Recently the release of the new version was announced from the popular Nintendo Wii U game emulator "Cemu 2.0", which allows normal PCs to run games and applications created for the Nintendo Wii U game console.
It is worth mentioning that release stands out for open project source code and move to an open development model, in addition to providing support for Linux.
Cemu is a Nintendo Wii U emulator that for a long time its source code was closed and only available for Windows. It usually receives updates once every two to four weeks, with donors (via Patreon) receiving these updates a week earlier than the general public.
Of the features that stand out in this emulator, we can find the following:
- Amiibo Support
- NFC support
- V-Sync support
- Support for multiple controllers (Gamepads, up to 8 controllers)
- Support for game updates and DLC
- Support for Graphics Packs; (480p; 720p; 1080p; 2K; 3K; 4K; 8K)
- Debugging support
- Control screen support
- Audio emulation.
As well is capable of running encrypted Wii U images (WUD) and RPX/RPL files at 1080p, as long as the game supports them. The emulator is in constant optimization and still requires a lot of work: as of January 2022 it runs several games with good performance, although it occasionally suffers from long load times, stops working unexpectedly and audio support is partial, no supports some sound effects.5
About Cemu 2.0
Recently, the development has been done only by the founder of the project and consumes all their free time, leaving no opportunity to participate in other projects. The author of Cemu hopes that the transition to an open development model attract new developers and make Cemu a collaborative project. At the same time, the author does not stop working on Cemu and intends to continue developing it, but without dedicating all his time to it.
In its current form, the emulator has been tested to run 708 games written for the Wii U. 499 games are yet to be tested.
Ideal work is observed for 13% of the games tested, and 39% of the games are reported to have tolerable support, with minor bugs related to graphics and sound not affecting gameplay.
19% percent of games launch, but gameplay is not complete due to more serious issues. 14% of games launch but crash during gameplay or on the home screen. 16% of games experience crashes or hangs during launch.
Currently, Cem supports emulation of DRC game controllers (GamePad), Pro Controller, Classic Controller and Wiimotes, as well as keyboard control and connection of existing game controllers via USB port. Touch input on the GamePad can be simulated by clicking the left mouse button, and gyroscope functionality can be controlled with the right mouse button.
Download and get Cemu 2.0
For those who are interested in power try this new release, they should know that the ready builds are prepared for Windows and Ubuntu 20.04.
For other Linux distributions, it is suggested to build the code it was on its own and it is worth mentioning that the Linux port uses wxWidgets on top of GTK3.
The SDL library is used to interact with input devices, in addition to a graphic card compatible with OpenGL 4.5 or Vulkan 1.1 is required. There is support for Wayland, but builds for environments based on this protocol have not been tested. It is worth mentioning that plans are also mentioned for the creation of universal packages in AppImages and Flatpak format, in the future.
Finally, for those who are interested in being able to see the source code, they should know that it is written in C++ and is open under the free MPL 2.0 license.
You can consult the source code as well as more information about the project In the following link.
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