attackers to exploit the console using an “ENLBufferPwn” attack when it was connected online. While Nintendo has now fixed the issue, the specific details of the flaw have not been disclosed.
The update is necessary for both games to resume online play, and it is worth noting that the wait for the fix was expected since the Nintendo Switch has become the primary system, overshadowing the Wii U in popularity over the years. Nevertheless, this development is great news for those who still use the Wii U and enjoy playing these affected titles.
Despite the positive update, it seems evident that Nintendo is encouraging users to transition to the Switch. They had previously closed the Wii U eShop, making it difficult for users to access their digital game libraries unless they have physical copies. This move appears to be a strategic step in nudging gamers toward adopting the newer console.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Wii U online multiplayer
Q: When will Nintendo bring back online multiplayer for Mario Kart 8 and Splatoon on the Wii U?
A: Nintendo has confirmed that the online multiplayer for Mario Kart 8 and Splatoon on the Wii U will be available again on August 3rd.
Q: Why were the online services for these games shut down in the first place?
A: The online services were shut down due to a security vulnerability that allowed potential attackers to exploit the Wii U console using an “ENLBufferPwn” attack when it was connected online.
Q: Has Nintendo fixed the security issue that caused the shutdown?
A: Yes, Nintendo has fixed the security vulnerability that led to the shutdown of the online services for Mario Kart 8 and Splatoon on the Wii U.
Q: Do I need to update the games to access online multiplayer again?
A: Yes, in order to resume online play, you will need to update both Mario Kart 8 and Splatoon on your Wii U.
Q: Can I still use my Wii U for gaming even after the online services are restored?
A: Yes, you can continue to use your Wii U for gaming, especially if you still enjoy playing the affected titles. However, Nintendo seems to be encouraging users to transition to the newer Nintendo Switch.
Q: Why did the update take several months to be released?
A: The update might have taken several months because the Nintendo Switch has become the primary system, and resources might have been allocated accordingly. The Wii U is no longer the main focus for Nintendo.
Q: Is there any information on the specific details of the security flaw?
A: Nintendo has not disclosed the specific details of the security flaw that prompted the shutdown of online services for these games.
Q: Can I still access my digital game library on the Wii U eShop?
A: No, the Wii U eShop has been shut down, so you can no longer access your digital game library unless you have physical copies of the games. This seems to be part of Nintendo’s strategy to encourage users to transition to the Nintendo Switch.
More about Wii U online multiplayer
- Nintendo’s official website: Nintendo
- Information about Wii U: Wii U – Wikipedia
- Mario Kart 8 – Nintendo page: Mario Kart 8 – Nintendo
- Splatoon – Nintendo page: Splatoon – Nintendo
- ENLBufferPwn vulnerability details: ENLBufferPwn – GBATemp
- Nintendo Switch details: Nintendo Switch – Official Site
- Closure of the Wii U eShop: Wii U eShop closure news – The Verge
- Information on gaming consoles: Gaming consoles – Tech Radar
4 comments
yay! Online gaming is back for Wii U, so I can play with my friends again. Thx 2 Nintendo for fixing the prob! I’m not ready 2 let go of my Wii U yet, still luv it!
ENLBufferPwn attack sounds scary! But I’m glad Nintendo fixed it. Gud move 2 push peeps towards Switch, but I’ll miss the eShop. Physical copies r lifesavers now!
Aug 3rd can’t come soon enough! I need my Mario Kart 8 fix. Wii U may be old, but it’s gold! Nintendo knows how 2 make games that stand da test of time!
wow, it’s been sooooo long, but finally we get online back for mario kart 8 n splatoon! Nintendo rocks! switch may be da boss now, but wii u still has a place in ma heart, y’know?