A new Wii for U and me

LOS ANGELES: Nintendo has unveiled its highly anticipated next-generation console, the Wii U. The new device will be capable of playing games in high definition (HD) - finally coming on par with the rival Xbox 360 and PlayStation3.

What is most surprising about the U is the new controller that comes with it. It's a hefty rectangular device with a large 6.2in touchscreen in the centre, looking like a Tablet computer.

Fortunately, you won't be swinging it around like the existing Wii remote; instead it will have the traditional assortment of buttons and dual analogue sticks for game control. And the new controller will also feature a tilt-sensitive gyroscope and built-in microphone.

The U will be able to output HD visuals to both a TV and the screen on its controller, and at the same time. This opens up lot of possibilities for different kinds of game-playing experiences with the controller.

Most importantly, you won't be tied down to playing games on the TV; you will be able to play games on the go by taking the controller with you.

Nintendo demonstrated several new games for the U. The first is Chase Mii, a four-player hide-and-seek game where one player needs to hide from the rest within a maze. The three pursuers will need to co-operate and co-ordinate their searches to find the first player. On a whole, the game sort of plays like a game of Pac-Man, but with Mario-style visuals.

Another is Battle Mii, a third-person shooter for three players. In this one, two players in space suits team up against another that's in a gunship. Again, co-operation and communication is key if the two suited players are to successfully defeat their opponent.

But what got the crowd really excited at the Electronic Entertainment Expo here, the gaming industry's annual convention, was the Legend of Zelda game for the U.

It is Zelda like you've never seen it before, with glorious high-definition images and stunning detail, as well as dynamic lighting.

Sadly though, it was only a demonstration and not an actual release of the game. Also, the visuals were definitely a nod to recent Zelda titles, such as Twilight Princess.

Other games planned for the U include Assassin's Creed, Tekken, Ninja Gaiden and Darksiders 2.

The console is set to make its debut in the marketplace between April and December next year.

Source: Tech Central