Installing mods for New Super Mario Bros. Wii (NSMBW) on the Dolphin emulator is a straightforward process, but it requires specific file structures to work correctly. Most modern mods use the Riivolution format, which allows the emulator to swap original game files with custom content on the fly. Prerequisites

  • Use the Riivolution app via Homebrew emulation (more complex) OR
  • Use the simpler “Replace Files” method below.
Load/Riivolution/NewerSMBW/NewerRes/
Load/Riivolution/NewerSMBW/NewerSMBW.xml
Load/Riivolution/NewerSMBW/icon.png

Method 3: Manual .dol Patching (For Small Gameplay Mods)

Some mods (like physics tweaks or small level changes) come as a main.dol file.

To enable mods in Dolphin, go back to the main Dolphin window and select "Tools" > "Lua Console." This will open a new window where you can input commands.

BPS/IPS Patches (ROM hacks/level changes)

Load/
  Riivolution/
    NewerSMBW/
      (place Riivolution XML and PNG here)

Step 3: Installing Mods

Now it's time to install your mods! There are many modding communities and resources available online, such as the New Super Mario Bros. Wii modding thread on GameBanana or the Mario Modding subreddit. Choose a mod pack or individual mods that you'd like to try, and download them to your computer.