Wii U owners can now download an update for their consoles. This is a major update that allows you to switch between applications faster, have better stability, and better performance. It will also prepare for the launch of the Wii U virtual console. The Wii U Panorama View launches soon as well.
Nintendo of America’s President and COO, Reggie Fils-Aime, voiced his thoughts on the Wii U updates stating, “Wii U continues to grow and evolve with new features that make it a better experience for everyone. Now Owners can navigate to their favorite games and services even faster, or play some of their favorite classic games.” This is what players can expect with the Wii U update:
- Shorter times for starting up the Wii U console, launching built-in applications, exiting software, returning to the menu, switching between applications and jumping between software and Miiverse
- During startup, when the Wii U logo is displayed, the player can immediately go to the Wii Menu by holding down the B Button on the Wii U GamePad
- Installing games and apps from the Nintendo eShop can be done while other software is being used
- Users won’t have to wait to turn off the Wii U if you have a long list of downloads/installations. The Wii U will go on standby mode and then power off when all downloads and installations are finished
- In Data Management users can transfer and copy data between two USB storage devices. In this way, users can upgrade or replace a current USB device that is connected to the Wii U
- When downloading multiple items you can control the priority of the downloads
- Nintendo Network IDs can now be displayed so users can easily distinguish between different accounts
- TV screen size can be adjusted in System Settings
- Undo/Redo button was added to Miiverse drawing input screen
The Wii U Virtual Console service will allow players to choose from a selection of NES and SNES games. Fan favorites include Balloon Fight, Donkey Kong, Donkey Kong Jr, Excitebike, F-Zero, Ice Climber, Kirby’s Adventure, Kirby Super Star, Mario Bros, Punch-Out!! Featuring Mr. Dream, Super Mario Bros. 2, Super Mario World, Super Metroid and Yoshi. Game Boy Advance and Nintendo 64 games will also be available for the Wii U Virtual Console at a later date. With the Virtual Console you will be able to save a back-up of your game progress, play off-TV on the Wii U GamePad and access the Miiverse Community. NES games will cost anywhere from $4.99 to $5.99 and SNES from $7.99 to $8.99. Those who already own the Wii version of the game can transfer them over to their Wii U consoles for free. However, if you want to take advantage of the upgraded features for the Wii U, you will have to purchase the games for a discounted price of $1 for NES and $1.50 for SNES.
Wii U Panorama View gives players the opportunity to view the world in the comfort of their own living rooms. You’ll be able to explore exotic locales like Kyoto, Japan and Ancona Italy. With the Wii U GamePad you have a 360 degree video guided tour. Players will be able to get a demo of the Wii U Panorama View for free from the Nintendo eShop. The full versions of each tour will be $2 each. Also, remember that Wii U has parental controls so you can block access to content for young children. For more information on the Wii U visit the website here: http://www.nintendo.com/wiiu.
