of the original game. You must also use a recent development or beta build of Dolphin Emulator Locate the Load Folder: Navigate to Dolphin's user directory (usually %appdata%\Dolphin Emulator on Windows). Create the Riivolution Path: If it doesn’t exist, create a folder named Riivolution inside the 2. Installing the Mod Most major mods, such as the acclaimed Newer Super Mario Bros. Wii , come in a standard Riivolution format. Extract Files: Download your chosen mod (e.g., from the NSMBW Modding Database ) and extract the contents. Placement: Move the mod's specific data folder (e.g., riivolution folder (containing the patch file) into Dolphin's Load/Riivolution directory. 3. Launching with Patches Once the files are in place, the Dolphin Wiki recommends the following steps to start: Open Dolphin and right-click New Super Mario Bros. Wii entry in the game list "Start with Riivolution Patches..." In the menu that appears, enable the desired mod and click Optional Shortcut: "Save as Preset"

Open Dolphin, click (or Options > Settings depending on your build), and navigate to the Paths tab.

The NSMBW modding scene is vast. Here are some of the best, currently active in 2026:

Mods like Newer Super Mario Bros. Wii use – a loader that patches the game on the fly without altering the original ISO. This is the most compatible method for large, custom-asset mods.

Download your chosen mod (e.g., from the Newer Team or the NSMBW Modding Database ).

Playing custom mods for New Super Mario Bros. Wii (NSMBW) transforms a classic game into a brand-new experience. Mods like Newer Super Mario Bros. Wii add entirely new worlds, custom music, and unique power-ups. Running these mods on the Dolphin emulator allows you to experience them in high definition with enhanced performance.

Some sites distribute pre-patched NSMBW ISOs. This is piracy unless you patch it yourself. How to (legal self-patch):

Many large-scale mods provide a dedicated compiler tool within their download folder. This tool automatically combines your original game ROM with the custom mod files to create a brand-new, standalone game file. Step 1: Extract the Mod Folder

2. The Latest Dolphin Emulator (Beta or Development Versions)

Go to Graphics -> General . Set your Backend to Vulkan (or Direct3D 12 on Windows) for the best modern hardware optimization.

sat innocently on his desktop. To most, it was just data; to Leo, it was the key to a "lost" sequel Nintendo never made.

Paste them directly into the Riivolution folder you opened in the previous step. Step 4: Launch the Mod Right-click New Super Mario Bros. Wii in Dolphin. Select .