Yesterday Nintendo held a pre-recorded video-conference unveiling some new details about the Wii U. Today, Nintendo has sent out a press-release with a few extra facts about the new console, one of them stating that the Wii U will be fully backwards compatible with old the old Wii library.
Though this may not be too much of a shock, it is nice to have it in writing. Another great feature, also mentioned yesterday, is that all Nintendo made controllers for the Wii will also work with the Wii U.
In a prepared statement sent out to the press, Nintendo lists the features that were talked about yesterday in the press video:
New ways to play: With the television and the Wii U GamePad working as two integrated screens, Wii U creates unique possibilities for gaming, allowing “asymmetric†game play where each player can have different goals, challenges and views within the same shared gaming experience.
Miiverse: Miiverse is a brand-new network communication system that lets gamers from around the world share experiences, discuss games and discover new content. Using their personalized Mii character, players enter Miiverse and see games, applications or entertainment content that either they have interacted with recently, expressed interest in learning more about or that their friends are using or discussing. From here they can challenge their friends to play together, ask a question about a difficult level or discover new elements of their favorite games they never knew existed. After a notable achievement or other share-worthy moment, players can pause their game or application and seamlessly post messages to the Miiverse community.
Wii U GamePad controls: In addition to the previously announced touch-screen and motion controls, the Wii U GamePad was redesigned and improved from its reveal in 2011. The new form factor offers players dual analog stick controls and can be used as a remote control for users’ TVs, even while the Wii U console is turned off. Nintendo also announced availability of the Wii U Pro Controller as a separate peripheral.
Wii compatibility: All game discs for the Wii system are compatible with Wii U, and the system will support controllers for the Wii system.
If you missed the press-release, you can watch it in full on our site. There are also pictures of the Wii U, the new pro-wireless controller, and other shots from the video.
