
Nintendo has released first specs on its new Wii U console, giving in-depth information on the size and shape of the machine and its controller, the interfaces to the display and other connections to the outside world.
However, the released data gives away very little about the performance of the console, omitting any kind of detail on the graphics chip utilised and the make-up of the IBM CPU. Other important information – such as the resolution of the 6.2-inch 16:9 touchscreen are also omitted from the PDF contained in Nintendo’s official press pack.
Compatibility with the existing range of Wii controllers is confirmed though, and we also discover that additional peripherals in the pack include a Wii-style sensor bar plus a stylus for the touchscreen controller. Nintendo also reveals that the system uses its own proprietary “high density” discs – rumoured to be an off-shoot of Blu-ray technology. The actual capacity of these discs is not revealed.
HDMI is confirmed as the primary video interface and support for six channel (5.1) uncompressed audio is also mentioned – a step down from the 7.1 LPCM integrated into the PlayStation 3, but an upgrade on the Dolby Digital-only system employed in the Xbox 360.
The new controller incorporates a 6.2-inch, 16:9 touch screen and traditional button controls, including two analog Circle Pads. This combination removes the traditional barriers between games, players and the TV by creating a second window into the video game world. The rechargeable controller includes a Power button, Home button, +Control Pad, A/B/X/Y buttons, L/R buttons and ZL/ZR buttons. It includes a built-in accelerometer and gyroscope, rumble feature, camera, a microphone, stereo speakers, a sensor strip and a stylus.Confirmed games
Assassin’s Creed
Darksiders II
Ghost Recon
Dirt
Aliens: Colonial Marines
Metro II
Batman: Arkham City
Prototypes/Yet to be confirmed
Battlefield
New Super Mario Bros Mii