Nintendo Download Update: New Wii U eShop Releases, Virtual Console Classics, and DSiWare Arrive in North America

Nintendo has rolled out its latest North American Download Update, bringing a diverse selection of games and discounts to Wii U, 3DS, and DSiWare platforms.

This week’s lineup offers something for every gaming enthusiast, from artistic creativity to classic adventures and cooperative platformers, solidifying the Nintendo eShop’s reputation for variety and value. The spotlight is on “Art Academy: Home Studio” for the Wii U eShop, marking the franchise’s debut on a home console.

Priced at $29.99—or a discounted $25.99 for owners of Art Academy: SketchPad on the same system—this art application leverages the Wii U GamePad’s large touchscreen to provide a premium drawing experience.

Art Academy: Home Studio features extensive learning modules for beginners and advanced artists alike, along with robust online sharing options.

Creators can now easily upload their work to YouTube or Nintendo’s Miiverse, further enhancing community engagement.

Our review affirmed that this is a must-have for creative gamers. Two notable multiplatform titles also land on the Wii U eShop.

Sierra Entertainment’s “Shiftlings,” at $14.99, is a vibrant cooperative platformer in which players control two alien siblings solving puzzle-themed levels.

Its unique mechanic—where one character inflates while the other navigates obstacles—ensures both solo and duo players will find a satisfying challenge.

Meanwhile, E-Line Media’s “Never Alone” arrives for $14.99, combining puzzle platforming with the culturally rich tale of Nuna and her Arctic fox companion.

Based on traditional Iñupiaq storytelling, the game delivers an authentic narrative but, as highlighted in our review, faces some technical hurdles on the Wii U version. On the Wii U Virtual Console, fans can revisit two acclaimed Nintendo DS titles.

“Star Fox Command” ($9.99) injects fresh tactical elements into the beloved franchise, blending strategic touchscreen planning with classic Star Fox aerial combat.

Additionally, “Mario & Luigi: Partners in Time” ($9.99) brings the whimsical RPG adventures of Mario, Luigi, and their younger selves to the platform, continuing AlphaDream’s legacy of humor and inventive gameplay. Discount hunters will find tempting offers on both Wii U and 3DS eShops.

Notable deals include “Puzzle Monkeys” and “Stone Shire” for Wii U, as well as “Attack on Titan: Humanity in Chains” and classic SEGA titles on the 3DS eShop.

Several 3DS titles, including “Big Hero 6: Battle in the Bay” and “Conception II: Children of the Seven Stars,” now have permanent price reductions, broadening accessibility for portable gamers. Longtime Nintendo handheld fans won’t be left out, as DSiWare sees the arrival of eight new G.G Series titles from Genterprise, including “NYOKKI,” “THROW OUT,” and “VERTEX.” These retro-inspired releases span genres from sports to puzzle platformers, offering affordable options for those seeking classic gaming experiences on original hardware or on the Nintendo 3DS Family through backwards compatibility. Nintendo’s ongoing commitment to digital distribution is clear, with regular updates like this week’s Nintendo Download Update ensuring that fans across platforms—from Wii U and Nintendo Switch to legacy handhelds—continue to have access to fresh content, classic titles, and unique experiences.

Whether you’re an aspiring digital artist, co-op enthusiast, or retro gaming aficionado, the latest eShop lineup in North America delivers something for everyone.

Nintendo Wii U eShop Virtual Console Nintendo Switch Art Academy Home Studio Sierra Entertainment E-Line Media Star Fox Command Mario & Luigi Partners in Time Genterprise 3DS DSiWare Atlus SEGA AlphaDream GameMill Entertainment Log Games O2 Games Finger Gun Games Zordix AB Enjoy Gaming