The Student Pocket Guide | Nintendo Wii U: What can we Expect?
By Stuart Robinson

Controlled using a combination of the Wii Remote and the new tablet-esque GamePad, Nintendo’s new console is set to breathe new life into its highly popular concept. But while Nintendo are sticking with the original Wii controller, does the new GamePad suggest a possible step away from the motion-control world that we were introduced to with the Wii?

The Wii U is similar to a large Nintendo DS. With built in accelerometers, gyroscopes and sensors, a camera, speakers and a microphone, a 6.2 inch touchscreen, TV controls, near field communication (the tech which allows phones, bank cards etc. to interact wirelessly), and a heap of buttons including two clickable analogue sticks, the GamePad seems like it could be a console all on its own, but it combines with your TV to introduce a truly immersive gaming experience. With a screen in your hands, you are given more control over your viewing experience. You may never again have to pause the game to find out where you’re going, or be distracted by all the on screen clutter getting in your way. Two GamePads can be used per console, alongside four Wii Remotes, and the console also supports the Wii’s Nunchucks and Balance Boards, as well as a new Wii U Pro Controller.

While many of the upcoming games are controlled largely by the GamePad, some games have demonstrated how the combination of GamePads and Wii Remotes can mix up the multiplayer experience, such as the brilliant Nintendo Land, which looks set to be Nintendo’s next party hit.

Sony and Microsoft have both shown that motion controls are a great way to play, with their Playstation Move and Xbox Kinect add-ons, but with the motion controlled market now full of options, it looks like Nintendo may be about to bring us a whole new gaming revolution.

The Wii U also introduces Nintendo TVii, which will allow users to watch TV from video streaming services such as Netflix, as well as the users existing TV service, on either the TV or the GamePad. The GamePad can also be used as a TV guide system whilst watching programs. While the PS3 and Xbox 360 already offer film and TV streaming services, such as Netflix, LOVEFiLM and Sky, Nintendo TVii could offer viewers a more interactive and customisable viewing experience.

Release titles include New Super Mario Brothers U, Assassins Creed III, Just Dance 4, Call of Duty: Black Ops II and Nintendo Land. You can still play most of your original Wii games on the console, but unfortunately, unlike its big brother, the Wii U won’t be compatible with those classic Gamecube games, although many will be available to download on the Wii U along with much of Nintendo’s back catalogue.

Nintendo’s new console is an exciting new addition to the gaming market, and with its release on 30th November, we easily expect the Wii U to be a must have this Christmas.

Written by Stuart Robinson