*************Wii General**********************
1. What is the Nintendo Wii?
The Nintendo Wii is the latest games console from gaming giant Nintendo.
2. I thought that was the Revolution?
Yes, during its early development stage Nintendo chose the name ‘Revolution’ for the codename of their new console. On April 28, 2006 Nintendo announced the real name was ‘Wii’ and public uproar ensued.
3. What does the name Wii mean?
Here is Nintendo’s official explanation of the name Wii, and why they chose it as their name for the console:
"Introducing… Wii. As in “we.” While the code-name “Revolution” expressed our direction, Wii represents the answer. Wii will break down that wall that separates video game players from everybody else. Wii will put people more in touch with their games… and each other. But you’re probably asking: What does the name mean? Wii sounds like “we,” which emphasizes this console is for everyone. Wii can easily be remembered by people around the world, no matter what language they speak. No confusion. No need to abbreviate. Just Wii. Wii has a distinctive “ii” spelling that symbolizes both the unique controllers and the image of people gathering to play. And Wii, as a name and a console, brings something revolutionary to the world of video games that sets it apart from the crowd. So that’s Wii. But now Nintendo needs you. Because, it’s really not about you or me. It’s about Wii. And together, Wii will change everything."
4. When is the release date?
Ever since the E3 trades show, there has been plenty of discussion and speculation regarding the date for the Wii release. Predictions have ranged from late September to mid December.
The last official word on the release date was on July 6 2006 where a Nintendo spokesperson announced they will be revealing the exact date in September.
As of now (18th August 2006) it seems extremely likely this announcement will take place at the Leipzig Games Convention. Nintendo’s scheduled presentation there ‘"Wii Prove our Promise" is believed to finally lay to rest many of the rumors regarding the release date and Wii pricing.
The presentation is scheduled for August 23rd (4:15 a.m. EST).
6. How much will the games cost?
The general consensus is that pricing will be around the $60 mark. However, Satoru Iwata has spoken out on the subject (March 29 2006) revealing it is unlikely that first-party game titles will break the $50 price barrier.
7. How big is the console?
The Wii is Nintendo’s smallest console to-date. The console is approximately the size of three standard DVD cases stacked together in thickness.
8. How much will additional controllers cost?
No official word yet on the controller pricing however is widely expected to cost around $40-$50 with the inclusion of the nunchuck accessory. (This figure was based around previous pricing structures and the advanced technology in the controller)
9. Will there be different packages like the Xbox 360 and Playstation 3?
Currently there is no information to suggest different premium packages. Of course there will be different bundles available but this will centre on different gaming choices and will contain no variation in hardware.
10. Does the Wii have a built-in Projector?
No. This was a rumor that came around after the E3 show. There was much debate over what was under ‘flap’ on the console. It was rumored Nintendo were hiding a secret projection unit, this was not the case.
11. So what was under the flap then?
Just a slot for the SD Memory card
12. What will be included in the bundle?
No confirmation as of yet on specific Wii bundles. However it is widely believed that there will be a choice of packages, focusing on different gaming titles for the Wii. For example a Virtual Console bundle including the retro controller and SD memory card and some download credit.