Nintendo-Wii, the seventh generation video game system, was released by Nintendo in September 2006. The Wii video system pronounced “we” brings people of all ages and experiences together to play games. The evocative name coupled with the classic features, Nintendo Wii, has caused quite a stir in the video game industry and targets a broader segment of people than that occupied by Sony’s PlayStation 3 and Microsoft’s Xbox360. As of December 31, 2007, 20.13 million Nintendo Wiis have been sold.
Current bundle includes the following: Wii console, remote with strap, one Nunchuk, AC adapter, composite A/V cable, console stand, sensor bar and stand, two AA batteries, and sports game.
The most extraordinary feature of this game console is the wireless controller, Wii Remote and WiiConnect 24. Measuring 1.7 x 6.2 x 8.5 inches (44 x 157 x 215.4 mm) and a Weighing only 2.6 pounds (1.2 kg), Nintendo Wii comes as the smallest and lightest home game console among the top three players of 7th generation game consoles.
The Wii has a powerful 512 MB of internal flash memory, two USB 2.0 ports, and a slot for SD memory expansion. The SD card can be used for a variety of purposes, for example, backing up saved game data and downloaded Virtual Console games, uploading photos, creating custom in-game music, etc.
The heart of the system’s technology is a processing chip developed together with IBM and a graphics chip from ATI. The processor chip is called “Broadway” and the graphics chip is called “Hollywood”. It uses a single auto-loading media bay that plays both the Nintendo Gamecube discs and the 12-centimeter optical discs required for the new system.
The Wii Magic Remote has some amazing features. Accelerometers located inside the controller and infrared detector to detect position in 3D space can measure movements at all speeds and in all directions. In a driving game, it serves as a steering wheel. In the game of tennis, you can use this as your racket to get away and there are many more examples. The controller has an expansion port for use with accessories, as well as ‘Rumble’ force feedback features. The Wii Remote also has a small speaker in the center, allowing gamers to hear sounds programmed directly into the controller.
If you prefer the feel of a traditional controller, you can plug in an adapter that is readily available and easily fits the Wii Remote.
The Wii console is backwards compatible with Nintendo Gamecube software. The console can communicate with the Internet even when there is no power. You can also communicate with the Nintendo DS wirelessly without any accessories.
The WiiConnect 24 allows players to download over the Internet. Downloadable items can include weapons, new level costumes, etc. While WiiConnect 24 keeps the Wii powered up all day, it uses minimal power. However, players can disable this at any time.
The Wii operating system interface is divided into several smaller channels, designed similarly to television channels. Channels are graphically displayed on a grid and can be easily navigated using the Wii Remote. A short list of available channels is as follows: Forecast Channel, Photo Channel, News Channel, Virtual Console Channel(s), Wii Shop Channel, Internet Channel, Wii Message Board, Wii Feedback Channel, all and disk channel.
While playing offline, a maximum of four controllers can be used on the Wii. Instead of just focusing on expensive technology, Nintendo hopes to put an emphasis on gameplay and innovation with the Wii, and the company’s intention is to reach everyone, including fans.