So, keeping recent tradition of home consoles with bizarre names, Nintendo just finished announcing the Wii U at their E3 presentation. While most details are still scant (like release date and price point), there are some things you definitely need to know about the new system.
The main feature of Wii U is the touchscreen controller. It looks like a large tablet, similar to a uDraw with a 6.2" screen, and is jam-packed with a front facing camera, microphone, speakers, dual analogs and accelerometer. The controller is more than just bulky, as it enables users to switch the video feed from your television to the controller. So, no more arguing over TV time.
The controller also has unprecedented interactivity with its games. Videos at the presentation featured the ability to point the controller at the TV, showing player specific views of a game in progress. The most memorable was a pitcher in a Wii Sports-like game being able to line up his throw with the catcher. A golf video was also shown in which the controller was on the ground showing a ball waiting to be hit. Another video snippet featured the ability to mount the controller onto a zapper gun enabling a scope for easy aiming.
A big surprise regarding the Wii U is its graphical capability. It touts full 1080p support and is able to run games normally found only on PS3 and 360. Darksiders II, Batman: Arkham City, Tekken, Assassin's Creed and Ninja Gaiden 3 are just a few of the titles that will be available on Ninty's new console. There was also promise of an overhauled online network.
But, if you're bummed about the idea of having to get a second mortgage to pick up the system and all its accessories, you will have some piece of mind knowing that not only games, but all peripherals, will be backwards compatible.
The E3 show floor will be open in a few hours, so we'll keep you updated with any additional breaking Wii U news.
