Nintendo just announced all of the juicy details for its new Wii U home console, and it’s looking pretty awesome.
Combining a portable-style controller and a home console into one platform, the Wii U will include the touchscreen Wii U GamePad controller. The slick innovation certainly changes up the typical gaming interface, but also adds in touchscreen functionality for finding and watching video content.
First, a few of the gory details about Wii U. It looks like the all-new HD gaming system is going to be a hot holiday item this year, with Nintendo planning to ship the device on November 18, 2012. We’re wondering which of the two colors will spawn the most fist-fights: The white Wii U (MSRP: $299.99) or the black Deluxe Set ($349.99), which also includes a higher storage capacity, extra accessories and the new Nintendo Land video game.
According to Nintendo, the Wii U will have more than 50 compatible games at launch, including New Super Mario Bros. U, Lego City: Undercover, and Call of Duty: Black Ops II.
The company also recently previewed a second-screen feature known as the Nintendo TVii app. This little perk will allow users to watch and engage with video content. What that basically means is that you’ll be able to search through content from a variety of sources, including live TV, a TiVo DVR or services such as Netflix, all through the GamePad controller.
The basic set will include a white Wii U console with 8GB of internal storage, one white GamePad controller, AC adapters for both the console and controller, a sensor bar and an HDMI cable. The Wii U Deluxe Set has all of the same components from the basic set, but in black. It also includes 32GB of storage, the aforementioned Nintendo Land game, a console stand, a GamePad charging cradle, and a stand that allows users to place the GamePad vertically on a table.
Deluxe shoppers will also get to be part of the Deluxe Digital Promotion, which allows Wii U users to get earn for each digital download, which can be redeemed later in the Nintendo eShop. That promotion is expected to run through 2014.
“The wait is almost over — in just 66 days, Wii U will arrive with the strongest lineup of launch software in Nintendo history,” said Nintendo of America President and COO Reggie Fils-Aime. “With the integrated second screen of the included GamePad and features that instantly enhance the way people play games, watch video and interact with each other, consumers will see how Wii U delivers a completely unique experience and a remarkable value right out of the box. The new system also creates extraordinary new possibilities for game developers, bound only by the limits of their imaginations.”