The safest and only legal method to obtain Wii U ROMs is to using a softmodded Wii U console running homebrew software like dumpling . Once you have safely backed up your own games to an SD card or USB drive in folder format, you can use Cemu on your PC to compress those files into the clean, efficient WUA format.
I wanted to write up a quick guide on what they are and why you might want to use them.
: Merges Game + Update + DLC into one file, so you don't have to install updates into Cemu’s virtual file system separately. wua roms wii u
A compressed version of WUD files. While smaller than WUDs, they still do not integrate game updates or DLCs, requiring you to manage multiple folders separately. Why WUA is the Best Format for Cemu
Modern versions of Cemu read WUA files natively. There is no need to unpack or decrypt anything. How to Convert Your Wii U Games to WUA The safest and only legal method to obtain
WUA is a modern file format for Wii U games designed to combine multiple files into one for better storage and performance. What is WUA?
This public link is valid for 7 days and shares a thread, including any personal information you added. This link or copies made by others cannot be deleted. If you share with third parties, their policies apply. Can’t copy the link right now. Try again later. : Merges Game + Update + DLC into
Cemu’s Graphics Packs feature allows you to upscale your WUA games well beyond their original 720p/1080p hardware limitations.
Even large archives, like the "Nintendo Wii U [eShop] (USA) Full Set" available on the Internet Archive , operate in a legal gray area, often being preserved for historical purposes. Ultimately, the responsibility lies with you to respect copyright laws.