Under the General tab, map the main buttons to match the Xbox layout. New Super Mario Bros. Wii plays best with the "Nunchuk + Wiimote" style.
Mappings:
Nunchuk Buttons:
Go to Controllers > Wii Remote 1 > Configure > uncheck “Attach Nunchuk.” NSMBW only uses the remote sideways.
Below is a long, structured overview covering playing New Super Mario Bros. Wii in the Dolphin emulator using an Xbox controller: setup, controller mapping, performance tips, common issues and solutions, and legal/ethics notes. dolphin new super mario bros wii xbox controller
In New Super Mario Bros. Wii, Mario must "spin" to float in the air or activate propellers. On a real Wii, you shake the controller.
Recommended Shake Mapping:
NSMBWii occasionally uses motion (e.g., shaking to perform certain actions or for menus). Emulated Wii Remote supports: