Difference between revisions of "Wii U"

From Mod My Classic Wiki
Jump to: navigation, search
(History)
 
(21 intermediate revisions by the same user not shown)
Line 4: Line 4:
 
| image = Wii U Console and Gamepad.png
 
| image = Wii U Console and Gamepad.png
 
| caption = A Wii U console <small>(right)</small> and [[Wii U GamePad]] <small>(left)</small>.
 
| caption = A Wii U console <small>(right)</small> and [[Wii U GamePad]] <small>(left)</small>.
| aka = Project Café <small>(code name)</small><ref>{{cite web|last=Purchese|first=Robert|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2011-06-07-nintendo-unveils-project-cafe-at-e3|title=Project Cafe becomes Wii U|publisher=Eurogamer|date=June 7, 2011|accessdate=January 31, 2015}}</ref>
+
| aka = Project Café <small>(code name)</small>
 
| developer = [[Nintendo Integrated Research & Development|Nintendo IRD]], [[Nintendo Technology Development|NTD]]
 
| developer = [[Nintendo Integrated Research & Development|Nintendo IRD]], [[Nintendo Technology Development|NTD]]
| manufacturer = [[Nintendo]], [[Foxconn]], [[Mitsumi]]<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2012/10/17/iphone-wii-u-manufacturer-admits-to-employing-children|title=iPhone, Wii U Manufacturer Admits to Employing Children|publisher=[[IGN]]|date=October 17, 2012|accessdate=October 17, 2012}}</ref>
+
| manufacturer = [[Nintendo]], [[Foxconn]], [[Mitsumi]]
 
| family =
 
| family =
 
| type = [[Home video game console]]
 
| type = [[Home video game console]]
 
| generation = [[Eighth generation of video game consoles|Eighth generation]]
 
| generation = [[Eighth generation of video game consoles|Eighth generation]]
| releasedate = {{Video game release|[[United States of America|US]] / [[Canada|CA]]|November 18, 2012|[[Mexico|MEX]] / [[South Africa|SA]]|November 29, 2012|[[Europe|EU]] / [[Australasia|AU]]|November 30, 2012|JP|December 8, 2012|BR|November 26, 2013}}
+
| releasedate = [[United States of America|US]] / [[Canada|CA]]: November 18, 2012<br />[[Mexico|MEX]] / [[South Africa|SA]]: November 29, 2012<br />[[Europe|EU]] / [[Australasia|AU]]: November 30, 2012<br />JP: December 8, 2012<br />BR: November 26, 2013
 
| lifespan = 2012–2017
 
| lifespan = 2012–2017
 
| price = [[US$]]299/[[¥]]26,250 <small>(Basic Set)</small><br />US$349/¥31,500 <small>(Deluxe/Premium Set)</small>
 
| price = [[US$]]299/[[¥]]26,250 <small>(Basic Set)</small><br />US$349/¥31,500 <small>(Deluxe/Premium Set)</small>
| discontinued = {{Video game release|WW|January 31, 2017}}
+
| discontinued = WW: January 31, 2017
| unitssold = '''Worldwide:''' 13.56&nbsp;million<br /><small>({{as of|2017|03|31|lc=y|df=US}})</small><ref name="Hardware Software Sales">{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/en/sales/hard_soft/index.html|title=IR Information : Sales Data – Hardware and Software Sales Units|publisher=Nintendo Co., Ltd.|accessdate=March 31, 2017}}</ref>
+
| unitssold = '''Worldwide:''' 13.56&nbsp;million<br /><small>(2017-03-31)</small>
 
| unitsshipped =
 
| unitsshipped =
| media = {{collapsible list|titlestyle=font-weight:normal;background:transparent;text-align:left|title=Physical and digital|
+
| media = Physical and digital
 
* [[Wii U Optical Disc]] <small>(25&nbsp;GB)</small>
 
* [[Wii U Optical Disc]] <small>(25&nbsp;GB)</small>
 
* [[Wii Optical Disc]] <small>(4.7&nbsp;GB/8.54&nbsp;GB)</small>
 
* [[Wii Optical Disc]] <small>(4.7&nbsp;GB/8.54&nbsp;GB)</small>
* [[Digital distribution in video games|Digital distribution]] <small>([[Nintendo eShop]])</small>}}
+
* [[Digital distribution in video games|Digital distribution]] <small>([[Nintendo eShop]])</small>
 
| os = [[Wii U system software]]
 
| os = [[Wii U system software]]
 
| power = 75&nbsp;[[Watt|W]]
 
| power = 75&nbsp;[[Watt|W]]
Line 27: Line 27:
 
| storage = Internal [[flash memory]]:<br />8&nbsp;[[Gigabyte|GB]] <small>(Basic Set)</small> / 32&nbsp;[[Gigabyte|GB]] <small>(Deluxe Set)</small><br />[[Secure Digital|SD]]/[[SDHC]] card<br />[[Universal Serial Bus|USB]] storage device
 
| storage = Internal [[flash memory]]:<br />8&nbsp;[[Gigabyte|GB]] <small>(Basic Set)</small> / 32&nbsp;[[Gigabyte|GB]] <small>(Deluxe Set)</small><br />[[Secure Digital|SD]]/[[SDHC]] card<br />[[Universal Serial Bus|USB]] storage device
 
| memory card =
 
| memory card =
| display = {{Collapsible list|title= Video output formats
+
| display = Video output formats<br />
| [[Composite video]]
+
[[Composite video]]
 
* [[S-Video]] <small>(480i)</small>
 
* [[S-Video]] <small>(480i)</small>
 
* [[RGBS|RGB]] [[SCART]] <small>(480i, [[576i]])</small>
 
* [[RGBS|RGB]] [[SCART]] <small>(480i, [[576i]])</small>
 
  [[Component video]]
 
  [[Component video]]
* [[YPbPr|{{YPbPr}}]]
+
* [[YPbPr]]
 
* [[D-Terminal]]
 
* [[D-Terminal]]
 
:<small>(480i, [[480p]], [[720p]], [[1080i]], [[1080p]])</small>
 
:<small>(480i, [[480p]], [[720p]], [[1080i]], [[1080p]])</small>
 
[[HDMI]] <small>(480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p)</small>
 
[[HDMI]] <small>(480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p)</small>
}}
 
 
  [[Wii U GamePad]] <small>([[FWVGA]])</small>
 
  [[Wii U GamePad]] <small>([[FWVGA]])</small>
 
| graphics = 550&nbsp;MHz [[AMD]] [[Radeon]] "[[Latte (graphics chip)|Latte]]"
 
| graphics = 550&nbsp;MHz [[AMD]] [[Radeon]] "[[Latte (graphics chip)|Latte]]"
 
| sound = [[5.1 surround sound|5.1]] [[Linear pulse-code modulation|Linear PCM]], [[Stereophonic sound|Analog stereo]]
 
| sound = [[5.1 surround sound|5.1]] [[Linear pulse-code modulation|Linear PCM]], [[Stereophonic sound|Analog stereo]]
 
| input =
 
| input =
| controllers = [[Wii U GamePad]], [[Wii U Pro Controller]],
+
| controllers = [[Wii U GamePad]], [[Wii U Pro Controller]], [[Wii Remote]] ([[Wii Remote Plus|Plus]])
{{collapsible list|title=[[Wii Remote]] ([[Wii Remote Plus|Plus]])|titlestyle=font-weight:normal;background:transparent;text-align:left|
 
|
 
 
* [[Wii Nunchuk|Nunchuk]] attachment
 
* [[Wii Nunchuk|Nunchuk]] attachment
 
* [[Classic Controller]] attachment
 
* [[Classic Controller]] attachment
 
  [[Wii Balance Board]]
 
  [[Wii Balance Board]]
}}
 
 
| camera = 1.3 [[Megapixels]] <small>(Wii U GamePad)</small>
 
| camera = 1.3 [[Megapixels]] <small>(Wii U GamePad)</small>
 
| touchpad = [[Resistive touchscreen]] <small>(Wii U GamePad)</small>
 
| touchpad = [[Resistive touchscreen]] <small>(Wii U GamePad)</small>
| connectivity = [[Wi-Fi]] [[IEEE 802.11]] [[IEEE 802.11b-1999|b]]/[[IEEE 802.11g-2003|g]]/[[IEEE 802.11n-2009|n]]<br />[[Bluetooth 4.0]]<ref name=bluetooth/><br />4 × [[USB 2.0]]
+
| connectivity = [[Wi-Fi]] [[IEEE 802.11]] [[IEEE 802.11b-1999|b]]/[[IEEE 802.11g-2003|g]]/[[IEEE 802.11n-2009|n]]<br />[[Bluetooth 4.0]]<br />4 × [[USB 2.0]]
 
| platform =
 
| platform =
| service = {{collapsible list|title=[[Nintendo Network]]|titlestyle=font-weight:normal;background:transparent;text-align:left|
+
| service = [[Nintendo Network]]
 
* [[Nintendo eShop]]
 
* [[Nintendo eShop]]
 
* [[Nintendo Network#Miiverse|Miiverse]] (discontinued)
 
* [[Nintendo Network#Miiverse|Miiverse]] (discontinued)
 
* [[Nintendo Network#Nintendo TVii|Nintendo TVii]] (discontinued)
 
* [[Nintendo Network#Nintendo TVii|Nintendo TVii]] (discontinued)
 
* [[Nintendo Network#Wii U Chat|Wii U Chat]] (discontinued)
 
* [[Nintendo Network#Wii U Chat|Wii U Chat]] (discontinued)
}}
 
 
| dimensions = '''Width:''' {{convert|17.2|cm|in|abbr=on}}<br />'''Height:''' {{convert|4.6|cm|in|abbr=on}}<br />'''Length:''' {{convert|26.9|cm|in|abbr=on}}
 
| dimensions = '''Width:''' {{convert|17.2|cm|in|abbr=on}}<br />'''Height:''' {{convert|4.6|cm|in|abbr=on}}<br />'''Length:''' {{convert|26.9|cm|in|abbr=on}}
 
| weight = {{convert|1.5|kg}}
 
| weight = {{convert|1.5|kg}}
| topgame = ''[[Mario Kart 8]]'', 8.42 million<br /><small>({{as of|2018|03|31|lc=y|df=US}})</small><ref name="Wii U best-selling games"/>
+
| topgame = ''[[Mario Kart 8]]'', 8.42 million<br /><small>(2018-03-31)</small>
 
| compatibility = [[Wii]]<!-- Do not list Virtual Console service here, as it is software emulation -->
 
| compatibility = [[Wii]]<!-- Do not list Virtual Console service here, as it is software emulation -->
 
| predecessor = Wii<!-- Stop linking this. It is already linked above. See [[WP:MOS]] for more info. -->
 
| predecessor = Wii<!-- Stop linking this. It is already linked above. See [[WP:MOS]] for more info. -->
 
| successor = [[Nintendo Switch]]
 
| successor = [[Nintendo Switch]]
 
| related =
 
| related =
| website = {{URL|www.nintendo.com/wiiu}}
+
| website = [https://www.nintendo.com/wiiu https://www.nintendo.com/wiiu]
 
| title = Nintendo Wii U
 
| title = Nintendo Wii U
 
}}
 
}}
Line 71: Line 66:
 
=Introduction=
 
=Introduction=
  
The '''Wii U''' ({{IPAc-en|ˌ|w|iː|_|ˈ|j|uː}} {{respell|WEE|_|YOO}}) is<!--Do NOT change to "was". This violates [[MOS:TENSE]], which specifies that all articles on video game consoles are written in present tense, even if discontinued.--> a [[home video game console]] developed by [[Nintendo]], and the successor to the [[Wii]].<ref name="codename">{{cite web|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/116/1162045p1.html|title='Wii 2' Codenamed 'Project Café'|date=April 15, 2011|publisher=IGN|accessdate=April 16, 2011|archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/69bbVT4QO?url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/116/1162045p1.html#|archive-date=August 2, 2012|dead-url=yes}}</ref> The console was released in November 2012<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.metro.co.uk/tech/games/888470-wii-u-confirmed-for-europe-this-year|title=Wii U confirmed for Europe this year|date=January 26, 2012|newspaper=Metro}}</ref><ref name=pricerelease>{{cite web|url=http://wiiu.dcemu.co.uk/wiiu-price-and-release-date-announced-491879.html| title=WiiU Price and Release Date Announced| publisher=WiiU News | date=September 13, 2012 | accessdate=September 13, 2012}}</ref> and was the first [[eighth generation of video game consoles|eighth-generation video game console]],<ref>{{cite news|title=Nintendo's Project Cafe: Will Gamers Feel The Buzz?|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/nintendos-project-cafe-will-gamers-feel-the-buzz-2011-5|accessdate=June 11, 2011|newspaper=Business Insider}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Weekend Hot Topic, Part 2: Xbox 720 and PlayStation 4|url=http://www.metro.co.uk/tech/games/864607-weekend-hot-topic-part-2-xbox-720-and-playstation-4|publisher=Metro.co.uk|accessdate=June 11, 2011}}</ref> as it competed with [[Microsoft]]'s [[Xbox One]] and [[Sony Interactive Entertainment|Sony]]'s [[PlayStation 4]].
+
The '''Wii U''' is<!--Do NOT change to "was". This violates [[MOS:TENSE]], which specifies that all articles on video game consoles are written in present tense, even if discontinued.--> a [[home video game console]] developed by [[Nintendo]], and the successor to the [[Wii]]. The console was released in November 2012 and was the first [[eighth generation of video game consoles|eighth-generation video game console]], as it competed with [[Microsoft]]'s [[Xbox One]] and [[Sony Interactive Entertainment|Sony]]'s [[PlayStation 4]].
  
 
The Wii U is the first Nintendo console to support [[High-definition video|HD]] [[Video game graphics|graphics]]. The system's primary [[Gamepad|controller]] is the [[Wii U GamePad]], which features an embedded [[touchscreen]], and combines directional buttons, analog sticks, and action buttons. The screen can be used either as a supplement to the main display (either providing an alternate, [[wikt:asymmetric|asymmetric]] gameplay experience, or a means of local multiplayer without resorting to a [[Split screen (computer graphics)|split screen]]), or in supported games, to [[Off-TV Play|play the game directly on the GamePad independently of the television]]. The Wii U is [[Backward compatibility|backward compatible]] with all Wii software and accessories – games can support any combination of the GamePad, [[Wii Remote]], [[Wii Nunchuk|Nunchuk]], [[Wii Balance Board|Balance Board]], or Nintendo's more traditionally designed [[Classic Controller]] or [[Wii U Pro Controller]] for input. Online functionality centers around the [[Nintendo Network]] platform and [[Nintendo Network#Miiverse|Miiverse]], an integrated [[social networking service]] which allows users to share content in game-specific communities.
 
The Wii U is the first Nintendo console to support [[High-definition video|HD]] [[Video game graphics|graphics]]. The system's primary [[Gamepad|controller]] is the [[Wii U GamePad]], which features an embedded [[touchscreen]], and combines directional buttons, analog sticks, and action buttons. The screen can be used either as a supplement to the main display (either providing an alternate, [[wikt:asymmetric|asymmetric]] gameplay experience, or a means of local multiplayer without resorting to a [[Split screen (computer graphics)|split screen]]), or in supported games, to [[Off-TV Play|play the game directly on the GamePad independently of the television]]. The Wii U is [[Backward compatibility|backward compatible]] with all Wii software and accessories – games can support any combination of the GamePad, [[Wii Remote]], [[Wii Nunchuk|Nunchuk]], [[Wii Balance Board|Balance Board]], or Nintendo's more traditionally designed [[Classic Controller]] or [[Wii U Pro Controller]] for input. Online functionality centers around the [[Nintendo Network]] platform and [[Nintendo Network#Miiverse|Miiverse]], an integrated [[social networking service]] which allows users to share content in game-specific communities.
  
The Wii U was met with a generally positive reception, including praise for its GamePad controller, improvements to online functionality over the Wii, backwards compatibility with existing Wii software and controllers, affordability in comparison to other eighth-generation consoles, and non-reliance on a subscription for online functionality. However, the Wii U received criticism in several areas, including the GamePad's battery life and issues with the console's user interface and functionality, along with a weak lineup of launch titles and a lack of clear vision.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/nintendo-switch-wii-u-failure-success-2017-10|title=Nintendo learned from 2 huge mistakes with the Wii U to make the Switch a runaway success|last=Gilbert|first=Ben|date=October 9, 2017|newspaper=Business Insider}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/nintendo-switch-saved-nintendo-from-irrelevancy-2017-12|title=Nintendo started 2017 as a punching bag — and ended up with the hottest gadget of the year|last=Weinberger|first=Matt|date=December 31, 2017|newspaper=Business Insider}}</ref> The Wii U was met with [[List of commercial failures in video gaming|slow consumer adoption]], with low sales  primarily credited to a weak lineup of [[launch title]]s,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://twinfinite.net/2016/03/every-single-way-the-nintendo-wii-u-failed/|title=Every Single Way the Nintendo Wii U Failed|last=Romero|first=Ishmael|date=March 2, 2016|publisher=Twinfinite}}</ref> limited third-party support,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://videogamesuncovered.com/features/why-the-wii-u-really-failed/|title=Why the Wii U Really Failed|last=Gittins|first=Liam|date=July 3, 2015|publisher=VGU}}</ref> and poor marketing.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.polygon.com/2014/8/5/5970787/wii-u-nintendo-bad-name|title=The Wii U name is still hurting Nintendo|first=Ben|last=Kuchera|date=August 5, 2014|publisher=Polygon}}</ref> Wii U production officially ended in January 2017.<ref name="kotaku eol">{{Cite news |url=http://kotaku.com/wii-u-production-has-officially-ended-for-japan-1791813878 |title=Wii U Production Has Officially Ended For Japan [Update] |last=Ashcraft |first=Brian |date=January 31, 2017 |publisher=Kotaku |access-date=January 31, 2017}}</ref> On March 3, 2017, Nintendo released a new flagship home console, the [[Nintendo Switch]], although the Wii U was noted for pioneering several concepts that were refined in the Switch.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://mashable.com/2018/01/31/nintendo-switch-wii-u-failure-success/#KvMr7kP1Ziq3|title=Thank Nintendo's failed Wii U for the Switch's wild success|last=Clark|first=Peter Allen|date=January 31, 2018|publisher=Mashable}}</ref>
+
The Wii U was met with a generally positive reception, including praise for its GamePad controller, improvements to online functionality over the Wii, backwards compatibility with existing Wii software and controllers, affordability in comparison to other eighth-generation consoles, and non-reliance on a subscription for online functionality. However, the Wii U received criticism in several areas, including the GamePad's battery life and issues with the console's user interface and functionality, along with a weak lineup of launch titles and a lack of clear vision. The Wii U was met with [[List of commercial failures in video gaming|slow consumer adoption]], with low sales  primarily credited to a weak lineup of [[launch title]]s, limited third-party support, and poor marketing. Wii U production officially ended in January 2017. On March 3, 2017, Nintendo released a new flagship home console, the [[Nintendo Switch]], although the Wii U was noted for pioneering several concepts that were refined in the Switch.
 
 
{{TOC level|3}}
 
 
 
== Release ==
 
The Wii U was originally released in two bundles: the Basic bundle and the Deluxe <small>(U.S.)</small> / Premium <small>(WW)</small> bundle. The Basic bundle contains a white Wii U with 8&nbsp;GB of storage, a white [[Wii U GamePad]] and stylus and an HDMI cable, while the Deluxe <small>(U.S.)</small> / Premium <small>(WW)</small> contains a black Wii U with 32&nbsp;GB of storage, a black GamePad and stylus, an HDMI cable, and adds a [[Nintendo Network#Nintendo Network Premium|Nintendo Network Premium]] subscription, the ''[[Nintendo Land]]'' game (except Japan), as well as stands for the console and controller and a [[Wii Sensor Bar|sensor bar]] (except Japan).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://nintendowiiu.com/wii-u-price-and-release-date-just-announced/ |title=Wii U Price And Release Date Just Announced |last=White |first=Mike |date=September 12, 2012 |publisher=NintendoWiiU.com |accessdate=September 15, 2012 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130926032226/http://nintendowiiu.com/wii-u-price-and-release-date-just-announced/ |archivedate=September 26, 2013 }}</ref><ref name="wired">{{cite news|url=https://www.wired.com/gamelife/2012/09/wii-u-liveblog-us/|title=Wii U Will Ship in North America Nov. 18 In $300, $350 Bundles|last=Kohler|first=Chris|date=September 13, 2012|publisher=Wired.com|accessdate=September 15, 2012}}</ref> The Wii U launched in North America priced at [[US$]]299.99 for the Basic Set and US$349.99 for the Deluxe Set.  The system launched in Europe, Australia and South Africa, with European pricing set by retailers.<ref name="south africa launch">{{cite web|title=Wii U to launch in South Africa with 17 games available on launch day|url=http://www.nintendo.co.za/News/2012/Wii-U-to-launch-in-South-Africa-with-17-games-available-on-launch-day-675154.html|publisher=Nintendo of Europe|accessdate=November 30, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vooks.net/wii-u-out-in-australia-on-november-30th-349-and-429/|title=Wii U out in Australia on November 30th, $349 and $429|publisher=Vooks|accessdate=September 15, 2012}}</ref> The system launched in Japan priced at [[¥]]26,250 for the Basic Set and [[¥]]31,500 for the Premium Set.
 
 
 
=== Retail configurations ===
 
<!-- White 32 GB model -->
 
On July 13, 2013, Nintendo released a white version of the Premium Pack in Japan, as well as an official battery pack and charger dock for the Wii Remote. The battery pack is capable of about 3 hours of gameplay before needing to be recharged. On July 25, the company released an improved battery pack for the Wii U GamePad. In contrast to the standard 1500mAh battery bundled with the console, the new 2550mAh battery pack increases longevity to between five and eight hours before needing to be recharged.<ref>[http://uk.ign.com/articles/2013/05/30/improved-wii-u-gamepad-battery-and-more-headed-to-japan Improved Wii U GamePad Battery and More Headed to Japan – IGN]. Uk.ign.com. Retrieved on August 23, 2013.</ref>
 
 
 
<!-- Price drop and bundles-->
 
On August 28, 2013, Nintendo announced that the Deluxe <small>(U.S.)</small> / Premium <small>(WW)</small> 32 GB model would drop in price from US$349.99 to US$299.99 in North America. The price drop took effect on September 20, 2013.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/wii-u-getting-price-cut-september-20-6413745 |title=Wii U getting price cut September 20 |publisher=GameSpot.com |date=August 28, 2013 |accessdate=September 21, 2013}}</ref> In Europe, Nintendo didn't confirm a formal price cut since individual retailers set their own prices. However, starting October 4, 2013, the company reduced the wholesale price of the system to retailers.<ref name="EU price cut">{{cite web|last1=Whitehead|first1=Thomas|title=Nintendo Confirms Wii U "Price Reduction Initiative" in Europe from 4th October|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2013/08/nintendo_confirms_wii_u_price_reduction_initiative_in_europe_from_4th_october|website=Nintendo Life|publisher=Nintendo Life|accessdate=July 23, 2014}}</ref> Coinciding with the system's price cut, Nintendo released a limited edition ''[[The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD]]'' Wii U Deluxe Set bundle. The bundle included a black Wii U console with 32&nbsp;GB of storage, a black Wii U GamePad decorated with a golden [[Triforce]] and other thematic symbols, a download code for the game and, in North America, a digital copy of ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Hyrule Historia]]'', a collector's book about ''[[The Legend of Zelda]]'' series.<ref name="EU price cut" /><ref>{{cite web|last1=Corriea|first1=Alexa|title=The Wind Waker HD Wii U bundle coming Sept. 20|url=http://www.polygon.com/2013/8/28/4667836/the-wind-waker-hd-wii-u-bundle-coming-sept-20|website=Polygon|publisher=Polygon|accessdate=July 23, 2014}}</ref> In Europe, Nintendo also released a limited edition ''[[Lego City Undercover]]'' Wii U Premium Pack bundle. Both European bundles featured a 7-day trial of the ''[[Wii Karaoke U]]'' service.<ref name="EU price cut" /> Nintendo did not cut the price of the Wii U in Australia or New Zealand nor did it release any of the previous bundles in the regions.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Vuckovic|first1=Daniel|title=No Wii U price drop for Australia or New Zealand|url=http://www.vooks.net/no-wii-u-price-drop-for-australia-or-new-zealand/|website=Vooks|publisher=Vooks|accessdate=July 23, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Vuckovic|first1=Daniel|title=No Wind Waker HD Wii U bundle or Limited Edition for Australia|url=http://www.vooks.net/no-wind-waker-hd-wii-u-bundle-or-limited-edition-for-australia/|website=Vooks|publisher=Vooks|accessdate=July 23, 2014}}</ref>
 
 
 
<!-- Family Set bundles -->
 
On October 31, 2013, Nintendo introduced two new Wii U Premium Pack bundles in Japan, called Family Set. The first included either a black or white Wii U console with 32&nbsp;GB of storage, a black or white Wii U GamePad, ''[[New Super Mario Bros. U]]'' and ''[[Wii Party U]]'' preloaded, a black or white [[Wii Remote]], a [[Wii Sensor Bar]], and a 30-day trial of the ''[[Wii Karaoke U]]'' service. The second bundle included all of the previous one's contents, additionally preloaded with ''[[Wii Fit U]]'' and including Nintendo's official Fit Meter [[pedometer]] (with the [[Wii Balance Board]] available separately).<ref>{{cite web|title=Wii U すぐに遊べる ファミリープレミアムセット|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/wiiu/hardware/familyset/|website=Nintendo Japan|publisher=Nintendo|accessdate=July 19, 2014|language=Japanese}}</ref>
 
 
 
<!-- Holiday bundles -->
 
On November 1, 2013, Nintendo released a Mario & Luigi Deluxe Set in North America with the intention of replacing the original Wii U Deluxe Set, which included a copy of ''[[Nintendo Land]]''. The Mario & Luigi bundle contains both ''[[New Super Mario Bros. U]]'' and ''[[New Super Luigi U]]'' packaged as a "2 in 1" disc alongside a black Wii U console with 32&nbsp;GB of storage and black Wii U GamePad controller.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Goldfarb|first1=Andrew|title=New Wii U Deluxe Bundle Includes New Super Mario U, Luigi U|url=http://uk.ign.com/articles/2013/10/23/new-wii-u-deluxe-bundle-includes-new-super-mario-u-luigi-u|website=IGN UK|publisher=IGN|accessdate=July 23, 2014}}</ref> The bundle was later released in Europe on November 8.<ref name="EU bundles 2013">{{cite web|last1=East|first1=Thomas|title=Nintendo announce three new Wii U bundles for Christmas|url=http://www.officialnintendomagazine.co.uk/55214/nintendo-announce-three-new-wii-u-bundles-for-christmas/|website=Official Nintendo Magazine|publisher=Official Nintendo Magazine|accessdate=July 23, 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20141110043612/http://www.officialnintendomagazine.co.uk/55214/nintendo-announce-three-new-wii-u-bundles-for-christmas/|archivedate=November 10, 2014|deadurl=no}}</ref> On November 14, Nintendo released a ''[[Just Dance 2014]]'' Basic Pack bundle in Australia and New Zealand. It contains a white Wii U console with 8&nbsp;GB of storage, a white Wii U GamePad and Wii Remote Plus controllers, a Sensor Bar, and disc versions of both [[Ubisoft]]'s ''Just Dance 2014'' and ''Nintendo Land''.<ref name="AUS bundles 2013">{{cite web|last1=Southcott|first1=Chris|title=New Wii U bundles coming to Australia, but still no price drop|url=http://techgeek.com.au/2013/10/31/new-wii-u-bundles-coming-australia-still-price-drop/|website=TechGeek|publisher=TechGeek|accessdate=July 23, 2014}}</ref> The bundle was later released in Europe on November 22.<ref name="EU bundles 2013" /> On November 15, Nintendo released a ''[[Wii Party U]]'' Wii U Basic Pack bundle in Europe. It features a white Wii U console with 8&nbsp;GB of storage, a white Wii U GamePad and Wii Remote Plus controllers, a Sensor Bar, and disc versions of both ''Wii Party U'' and ''Nintendo Land''.<ref name="EU bundles 2013" /> On November 15, Nintendo also released a ''[[Skylanders: Swap Force]]'' Wii U Basic Set bundle in North America. It contains white Wii U with 8&nbsp;GB of storage, [[Activision]]'s ''Skylanders Swap Force'' game, a Portal of Power, three Skylanders figures, a collector poster, trading cards and sticker sheets, and a ''Nintendo Land'' game disc.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Whitehead|first1=Thomas|title=Nintendo Announces Skylanders SWAP Force Wii U Hardware Bundle|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2013/10/nintendo_announces_skylanders_swap_force_wii_u_hardware_bundle|website=Nintendo Life|publisher=Nintendo Life|accessdate=July 23, 2014}}</ref> The bundle was released in Australia and New Zealand on November 21.<ref name="AUS bundles 2013" />
 
 
 
<!-- Brazil -->
 
On November 26, 2013, the Wii U was released in Brazil. However, the system is only available in the black Deluxe Set in the region.<ref name="brazil launch">{{cite web|last=Azevedo|first=Théo|title=Mais caro do mundo, Wii U sai no Brasil por R$ 1.899 em 26/11|url=http://jogos.uol.com.br/ultimas-noticias/2013/11/07/mais-caro-do-mundo-wii-u-sai-no-brasil-por-r-1899-em-2611.htm|publisher=UOL Jogos|accessdate=November 7, 2013|language=Portuguese}}</ref> On January 10, 2015, Nintendo announced that it would cease selling consoles and games in Brazil due to the [[Brazil cost|high cost of doing business in the country]].<ref name=polygon-nintendobrazil>{{cite web|title=Nintendo ends console and game distribution in Brazil, citing high taxes|url=http://www.polygon.com/2015/1/10/7524759/nintendo-brazil-wii-u-3ds-tariffs-taxes|website=Polygon|accessdate=January 10, 2015}}</ref>
 
 
 
<!-- Mario Kart 8 bundle -->
 
On May 30, 2014, Nintendo released a ''[[Mario Kart 8]]'' Deluxe <small>(U.S.)</small> / Premium <small>(WW)</small> Set bundle in Europe and North America. It features a black Wii U console with 32&nbsp;GB of storage, a black Wii U GamePad, a copy of ''Mario Kart 8'', a Sensor Bar, and special edition red [[Wii Wheel]] (North America only). Additionally, registering the game on [[Club Nintendo]] before July 31, 2014 presents the buyer a free Wii U game from a selection of four in North America and ten in Europe.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Dyer|first1=Mitch|title=Mario Kart 8 Bundle Announced for North America|url=http://uk.ign.com/articles/2014/04/30/mario-kart-8-bundle-announced-for-north-america|website=IGN UK|publisher=IGN|accessdate=July 23, 2014}}</ref><ref name="EU Mario Kart 8 bundle">{{cite web|last1=Corriea|first1=Alexa|title=Mario Kart 8 Wii U bundle, Peach and Yoshi Wii Remotes hitting Europe May 30|url=http://www.polygon.com/2014/4/24/5646850/mario-kart-8-wii-u-bundles-peach-yoshi-remotes-europe|work=Polygon|accessdate=July 23, 2014}}</ref> The bundle was released in Australia and New Zealand on May 31.<ref name="AUS Mario Kart 8 bundle">{{cite web|last1=Sobrello|first1=Andrew|title=Mario Kart 8 Premium Wii U Bundle, new Wii Remote Plus designs confirmed for Australia|url=http://techgeek.com.au/2014/04/25/mario-kart-8-premium-wii-u-bundle-new-wii-remote-plus-designs-confirmed-australia/|work=TechGeek|accessdate=July 23, 2014}}</ref>
 
  
In June 2015, the basic Wii U was discontinued in Japan, and replaced by a 32&nbsp;GB "Premium" set that includes white hardware and a Wii Remote Plus.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2015/05/21/basic-wii-u-model-to-be-discontinued-in-japan|title=Basic Wii U to be discontinued in Japan|publisher=Wesley Copeland|work=IGN|accessdate=May 22, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2015/05/21/nintendo-kills-off-the-basic-wii-u-in-japan/|title=Nintendo kills off the basic Wii U in Japan|first=Steve|last=Dent|work=Engadget|accessdate=May 22, 2015}}</ref>
+
=Specifications=
  
 
== Hardware ==
 
== Hardware ==
 
[[File:Nintendo-Wii-U-Console-FL.jpg|link=File:Nintendo-Wii-U-Console-FL.jpg|thumb|right|The black Wii U console, with 32 GB of internal storage.]]
 
[[File:Nintendo-Wii-U-Console-FL.jpg|link=File:Nintendo-Wii-U-Console-FL.jpg|thumb|right|The black Wii U console, with 32 GB of internal storage.]]
{{see_also|Espresso (microprocessor)}}
 
  
The Wii U uses a custom [[multi-chip module]] (MCM) developed by [[AMD]], [[IBM]] and [[Renesas]] in co-operation with [[Nintendo Integrated Research & Development|Nintendo IRD]] and [[Nintendo Technology Development]]. The MCM combines an "[[Espresso (microprocessor)|Espresso]]" [[central processing unit]] (CPU) and a "Latte" [[graphics processing unit|graphics chip]] (GPU), as well as a [[SEEPROM]] memory chip.<ref name="Iwata Asks: Wii U 1" /><ref name=fail0verflow /> The Espresso CPU, designed by IBM, consists of a [[PowerPC 750]]-based tri-core processor with 3&nbsp;MB of shared [[L2 cache]] memory and clocked at approximately 1.24&nbsp;GHz.<ref name="Official specs"/><ref name="clock speeds"/>{{efn|Neither Nintendo, IBM nor AMD has revealed detailed specifications, such as the number of cores, [[clock rate]], or cache sizes.|name="Unconfirmed hardware"}} Despite belonging to the [[PowerPC]] family, the Espresso also shares some architectural concepts with the [[POWER7]] architecture, such as the use of [[eDRAM]] cache and being manufactured at a [[45 nanometer|45&nbsp;nm]] node.<ref name="IBM CPU specs"/><ref name=Watson />{{efn|Official reports made by [[IBM]] only confirm that the chip contains "a lot" of eDRAM and "the same processor technology found in [[Watson (computer)|Watson]]".<ref name=Watson/>|name="Unconfirmed cache"}} The Latte graphics chip contains both a "GX2" GPGPU, which runs Wii U applications, and a "GX" GPU, which enables backward compatibility with [[Wii]] games. The GX2, designed by AMD, is based on the [[Radeon R600]]/[[Radeon R700|R700]] architecture and is clocked at approximately 550&nbsp;MHz.<ref name=fail0verflow /><ref name="clock speeds" />{{efn|name="Unconfirmed hardware"}} It is manufactured at a 40&nbsp;nm node and contains 32&nbsp;MB of eDRAM cache memory, which can also act as [[L3 cache]] for the CPU.{{efn|name="Unconfirmed hardware"}} The GX, originally designed by [[ArtX]], contains a 1&nbsp;MB and a 2&nbsp;MB banks of [[eSRAM]] cache memory.<ref name=fail0verflow /> The Latte chip also includes a secondary custom [[ARM9]] processor with 96&nbsp;KB of SRAM memory that handles system tasks in the background during gameplay or while the system is in [[sleep mode]], and dedicated hardware audio [[Digital signal processor|DSP]] module.<ref name=fail0verflow />
+
The Wii U uses a custom [[multi-chip module]] (MCM) developed by [[AMD]], [[IBM]] and [[Renesas]] in co-operation with [[Nintendo Integrated Research & Development|Nintendo IRD]] and [[Nintendo Technology Development]]. The MCM combines an "[[Espresso (microprocessor)|Espresso]]" [[central processing unit]] (CPU) and a "Latte" [[graphics processing unit|graphics chip]] (GPU), as well as a [[SEEPROM]] memory chip. The Espresso CPU, designed by IBM, consists of a [[PowerPC 750]]-based tri-core processor with 3&nbsp;MB of shared [[L2 cache]] memory and clocked at approximately 1.24&nbsp;GHz. Despite belonging to the [[PowerPC]] family, the Espresso also shares some architectural concepts with the [[POWER7]] architecture, such as the use of [[eDRAM]] cache and being manufactured at a [[45 nanometer|45&nbsp;nm]] node. The Latte graphics chip contains both a "GX2" GPGPU, which runs Wii U applications, and a "GX" GPU, which enables backward compatibility with [[Wii]] games. The GX2, designed by AMD, is based on the [[Radeon R600]]/[[Radeon R700|R700]] architecture and is clocked at approximately 550&nbsp;MHz. It is manufactured at a 40&nbsp;nm node and contains 32&nbsp;MB of eDRAM cache memory, which can also act as [[L3 cache]] for the CPU. The GX, originally designed by [[ArtX]], contains a 1&nbsp;MB and a 2&nbsp;MB banks of [[eSRAM]] cache memory. The Latte chip also includes a secondary custom [[ARM9]] processor with 96&nbsp;KB of SRAM memory that handles system tasks in the background during gameplay or while the system is in [[sleep mode]], and dedicated hardware audio [[Digital signal processor|DSP]] module.
  
 
<!-- Memory (RAM) and storage -->
 
<!-- Memory (RAM) and storage -->
The console contains 2&nbsp;[[Gigabyte|GB]] of [[DDR3 SDRAM|DDR3]] system memory consisting of four 512&nbsp;MB [[Dynamic random-access memory|DRAM]] chips with a maximum bandwidth of 12.8&nbsp;GB/s. This is 20 times the amount found in the [[Wii]].<ref>{{cite web|last1=Hernandez|first1=Pedro|title=Wii U to Have 2GB Internal Memory, GPGPU Support|url=http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/31665/wii-u-to-have-2gb-internal-memory-gpgpu-support|website=Nintendo World Report|publisher=Nintendo World Report|accessdate=July 19, 2014}}</ref> Of this, 1&nbsp;GB is reserved for the operating system and is unavailable to games. The memory architecture allows the CPU and GPU to access both the main DDR3 memory pool and the eDRAM cache memory pool on the GPU, removing the need for separate, dedicated memory pools.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.anandtech.com/show/6465/nintendo-wii-u-teardown |title=Nintendo Wii U Teardown |publisher=AnandTech |date= |accessdate=November 26, 2012}}</ref> The console includes either an 8&nbsp;GB (Basic) or 32&nbsp;GB (Deluxe <small>(NA)</small> / Premium <small>(WW)</small>) internal [[eMMC]] [[flash memory]], expandable via [[Secure Digital|SD]] memory cards up to 32&nbsp;GB and [[Universal Serial Bus|USB]] external [[hard disk drive]]s up to 2&nbsp;TB.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.com/consumer/systems/wiiu/en_na/external_usb_storage.jsp |title=&#124; Wii U Internal Storage Space Information |publisher=Nintendo.com |date= |accessdate=November 26, 2012}}</ref><ref name="wired_japan">{{cite news|url=https://www.wired.com/gamelife/2012/09/liveblog-wii-u-japan/|title=Wii U Coming to Japan December 8 In Two Configurations|last=Kohler|first=Chris|date=September 12, 2012|publisher=Wired.com|accessdate=September 15, 2012}}</ref>
+
The console contains 2&nbsp;[[Gigabyte|GB]] of [[DDR3 SDRAM|DDR3]] system memory consisting of four 512&nbsp;MB [[Dynamic random-access memory|DRAM]] chips with a maximum bandwidth of 12.8&nbsp;GB/s. This is 20 times the amount found in the [[Wii]]. Of this, 1&nbsp;GB is reserved for the operating system and is unavailable to games. The memory architecture allows the CPU and GPU to access both the main DDR3 memory pool and the eDRAM cache memory pool on the GPU, removing the need for separate, dedicated memory pools. The console includes either an 8&nbsp;GB (Basic) or 32&nbsp;GB (Deluxe <small>(NA)</small> / Premium <small>(WW)</small>) internal [[eMMC]] [[flash memory]], expandable via [[Secure Digital|SD]] memory cards up to 32&nbsp;GB and [[Universal Serial Bus|USB]] external [[hard disk drive]]s up to 2&nbsp;TB.
  
 
<!-- Connectivity / Input+Output -->
 
<!-- Connectivity / Input+Output -->
The Wii U features [[802.11 b/g]] [[802.11 n|/n]] [[wireless network]] connectivity and support for [[Fast Ethernet]] with an accessory, [[Bluetooth 4.0]], a total of four [[USB 2.0]] ports, and an SD/[[Secure Digital|SDHC]] memory card slot.<ref name=bluetooth>[http://www.broadcom.com/press/release.php?id=s722281 Delivers Advanced Wireless Connectivity to Nintendo's Wii U Gaming Experience]. Broadcom. Retrieved on August 23, 2013.</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.com/wiiu/features/tech-specs/ |title=Wii U Technical Specs |publisher=Nintendo.com |date= |accessdate=November 18, 2012}}</ref> An additional power port is also included to power the [[Wii Sensor Bar]], an auxiliary infrared emitter used by [[Wii Remote]] peripherals for motion tracking. Video output options include [[1080p]], [[1080i]], [[720p]], [[576i]], [[480p]] and [[480i]], through [[HDMI 1.4]] and [[component video]] ([[YPbPr|{{YPbPr}}]], [[D-Terminal]] and [[RGBS|RGB]] [[SCART]]) or 576i, 480i [[anamorphic widescreen]] through [[composite video]] <small>([[S-Video]], [[SCART]] and D-Terminal)</small>. Audio output options include six-channel [[5.1 surround sound|5.1]] [[Linear pulse-code modulation|linear PCM]] surround sound or [[Stereophonic sound|analog stereo]]. The console also supports [[stereoscopy|stereoscopic]] (3D) images and video.<ref name="WiiU3D" /><ref name="Official specs" />
+
The Wii U features [[802.11 b/g]] [[802.11 n|/n]] [[wireless network]] connectivity and support for [[Fast Ethernet]] with an accessory, [[Bluetooth 4.0]], a total of four [[USB 2.0]] ports, and an SD/[[Secure Digital|SDHC]] memory card slot. An additional power port is also included to power the [[Wii Sensor Bar]], an auxiliary infrared emitter used by [[Wii Remote]] peripherals for motion tracking. Video output options include [[1080p]], [[1080i]], [[720p]], [[576i]], [[480p]] and [[480i]], through [[HDMI 1.4]] and [[component video]] ([[YPbPr]], [[D-Terminal]] and [[RGBS|RGB]] [[SCART]]) or 576i, 480i [[anamorphic widescreen]] through [[composite video]] <small>([[S-Video]], [[SCART]] and D-Terminal)</small>. Audio output options include six-channel [[5.1 surround sound|5.1]] [[Linear pulse-code modulation|linear PCM]] surround sound or [[Stereophonic sound|analog stereo]]. The console also supports [[stereoscopy|stereoscopic]] (3D) images and video.
  
 
=== Controllers ===
 
=== Controllers ===
 
[[File:Wii U controller illustration.svg|thumb|An illustration of the Wii U GamePad (White)]]
 
[[File:Wii U controller illustration.svg|thumb|An illustration of the Wii U GamePad (White)]]
The [[Wii U GamePad]] is the console's primary [[video game controller|controller]]: its main feature is a built-in 6.2&nbsp;inch (15.7&nbsp;cm) [[resistive touchscreen]], which can be used as a [[Second screen|companion]] to games being played on a television, or as a means of playing games [[Off-TV Play|on the GamePad itself]] without a television. The GamePad is designed to enable a concept referred to by Nintendo as "[[Asymmetry|asymmetric]] gaming": in [[Multiplayer video game|multiplayer]] games, a player using the GamePad may have a different gameplay objective and experience than other players.<ref name=gamasutra-gamepad>{{cite web|title=Nintendo Unveils Wii U, Controller With Built-In 6.2" Touchscreen|url=http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/171695/Nintendo_reveals_Wii_Us_Miiverse_new_hardware_specifics.php|publisher=Gamasutra|accessdate=June 4, 2012}}</ref><ref name=metro-nl>{{cite web|title=Nintendo Land preview: Zelda: Battle Quest and Luigi's Ghost Mansion|url=http://www.metro.co.uk/tech/games/901203-nintendo-land-preview-zelda-battle-quest-and-luigis-ghost-mansion|publisher=Metro|accessdate=June 6, 2012}}</ref>
+
The [[Wii U GamePad]] is the console's primary [[video game controller|controller]]: its main feature is a built-in 6.2&nbsp;inch (15.7&nbsp;cm) [[resistive touchscreen]], which can be used as a [[Second screen|companion]] to games being played on a television, or as a means of playing games [[Off-TV Play|on the GamePad itself]] without a television. The GamePad is designed to enable a concept referred to by Nintendo as "[[Asymmetry|asymmetric]] gaming": in [[Multiplayer video game|multiplayer]] games, a player using the GamePad may have a different gameplay objective and experience than other players.
  
The GamePad's display contents are rendered on the Wii U itself, and streamed wirelessly as video to the GamePad.<ref name="crecente1">{{cite web|url=http://www.polygon.com/2012/11/16/3653294/wii-u-range-test-gamepad|title=Wireless Tech Behind WiiU Gamepad|work=Polygon|first=Brian|last=Crecente|date=November 16, 2012|accessdate=November 27, 2012}}</ref> The GamePad also supports [[near field communication]]s;<ref>{{cite web|last=Kee |first=Edwin |url=http://www.ubergizmo.com/2012/06/wii-u-details-released-gets-redesigned-controller-and-nfc-capability/ |title=Wii U details released, gets redesigned controller and NFC capability |publisher=Ubergizmo |date= |accessdate=June 12, 2012}}</ref> cards and specially-designed figurines, such as Nintendo's [[Amiibo]] line, can be used with the GamePad to interact with games. In Japan, it can also be used for [[contactless payment]]s from eShop with [[Suica]] cards.<ref name=polygon-suica>{{cite web|title=Wii U will let you purchase items using compatible transport money cards|url=http://www.polygon.com/2014/5/8/5694142/wii-u-nintendo-suica-transport-card|website=Polygon|accessdate=December 3, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=LeJacq|first1=Yannick|title=How Nintendo's Amiibo Toys Will Work In Smash Bros. And Beyond|url=http://kotaku.com/how-nintendos-amiibo-toys-will-work-in-smash-bros-and-1588803303|website=Kotaku|publisher=Kotaku|accessdate=July 19, 2014}}</ref><ref name="Briefing">{{cite web |url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/en/library/events/120127/04.html |title=Corporate Management Policy Briefing/Third Quarter Financial Results Briefing|date=January 27, 2012|publisher=[[Nintendo]]|accessdate=February 11, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=JC Fletcher |url=http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/iwata-interested-in-nfc-payments-tolerant-of-microtransactions/ |title=Iwata interested in NFC payments, tolerant of microtransactions |work=Joystiq |date=January 31, 2012 |accessdate=June 12, 2012}}</ref>
+
The GamePad's display contents are rendered on the Wii U itself, and streamed wirelessly as video to the GamePad. The GamePad also supports [[near field communication]]s; cards and specially-designed figurines, such as Nintendo's [[Amiibo]] line, can be used with the GamePad to interact with games. In Japan, it can also be used for [[contactless payment]]s from eShop with [[Suica]] cards.
  
 
[[File:Nintendo-Wii-U-Pro-Controller-Black.jpg|link=File:Nintendo-Wii-U-Pro-Controller-Black.jpg|thumb|The Wii U Pro Controller, a more conventional controller compared to the Gamepad.]]
 
[[File:Nintendo-Wii-U-Pro-Controller-Black.jpg|link=File:Nintendo-Wii-U-Pro-Controller-Black.jpg|thumb|The Wii U Pro Controller, a more conventional controller compared to the Gamepad.]]
A new [[Wii U Pro Controller]] was released alongside the Wii U. The Wii U Pro Controller is an updated version of the Wii's [[Classic Controller]] that is designed to appeal to "[[Gamer#Hardcore gamer|hardcore]]" players, with a more traditional [[gamepad]] design that resembles those used by the [[PlayStation]] and [[Xbox]] lines (and in particular, the [[Xbox 360]]'s [[Xbox 360 Controller|controller]]), and a claimed 80-hour battery life.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.ign.com/articles/2012/10/16/wii-u-pro-controller-boasts-80-hour-battery-life |title=Wii U Pro Controller Boasts 80-Hour Battery Life |work=IGN.com |date=October 16, 2012 |accessdate=September 21, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://popwatch.ew.com/2012/06/03/wii-u-pro-controller-xbox/|title=The Wii U Pro Controller looks very familiar...|last=Franich|first=Darren|date=June 3, 2012|publisher=EW.com|accessdate=July 28, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/erikkain/2012/06/05/nintendos-smart-decision-with-its-wii-u-pro-controller/|title=Nintendo's Smart Decision With Its Wii U Pro Controller|last=Kain|first=Erik|date=June 5, 2012|publisher=Forbes|accessdate=July 28, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://venturebeat.com/2012/06/03/nintendos-wii-u-pro-controller-may-make-microsoft-blush/|title=Nintendo’s Wii U Pro Controller may make Microsoft blush|last=Grubb|first=Jeffrey|date=June 3, 2012|publisher=VentureBeat|accessdate=July 28, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamezone.com/products/wii-u/news/nintendo-defends-wii-u-pro-controller-design|title=Nintendo defends Wii U Pro Controller design|last=Liebl|first=Matt|date=June 12, 2012|publisher=GameZone|accessdate=July 28, 2012}}</ref> The Wii U Pro Controller is compatible with [[List of Wii U games that use the Wii U Pro Controller|supported Wii U games]], but is not supported by Wii games.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tomshardware.com/news/Wii-U-Pro-controller-compatibility,18475.html|title=Wii U Pro Controller Not Compatible With Wii Games|work=Tom's Hardware Guide|accessdate=November 26, 2012}}</ref>
+
A new [[Wii U Pro Controller]] was released alongside the Wii U. The Wii U Pro Controller is an updated version of the Wii's [[Classic Controller]] that is designed to appeal to "[[Gamer#Hardcore gamer|hardcore]]" players, with a more traditional [[gamepad]] design that resembles those used by the [[PlayStation]] and [[Xbox]] lines (and in particular, the [[Xbox 360]]'s [[Xbox 360 Controller|controller]]), and a claimed 80-hour battery life.
  
The Wii U is compatible with existing [[Wii Remote]] and [[Wii Remote Plus]] controllers, along with their [[Wii Nunchuk|Nunchuk]] and [[Classic Controller]] attachments. A combination of up to four Wii Remotes or Pro Controllers can be used simultaneously, and the console can theoretically support up to two GamePads. Most software requires a Wii Sensor Bar in order to use Wii Remotes with the system, though some aspects, such as Off-TV Play and the Wii Mode, allow the Wii U GamePad to detect Wii Remotes.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2012/06/05/nintendo-two-wii-u-gamepads-will-work-on-one-system/|title=Nintendo: two Wii U Gamepads will work on one system|author=Jon Fingas|date=June 5, 2012|publisher=Engadget|accessdate=June 5, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://kotaku.com/5915318/nintendo-unveils-hardcore-wii-u-controller |title=Nintendo Unveils Hardcore Wii U Controller |work=Kotaku |date= |accessdate=June 12, 2012}}</ref> The Wii U does not natively support [[GameCube controller]]s. While a USB adapter accessory allows GameCube controllers to be used on the console in ''[[Super Smash Bros for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U|Super Smash Bros. for Wii U]]'', it is not compatible with any other software.<ref name=eurogamer-gcwiiu/><ref name="GameCube Controller and SSB at E3"/>
+
The Wii U is compatible with existing [[Wii Remote]] and [[Wii Remote Plus]] controllers, along with their [[Wii Nunchuk|Nunchuk]] and [[Classic Controller]] attachments. A combination of up to four Wii Remotes or Pro Controllers can be used simultaneously, and the console can theoretically support up to two GamePads. Most software requires a Wii Sensor Bar in order to use Wii Remotes with the system, though some aspects, such as Off-TV Play and the Wii Mode, allow the Wii U GamePad to detect Wii Remotes. The Wii U does not natively support [[GameCube controller]]s. While a USB adapter accessory allows GameCube controllers to be used on the console in ''[[Super Smash Bros for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U|Super Smash Bros. for Wii U]]'', it is not compatible with any other software.
  
 
== Software ==
 
== Software ==
{{Main article|Wii U system software}}
 
The Wii U's main menu has two main components: by default, the GamePad displays a home screen consisting of a grid with shortcuts to games and apps, while the television screen displays a lobby (WaraWara Plaza) populated by other users' [[Mii]]s. The two displays can be switched between the television screen and GamePad.<ref name=verge-onlinewarawara>{{cite web|title=Wii U's online gaming and 'Miiverse' outlined, including video chat and web client|url=https://www.theverge.com/2012/6/3/3061382/nintendo-wii-u-online-gaming-ios-app-community-messaging|website=The Verge|accessdate=December 24, 2014}}</ref><ref name=polygon-warawara>{{cite web|title=Nintendo reveals English version of 'Mii WaraWara': the WaraWara Plaza|url=http://www.polygon.com/2012/11/7/3612588/nintendo-reveals-english-version-of-mii-warawara-the-warawara-plaza|website=Polygon|accessdate=December 24, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://venturebeat.com/2012/06/05/social-networking-comes-to-wii-u-miiverse-will-interface-with-pcs-and-phones/ |title=Social networking comes to Wii U, Miiverse will interface with PCs and phones |publisher=VentureBeat |date=June 5, 2012 |accessdate=June 12, 2012}}</ref>
 
  
Pressing the controller's "Home" button suspends the current game or app and opens the Home Menu: it shows basic information (such as the current time, controller battery levels, and notifications), and allows access to several "multitasking" functions, including the [[Nintendo eShop]], Miiverse, download manager, a web browser,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/30407 |title=Wii U Internet Browser Functionality Detailed – News |publisher=[[Nintendo World Report]]|date= |accessdate=June 12, 2012}}{{cite web|url=http://www.gamasutra.com/blogs/MattHackett/20121209/183160/The_Wii_U_web_browsers_HTML5_gaming_capabilities.php |title=The Wii U web browser's HTML5 gaming capabilities |publisher=Gamasutra |date=December 9, 2012 |accessdate=December 29, 2012}}</ref> and the user's friends list. To play [[Wii]] games, the user must enter "Wii Mode", a [[legacy mode]] that emulates the Wii's system software and [[Wii Menu]] interface. Initially, Wii Mode could only be used on the television screen, but the October 2013 firmware update enables Wii Mode to be used off-TV. Either way, Wii controllers must be used.<ref name=time-wiiofftv>{{cite news|title=Nintendo’s Massive New Wii U Update Is *THIS* Shy of Greatness|url=http://techland.time.com/2013/10/01/nintendos-massive-new-wii-u-update-is-this-shy-of-greatness/|accessdate=December 26, 2014|work=Time|date=October 1, 2013}}</ref>
+
The Wii U's main menu has two main components: by default, the GamePad displays a home screen consisting of a grid with shortcuts to games and apps, while the television screen displays a lobby (WaraWara Plaza) populated by other users' [[Mii]]s. The two displays can be switched between the television screen and GamePad.
 +
 
 +
Pressing the controller's "Home" button suspends the current game or app and opens the Home Menu: it shows basic information (such as the current time, controller battery levels, and notifications), and allows access to several "multitasking" functions, including the [[Nintendo eShop]], Miiverse, download manager, a web browser, and the user's friends list. To play [[Wii]] games, the user must enter "Wii Mode", a [[legacy mode]] that emulates the Wii's system software and [[Wii Menu]] interface. Initially, Wii Mode could only be used on the television screen, but the October 2013 firmware update enables Wii Mode to be used off-TV. Either way, Wii controllers must be used.
  
 
=== Online services ===
 
=== Online services ===
The Wii U uses the [[Nintendo Network]] platform for online services (replacing the [[friend code]] system of the Wii), enabling online multiplayer, downloading and purchasing games or apps via Nintendo eShop, [[video chat]] using the GamePad's camera and the [[Nintendo Network#Wii U Chat|Wii U Chat]] service, and other services.<ref name=iw-videochat>{{cite web|title=Nintendo Wii U Adds Video Chat|url=http://www.informationweek.com/nintendo-wii-u-adds-video-chat/d/d-id/1107458?|website=InformationWeek|accessdate=December 25, 2014}}</ref> Up to twelve accounts can be created per console.<ref name=eg-nnetwork12>{{cite web|title=Wii U allows 12 user accounts per system, eShop downloads playable by all|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-11-07-wii-u-allows-10-user-accounts-per-system-eshop-downloads-played-by-all|website=Eurogamer|accessdate=December 25, 2014}}</ref>
+
The Wii U uses the [[Nintendo Network]] platform for online services (replacing the [[friend code]] system of the Wii), enabling online multiplayer, downloading and purchasing games or apps via Nintendo eShop, [[video chat]] using the GamePad's camera and the [[Nintendo Network#Wii U Chat|Wii U Chat]] service, and other services. Up to twelve accounts can be created per console.
  
A [[social networking service]] known as [[Nintendo Network#Miiverse|Miiverse]] is integrated into the Wii U's system software; it allows players to interact and share content in game-specific communities using their [[Mii]] as an avatar. Miiverse allows users to share accomplishments, screenshots, drawings and hand-written notes. Select games are integrated with Miiverse, where social interactions can also occur within the game, or appear within their content (such as in ''[[Splatoon]]'', where drawn posts can appear as [[graffiti]] on walls in its settings).<ref name=verge-onlinewarawara/><ref name=polygon-warawara/><ref name=avclub-splatoonmiiverse>{{cite web|title=Checking in on Splatoon’s lively community and sleazy amiibo support|url=http://www.avclub.com/article/checking-splatoons-lively-community-and-sleazy-ami-220375|website=The AV Club|accessdate=July 26, 2015}}</ref> Miiverse is moderated through software filtering as well as a [[human resources|human resource]] team in order to ensure that the content shared by users is appropriate and that no [[Spoiler (media)|spoilers]] are shared. In order to facilitate this, it was initially stated that comments posted could take up to 30 minutes to appear on Miiverse.<ref>{{cite web|author=JC Fletcher on |url=http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/07/miiverse-messages-will-be-subject-to-moderation-before-posting/ |title=Miiverse messages will be subject to moderation before posting |work=Joystiq |date=June 7, 2012 |accessdate=October 25, 2012}}</ref>
+
A [[social networking service]] known as [[Nintendo Network#Miiverse|Miiverse]] is integrated into the Wii U's system software; it allows players to interact and share content in game-specific communities using their [[Mii]] as an avatar. Miiverse allows users to share accomplishments, screenshots, drawings and hand-written notes. Select games are integrated with Miiverse, where social interactions can also occur within the game, or appear within their content (such as in ''[[Splatoon]]'', where drawn posts can appear as [[graffiti]] on walls in its settings). Miiverse is moderated through software filtering as well as a [[human resources|human resource]] team in order to ensure that the content shared by users is appropriate and that no [[Spoiler (media)|spoilers]] are shared. In order to facilitate this, it was initially stated that comments posted could take up to 30 minutes to appear on Miiverse.
  
 
=== Multimedia integration ===
 
=== Multimedia integration ===
The Wii U supports online video services through apps, such as [[Amazon Video]], [[Crunchyroll]], [[Hulu]], [[Netflix]], and [[YouTube]].<ref name=polygon-tviidiscontinued/><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2012/11/17/psa-day-one-patch-wii-u/ |title=PSA: Nintendo Wii U day-one patch now live, includes entire online infrastructure |work=Engadget |date=November 17, 2012 |accessdate=November 18, 2012}}</ref> The Wii U does not support playback of [[DVD]] or [[Blu-ray Disc]]; Iwata explained that the decision to exclude these formats was motivated primarily by patent licensing fees, and the fact that such functionality would be redundant to DVD and Blu-ray players that users may already own.<ref name=engadget-nodvd>{{cite web|title=Wii U will not play DVDs or Blu-ray, Iwata says|url=https://www.engadget.com/2011/06/15/wii-u-will-not-play-dvds-or-blu-ray-iwata-says/|website=Engadget|accessdate=December 25, 2014}}</ref>
+
The Wii U supports online video services through apps, such as [[Amazon Video]], [[Crunchyroll]], [[Hulu]], [[Netflix]], and [[YouTube]]. The Wii U does not support playback of [[DVD]] or [[Blu-ray Disc]]; Iwata explained that the decision to exclude these formats was motivated primarily by patent licensing fees, and the fact that such functionality would be redundant to DVD and Blu-ray players that users may already own.
 
 
The [[Nintendo Network#Nintendo TVii|Nintendo TVii]] service allowed program listings from a user's television provider to be aggregated with online video on demand services into an [[electronic program guide]] with recommendations and search functionality, and the ability to use the GamePad's infrared functionality to tune a [[set-top box]] to a particular program. The app also provided integration with [[IMDB]], [[Rotten Tomatoes]], and [[Wikipedia]] to provide additional information, and social connectivity through [[Facebook]], [[Twitter]], or Miiverse.<ref name=ign-tvii>{{cite web|title=Nintendo TVii for Wii U Hands-On|url=http://ca.ign.com/articles/2012/12/21/nintendo-tvii-for-wii-u-hands-on|website=IGN|accessdate=December 25, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2409681,00.asp|title=Nintendo TVii Streams Video, DVR, Live TV to Wii U|work=PC Magazine|accessdate=October 13, 2014}}</ref> TVii was made available with the Wii U's release in Japan on December 8, 2012,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2012/11/27/nintendo-tvii-launch-japan-december-8/ |title=Nintendo TVii will launch with Wii U in Japan on December 8th, IR remote costs $1|publisher=Engadget |date=November 27, 2012 |accessdate=December 19, 2012}}</ref> and in North America on December 20, 2012.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2012/12/19/3783800/nintendo-launching-tvii-for-wii-u-on-december-20th |title=Nintendo officially launching TVii for Wii U in the US and Canada on December 20th|work=Engadget |date=December 19, 2012 |accessdate=December 19, 2012}}</ref> Following delays, a European launch was cancelled,<ref name=gameinformer-notviieurope>{{cite web|title=Nintendo Officially Cancels TVii Support For Wii U In Europe|url=http://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2015/02/14/nintendo-officially-cancels-tvii-support-for-wii-u-in-europe.aspx|website=Game Informer|accessdate=February 15, 2015}}</ref><ref name=techradar-tviiuk>{{cite web|title=Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, but soon Wii U TVii will hit Europe|url=http://www.techradar.com/news/gaming/consoles/maybe-not-today-maybe-not-tomorrow-but-soon-wii-u-tvii-will-hit-europe-1215138|website=TechRadar|accessdate=December 25, 2014}}</ref> and the service was discontinued in North America on August 11, 2015.<ref name=polygon-tviidiscontinued>{{cite web|title=Nintendo shutting down Wii U TVii service in August|url=http://www.polygon.com/2015/7/24/9037965/nintendo-wii-u-tvii-closure|website=Polygon|publisher=Vox Media|accessdate=July 25, 2015}}</ref> The service was discontinued in Japan on November 8, 2017.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/support/information/2017/0829_nintendotv.html|title=Wii U『Nintendo TVii(ニンテンドーティービー)』サービス終了のお知らせ|サポート情報|Nintendo|website=www.nintendo.co.jp|access-date=December 23, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/wiiu/hardware/tvii/index.html |title=Nintendo TVii &#124; Wii U|Nintendo |publisher=Nintendo.co.jp |date= |language=Japanese |accessdate=June 16, 2016}}</ref>
 
 
 
== Games ==
 
{{anchor|Wii U Optical Disc}}
 
{{main article|List of Wii U software|List of best-selling Wii U video games}}
 
 
 
<!-- Availability -->
 
Wii U games can be downloaded digitally through [[Nintendo eShop]], or at retail on physical media. Retail copies of Wii U games are distributed on Wii U Optical Disc, a proprietary [[high-density storage media|high-density]] [[optical disc]] format co-developed with [[Panasonic]]. The format is similar in design and specifications to [[Blu-ray Disc]], with a capacity of 25&nbsp;[[Gigabyte|GB]] per layer, but the discs themselves have a soft, rounded rim.<ref>{{cite web|last=Totilo|first=Stephen|title=Wii U Discs Will Be 25GB In Size|url=http://kotaku.com/5809701/wii-u-discs-will-be-25gb-in-size|publisher=Kotaku}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|last=Kohler|first=Chris|title=Hands-On: With Wii U’s Touchscreen Controller, Nintendo Could Radically Change Games|journal=Wired|date=June 7, 2011|url=https://www.wired.com/gamelife/2011/06/nintendo-controller-hands-on/}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Gilbert |first=Ben |url=https://www.engadget.com/2012/11/12/nintendo-wii-u-proprietary-disc/ |title=Take a very, very close look at the round-edged Wii U proprietary discs|publisher=Engadget |date=November 12, 2012 |accessdate=November 18, 2012}}</ref> Unlike previous Nintendo consoles, game manuals are only available digitally. The console is [[regional lockout|region locked]]; software purchased in a region can be only played on that region's hardware.
 
 
 
<!-- Support (1st, 3rd and indie) 3D Classics -->
 
New games in Nintendo's flagship franchises (including [[Super Mario]], [[Donkey Kong]] and [[The Legend of Zelda]]), as well as several ''[[Wii (series)|Wii series]]'' games (including ''[[Wii Sports Club]]'', ''[[Wii Fit U]]'' and ''[[Wii Party U]]'') have been released, in addition to many original titles and third-party-developed games. Nintendo has received third-party support from companies such as [[Ubisoft]], [[Sega]], [[Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment]], [[Activision Blizzard]] and [[Capcom]], and various independent developers such as [[Two Tribes B.V.|Two Tribes]]. As of late July 2016, there have been 39 first-party and 118 third-party Wii U games physically released in the United States; both figures are the lowest for any Nintendo console.<ref>{{cite web|last=Plunkett|first=Luke|url=http://kotaku.com/the-wii-u-has-no-games-a-study-1784419013|title="The Wii U Has No Games", A Study|work=Kotaku|date=July 27, 2016|accessdate=July 29, 2016}}</ref>
 
 
 
<!-- Best-selling titles (2+ million sold) -->
 
A total of 102.53 million Wii U games have been sold worldwide {{as of|2018|9|30|df=US|lc=y|since=}},<ref name="Hardware Software Sales"/> with ten titles surpassing the million-unit mark. The highest selling game is ''[[Mario Kart 8]]'' at 8.42 million units, followed by ''[[Super Mario 3D World]]''  at 5.80 million units, and ''[[New Super Mario Bros. U]]'' at 5.77 million units.<ref name="Wii U best-selling games">{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/en/sales/software/wiiu.html|title=IR Information: Sales Data|publisher=Nintendo Co., Ltd.|accessdate=October 27, 2016}}</ref> ''[[Super Smash Bros. for Wii U]]'' is the fastest selling Wii U game {{as of |2014|11|25|df=US| lc=y|since=}}.<ref name="cvg-smashwiiusales"/>
 
 
 
=== Launch titles ===
 
The Wii U was launched with 23 games in North America,<ref>{{cite web|last=Makuch |first=Eddie |url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/wii-u-launching-with-23-games/1100-6397199/ |title=Wii U launching with 23 games |publisher=GameSpot |date=September 26, 2012 |accessdate=November 22, 2013}}</ref> 26 games in Europe, 25 games in Australia, and 11 games in Japan. Some download-only games were also available on launch day for the Wii U via [[Nintendo eShop]]. An additional 30 games were announced for release during the system's launch window, which included the three months after the system's launch date.
 
 
 
'''Key:'''
 
* <sup>NA</sup> [[North America]]
 
* <sup>EU</sup> [[Europe]]
 
* <sup>JP</sup> [[Japan]]
 
* <sup>AUS</sup> [[Australasia]]
 
 
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
|-
 
! colspan="5"| List of Wii U launch titles by region released
 
|-
 
! Launch title
 
! Region(s) released on launch day
 
|-
 
| ''[[Assassin's Creed III]]''
 
| <sup>NA, PAL</sup>
 
|-
 
| ''[[Batman: Arkham City|Batman: Arkham City – Armored Edition]]''
 
| <sup>NA, PAL</sup>
 
|-
 
| ''[[Call of Duty: Black Ops II]]''
 
| <sup>NA, PAL</sup>
 
|-
 
| ''[[Darksiders II]]''
 
| <sup>NA, PAL</sup>
 
|-
 
| ''[[Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two]]''<br /><small><sup>EU</sup>''Epic Mickey: The Power of 2''</small>
 
| <sup>NA, PAL</sup>
 
|-
 
| ''Sports Connection''<br /><small><sup>NA</sup>''ESPN Sports Connection''</small>
 
| <sup>NA, PAL</sup>
 
|-
 
| ''[[FIFA 13]]''<br /><small><sup>NA</sup>''FIFA Soccer 13''</small>
 
| <sup>NA, PAL</sup>
 
|-
 
| ''[[Funky Barn]]''
 
| <sup>NA, PAL</sup>
 
|-
 
| ''[[Game Party Champions]]''
 
| <sup>NA, PAL</sup>
 
|-
 
| ''[[Just Dance 4]]''
 
| <sup>NA, PAL</sup>
 
|-
 
| ''[[New Super Mario Bros. U]]''
 
| <sup>NA, PAL</sup>
 
|-
 
| ''[[Ninja Gaiden 3: Razor's Edge]]''
 
| <sup>NA</sup>
 
|-
 
| ''[[Nintendo Land]]''
 
| <sup>NA, PAL</sup>
 
|-
 
| ''[[Rabbids Land]]''
 
| <sup>NA</sup>
 
|-
 
| ''[[Scribblenauts Unlimited]]''
 
| <sup>NA, PAL</sup>
 
|-
 
| ''[[Sing Party]]''
 
| <sup>NA</sup>
 
|-
 
| ''[[Skylanders: Giants]]''
 
| <sup>NA, PAL</sup>
 
|-
 
| ''[[Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed]]''
 
| <sup>NA, PAL</sup>
 
|-
 
| ''[[Tekken Tag Tournament 2|Tekken Tag Tournament 2: Wii U Edition]]''
 
| <sup>NA, PAL</sup>
 
|-
 
| ''[[Transformers: Prime – The Game]]''
 
| <sup>NA</sup>
 
|-
 
| ''[[Warriors Orochi 3|Warriors Orochi 3 Hyper]]''
 
| <sup>NA</sup>
 
|-
 
| ''[[Wipeout (2008 U.S. game show)#Wipeout: The Game|Wipeout 3]]''
 
| <sup>NA</sup>
 
|-
 
| ''[[Your Shape: Fitness Evolved|Your Shape: Fitness Evolved 2013]]''
 
| <sup>NA</sup>
 
|-
 
| ''[[ZombiU]]''
 
| <sup>NA, PAL</sup>
 
|}
 
 
 
=== Virtual Console ===
 
{{main article|Virtual Console}}
 
In January 2013, Nintendo announced that [[Nintendo Entertainment System|NES]] and [[Super Nintendo Entertainment System|Super NES]] titles would be made available for the [[Virtual Console]] service on the Wii U in April 2013 and would include the option to use [[Off-TV Play]] on the GamePad.<ref>{{cite news|last=Goldfarb|first=Andrew|date=January 23, 2013|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/01/23/wii-u-virtual-console-os-upgrades-announced|title=Wii U Virtual Console, OS Upgrades Announced|publisher=IGN|accessdate=January 23, 2013}}</ref> On March 26, 2014, [[Game Boy Advance]] titles were confirmed and started to appear on the eShop the following month.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nintendo.com/whatsnew/detail/nYsZbKYHFhIgQQZVo1qjim_YP3PB233Z|title=Game Boy Advance Classics on Virtual Console | date=March 26, 2014 | publisher=Nintendo of America | accessdate=October 27, 2015}}</ref> [[Nintendo 64]] and [[Nintendo DS]] games were added in April 2015.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2015/04/01/nintendo-64-and-ds-games-coming-to-wii-u-virtual-console|title=Nintendo-64-and-DS-Games-Coming-to-Wii-U-Virtual-Console|publisher=IGN|date=April 1, 2015|accessdate=July 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.polygon.com/2015/4/1/8328063/nintendo-ds-64-wii-u-virtual-console|title=Nintendo DS and Nintendo 64 titles launching on Wii U Virtual Console|publisher=Polygon|date=April 1, 2015|accessdate=July 23, 2015}}</ref>
 
 
 
=== Backward compatibility ===
 
{{see also|List of Wii games}}
 
The Wii U is compatible with all [[Wii]] games and Wii accessories such as the [[Wii Remote]] ([[Wii Remote Plus|Plus]]), [[Wii Nunchuk]], and the [[Wii Balance Board]]. It is possible to migrate most downloaded software and save files from a Wii to a Wii U.<ref name="wired_japan" /> Although Wii games can be displayed on the GamePad's screen, they can only be controlled using a Wii controller, and not the GamePad's controller.<ref name=time-wiiofftv/><ref>{{cite news|last=Peckham |first=Matt |url=http://techland.time.com/2012/09/17/nintendo-wii-u-is-core-enough-and-its-the-most-innovative-game-system-ever-made |title=Nintendo: Wii U Is Core Enough and It’s the Most Innovative Game System Ever Made |work=Time |date=September 17, 2012 |accessdate=February 6, 2013}}</ref>
 
 
 
The Wii U is not compatible with [[GameCube]] discs or accessories, although a [[Homebrew (video games)|homebrew]] application for Wii Mode exists that enables GameCube support.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Bogos|first1=Steven|title=Wii U Mod Allows Gamecube Games to Be Played|url=http://www.escapistmagazine.com/news/view/132884-Wii-U-Mod-Allows-Gamecube-Games-to-Be-Played|website=The Escapist|accessdate=March 12, 2017}}</ref> A USB [[GameCube controller]] adapter with four ports was released exclusively for use with ''[[Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U|Super Smash Bros. for Wii U]]'', and does not support any other titles.<ref name=eurogamer-gcwiiu>{{cite web|title=Wii U GameCube controller adapter compatible with more than just Smash Bros.|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2014-10-08-wii-u-gamecube-controller-adaptor-compatible-with-more-than-just-smash-bros|website=Eurogamer|accessdate=December 24, 2014}}</ref><ref name="GameCube Controller and SSB at E3">{{cite web|last=Newhouse |first=Alex |url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/e3-2014-wii-u-s-gamecube-controller-adapter-launches-alongside-super-smash-bros-costs-20/1100-6420330/ |title=E3 2014: Wii U's GameCube Controller Adapter Launches Alongside Super Smash Bros., Costs $20 |work=GameSpot |date=June 10, 2014 |accessdate=June 11, 2014}}</ref>
 
 
 
== Developers ==
 
{{Expand section|date=December 2016}}
 
 
 
The Nintendo Web Framework, unveiled in 2013, is a toolset that uses modern web technology ([[WebKit]], [[HTML5]], and [[JavaScript]]) to simplify the process of [[Porting of video games|porting]] games to the Wii U's GamePad and TV. It was designed to make web-based games easier to port to the system than it would to code specifically for the Wii U.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.polygon.com/2013/3/27/4155152/nintendo-app-web-devs-wii-u-javascript|title=Nintendo hopes to win app and web devs to Wii U with JavaScript tools|first=Philip|last=Kollar|date=March 27, 2013|publisher=|accessdate=December 30, 2016}}</ref>
 
 
 
== Reception ==
 
John Teti of ''[[The A.V. Club]]'''s Gameological Society considers the Wii U a compelling video game system which lacks focus, citing ''Nintendo Land'' as "ideas act[ing] in service of the technology".<ref name="avclub">{{cite web |url=http://gameological.com/2012/11/review-wii-u/ |last=Teti |first=John |publisher=[[The A.V. Club]] |date=November 18, 2012 |accessdate=November 19, 2012 |title=Wii U: Every Which Way}}</ref> Ben Gilbert of [[Engadget]] states that Nintendo delivers on its promise of releasing "a modern HD gaming console" but notes that "there are also some major missteps and half-baked ideas: a befuddling Friends List/Miiverse connection, a complete lack of many system-wide console standards (group chat, achievements, the ability to play non-game disc-based media) and a game controller that lasts only 3.5 hours", and stated that he could not give a complete assessment of the console with online components such as Nintendo TVii missing at launch.<ref name="engadget">{{cite web |url=https://www.engadget.com/wii-u-review/nintendo-wii-u-review/ |last=Gilbert |first=Ben |publisher=[[Engadget]] |date=November 18, 2012 |accessdate=November 19, 2012 |title=Nintendo Wii U review}}</ref> Similarly, ''[[TechRadar]]'' praised the system's GamePad functionality and HD graphics, but criticized the limited battery power on the GamePad, and the insufficient number of top-tier launch titles.<ref>{{cite web|author=Andrew Hayward |url=http://www.techradar.com/reviews/gaming/games-consoles/nintendo-wii-u-1084120/review |title=Nintendo Wii U review &#124; Games consoles Reviews |publisher=TechRadar |date= |accessdate=April 22, 2013}}</ref> Some industry figures do not consider the Wii U to be an [[History of video game consoles (eighth generation)|eighth-generation]] console,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.escapistmagazine.com/news/view/123927-Insomniac-Not-Working-on-the-Wii-U |title=Insomniac "Not Working" on the Wii U| last=Shearer|first=Stew|publisher=[[escapistmagazine.com]]|date=May 11, 2013|accessdate=May 12, 2013}}</ref> with many citing the hardware's processing speed.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/df-hardware-wii-u-graphics-power-finally-revealed|title=Wii U graphics power finally revealed|last=Leadbetter|first=Richard|publisher=EuroGamer.net|date=February 5, 2013|accessdate=February 28, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2013-06-26-dreamfall-chapters-we-are-preparing-to-go-to-consoles|title=Dreamfall Chapters: "We are preparing to go to consoles"|last=Purchese|first=Robert|publisher=[[eurogamer.net]]|date=June 26, 2013|accessdate=July 11, 2013}}</ref> However, Fils-Aimé has noted that similar comments were made in 2006 when the [[Wii]] first launched.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://kotaku.com/nintendo-saying-next-gen-is-only-sony-vs-microsoft-is-514050644 |title=Nintendo: Saying Next-Gen is Only Sony vs. Microsoft Is So 2006| last=Totilo|first=Stephen|publisher=[[kotaku.com]]|date=June 18, 2013|accessdate=June 18, 2013}}</ref>
 
 
 
<!-- PS4 and Xbox One launches -->
 
Following the launch of other [[History of video game consoles (eighth generation)|eighth-generation]] consoles, the [[PlayStation 4]] and [[Xbox One]], in November 2013, some critics suggested that the Wii U would continue to struggle as it lacked the third-party support of its rivals.<ref>{{cite news|last=Kohler|first=Chris|title=What the Hell Is Wrong With Nintendo?|url=https://www.wired.com/gamelife/2013/12/wii-u-sales/|publisher=Wired|accessdate=December 30, 2013|date=December 5, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Nowak|first=Peter|title=Year in review: The biggest tech flops of 2013|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/technology/year-in-review-the-biggest-tech-flops-of-2013-1.2467354|series=Technology & Science|work=CBC News|accessdate=December 30, 2013|date=December 30, 2013}}</ref> In December 2013 article, Chris Suellentrop of ''[[The New York Times]]'' argued that the Wii U was the only new console with a video game worth playing—''[[Super Mario 3D World]]''—which he described as being "the best ''Mario'' game in years". Despite the praise, he noted that "one great game won't save a console", and although other good games exist on the Wii U, he admitted that its lineup "[was] still pretty thin".<ref>{{cite news|last=Suellentrop|first=Chris|title=Mario Tries to Rescue His Console|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/25/arts/video-games/super-mario-3d-world-could-make-the-wii-u-popular.html?_r=3&adxnnl=1&ref=arts&adxnnlx=1386890554-ggZNG/r8oOu1Q+l0dZMD5w|publisher=New York Times|accessdate=December 12, 2013|date=November 24, 2013}}</ref> [[Time (magazine)|Time]] writer Matt Peckham said that the Wii U was the system of choice to pick up during that Christmas season, praising the console's game lineup, affordable price, Off-TV Play, the absence of subscription fees for its online services, [[backward compatibility]] and media features. However, he noted that the system still needs a price cut and an improved first and third-party software lineup.<ref>{{cite news|last=Peckham|first=Matt|title=10 Reasons I’d Pick the Wii U over the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One Today|url=http://techland.time.com/2013/12/04/10-reasons-id-pick-the-wii-u-over-the-playstation-4-and-xbox-one-today/|work=Time Tech|publisher=Time|accessdate=December 14, 2013|date=December 4, 2013}}</ref> [[CNET]] also noted that the Wii U had a better lineup of games and lower price in comparison to its competitors, mainly due to its one-year head start.<ref>{{cite web|title=Xbox or PS4? Maybe that's the wrong question|url=http://news.cnet.com/1606-2_3-50159685.html|publisher=CNET|accessdate=December 14, 2013}}</ref>
 
 
 
== Sales ==
 
<!-- Do not change these numbers without a reference -->
 
<!-- VGCHARTZ.COM and NEXGENWARS.COM are ''not'' reliable sources -->
 
{| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="float:right; text-align:right; margin:10px"
 
|+ Life-to-date number of hardware and software [[List of best-selling game consoles|units shipped]], in millions
 
|-
 
! rowspan="2"| Date
 
! colspan="2"| Japan
 
! colspan="2"| Americas
 
! colspan="2"| Other
 
! colspan="2"| Total
 
|-
 
! scope="row"| Hardware
 
! scope="row"| Software
 
! scope="row"| Hardware
 
! scope="row"| Software
 
! scope="row"| Hardware
 
! scope="row"| Software
 
! scope="row"| Hardware
 
! scope="row"| Software
 
|-
 
! 2012-12-31<ref name="nintendosales Q4 2012">{{cite web |title=Consolidated Sales Transition by Region |url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1212.pdf |publisher=Nintendo |format=PDF |date=January 24, 2012 |quote= |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130228025231/http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1212.pdf |archivedate=February 28, 2013 |deadurl=yes |accessdate=June 16, 2013  }}</ref>
 
| 0.83 || 1.48 || 1.32 || 6.40 || 0.90 || 3.82
 
! 3.06
 
! 11.69
 
|-
 
! 2013-03-31<ref name="nintendosales Q1 2013">{{cite web |title=Consolidated Sales Transition by Region |url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1303.pdf |publisher=Nintendo |format=PDF |date=April 24, 2012 |quote= |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130526130209/http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1303.pdf |archivedate=May 26, 2013 |deadurl=yes |accessdate=June 16, 2013}}</ref>
 
| 0.92 || 1.73 || 1.52 || 7.28 || 1.01 || 4.40
 
! 3.45
 
! 13.42
 
|-
 
! 2013-06-30<ref name="nintendosales Q2 2013">{{cite web |url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1306.pdf |title=Consolidated Sales Transition by Region |date=July 30, 2013 |publisher=Nintendo |format=PDF |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130810035526/http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1306.pdf |archivedate=August 10, 2013 |deadurl=yes |accessdate=July 31, 2013  }}</ref>
 
| 1.01 || 1.91 || 1.58 || 7.80 || 1.02 || 4.73
 
! 3.61
 
! 14.44
 
|-
 
! 2013-09-30<ref name="nintendosales Q3 2013">{{cite web |url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1309.pdf|title=Consolidated Sales Transition by Region |accessdate=October 30, 2013 |date=October 29, 2013 |publisher=Nintendo |format=PDF |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20131101034057/http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1309.pdf |archivedate=November 1, 2013 |deadurl=yes}}</ref>
 
| 1.15 || 2.57 || 1.75 || 10.97 || 1.01 || 6.17
 
! 3.91
 
! 19.71
 
|-
 
! 2013-12-31<ref name="nintendosales Q4 2013">{{cite web |url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1312.pdf |title=Consolidated Sales Transition by Region |accessdate=January 29, 2014 |date=January 28, 2014 |publisher=Nintendo |format=PDF |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140201192958/http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1312.pdf |archivedate=February 1, 2014 |deadurl=yes  }}</ref>
 
| 1.75 || 5.21 || 2.61 || 15.23 || 1.49 || 8.94
 
! 5.86
 
! 29.37
 
|-
 
! 2014-03-31<ref name="nintendosales Q1 2014">{{cite web |url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1403.pdf|title=Consolidated Sales Transition by Region |accessdate=May 7, 2014 |date=May 7, 2014 |publisher=Nintendo |format=PDF |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140508062158/http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1403.pdf |archivedate=May 8, 2014 |deadurl=yes}}</ref>
 
| 1.81 || 5.62 || 2.81 || 16.98 || 1.56 || 9.67
 
! 6.17
 
! 32.28
 
|-
 
! 2014-06-30<ref name="nintendosales Q2 2014">{{cite web |url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1406.pdf|title=Consolidated Sales Transition by Region |accessdate=July 30, 2014 |date=July 30, 2014 |publisher=Nintendo |format=PDF |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808052538/http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1406.pdf |archivedate=August 8, 2014 |deadurl=yes}}</ref>
 
| 1.87 || 6.43 || 3.08 || 19.28 || 1.73 || 10.95
 
! 6.68
 
! 36.67
 
|-
 
! 2014-09-30<ref name="nintendosales Q3 2014">{{cite web |url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1409.pdf|title=Consolidated Sales Transition by Region |accessdate=October 29, 2014 |date=October 29, 2014 |publisher=Nintendo |format=PDF |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20141029102815/http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1409.pdf |archivedate=October 29, 2014 |deadurl=yes}}</ref>
 
| 1.97 || 6.96 || 3.43 || 22.58 || 1.88 || 12.13
 
! 7.29
 
! 41.67
 
|-
 
! 2014-12-31<ref name="nintendosales Q4 2014">{{cite web
 
|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1412.pdf|title=Consolidated Sales Transition by Region |accessdate=January 28, 2015 |date=January 28, 2015 |publisher=Nintendo |format=PDF |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150128175000/http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1412.pdf |archivedate=January 28, 2015 |deadurl=yes}}</ref>
 
| 2.30 || 8.48 || 4.45 || 29.25 || 2.46 || 15.15
 
! 9.20
 
! 52.87
 
|-
 
! 2015-03-31<ref name="nintendosales Q1 2015">{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2015/150507e.pdf|title=Consolidated Financial Statements – Consolidated Results for the Years Ended March 31, 2014 and 2015 |accessdate=May 7, 2015 |date=May 7, 2015 |publisher=Nintendo |format=PDF |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150507082110/http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2015/150507e.pdf |archivedate=May 7, 2015 |deadurl=no}}</ref>
 
| 2.33 || 8.95 || 4.65 || 31.59 || 2.56 || 16.13
 
! 9.54
 
! 56.68
 
|-
 
! 2015-06-30<ref name="nintendosales Q2 2015">{{cite web |url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1506.pdf |title=Consolidated Sales Transition by Region |accessdate=July 29, 2015 |date=July 29, 2015 |publisher=Nintendo |format=PDF |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150807051131/http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1506.pdf |archivedate=August 7, 2015 |deadurl=yes  }}</ref>
 
| 2.48 || 9.97 || 4.85 || 33.65 || 2.68 || 17.61
 
! 10.01
 
! 61.23
 
|-
 
! 2015-09-30<ref name="nintendosales Q3 2015">{{cite web
 
|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1509.pdf|title=Consolidated Sales Transition by Region |accessdate=October 28, 2015 |date=October 28, 2015 |publisher=Nintendo |format=PDF |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20151121041604/http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1509.pdf |archivedate=November 21, 2015 |deadurl=yes}}</ref>
 
| 2.66 || 11.00 || 5.21 || 38.28 || 2.87 || 19.77
 
! 10.73
 
! 69.05
 
|-
 
! 2015-12-31<ref name="nintendosales Q4 2015">{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1512.pdf|title=Consolidated Sales Transition by Region  |date=February 2, 2016 |publisher=Nintendo |format=PDF |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160207005602/https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1512.pdf |archivedate=February 7, 2016 |deadurl=yes |accessdate=February 6, 2016 }}</ref>
 
| 3.08 || 12.68 || 6.10 || 43.76 || 3.42 || 22.86
 
! 12.60
 
! 79.30
 
|-
 
! 2016-03-31<ref name="nintendosales Q1 2016">{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1603.pdf |title=Consolidated Sales Transition by Region |date=April 27, 2016 |publisher=Nintendo |format=PDF |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160427084600/https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1603.pdf |archivedate=April 27, 2016 |deadurl=yes |accessdate=April 27, 2016}}</ref>
 
| 3.13 || 13.48 || 6.20 || 46.38 || 3.47 || 24.18
 
! 12.80
 
! 84.04
 
|-
 
! 2016-06-30<ref name="nintendosales Q2 2016">{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1606.pdf |title=Consolidated Sales Transition by Region |date=July 26, 2016 |publisher=Nintendo |format=PDF |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160727092003/https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1606.pdf |archivedate=July 27, 2016 |deadurl=yes |accessdate=July 27, 2016}}</ref>
 
| 3.21 || 14.08 || 6.29 || 48.84 || 3.53 || 25.79
 
! 13.02
 
! 88.72
 
|-
 
! 2016-09-30<ref name="nintendosales Q3 2016">{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1609.pdf |title=Consolidated Sales Transition by Region |date=October 26, 2016 |publisher=Nintendo |format=PDF |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160727092003/https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1609.pdf |archivedate=July 27, 2016 |deadurl=yes |accessdate=October 27, 2016}}</ref>
 
| 3.30 || 14.55 || 6.41 || 50.62 || 3.65 || 27.18
 
! 13.36
 
! 92.35
 
|-
 
! 2016-12-31<ref name="nintendosales Q4 2016">{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1612.pdf |title=Consolidated Sales Transition by Region |date=January 31, 2017 |publisher=Nintendo |format=PDF |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160727092003/https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/library/historical_data/pdf/consolidated_sales_e1609.pdf |archivedate=July 27, 2016 |deadurl=yes |accessdate=January 31, 2017}}</ref>
 
| 3.34 || 15.10 || 6.49 || 52.84 || 3.73 || 28.59
 
! 13.56
 
! 96.52
 
|}
 
<!-- Total -->
 
By December 2016, Nintendo reported life-time sales of 13.56&nbsp;million Wii U console units and 96.52 million software units worldwide.<ref name="Hardware Software Sales"/>
 
 
 
===Launch===
 
During its first week of release in the United States, Nintendo sold its entire allotment of over 400,000 units<ref name="NintenHardware_cnet">{{cite web|last=Reisigner|first=Don|title=Nintendo:1.2 million hardware units sold, 400,000 Wii U|url=http://news.cnet.com/8301-10797_3-57554183-235/nintendo-1.2-million-hardware-units-sold-400000-wii-u/|publisher=cnet.com|accessdate=November 26, 2012}}</ref> and sold a total of 425,000 units for the month of November, according to the [[NPD Group]].<ref name=NPD>{{cite news|title='Call of Duty,' Wii U can't stop video game slide|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/gaming/2012/12/06/npd-video-game-sales-november/1752081/|publisher=[[Gannett Company]]|work=[[USA Today]]|accessdate=December 7, 2012|first1=Mike|last1=Snider|first2=Brett|last2=Molina|date=December 6, 2012}}</ref> It also sold over 40,000 consoles in the UK in its first weekend.<ref name=UK>{{cite web|last=Cook|first=Dave|url=http://www.vg247.com/2012/12/03/wii-u-40000-consoles-sold-over-uk-launch-weekend-report/comment-page-1/|publisher=VG247|accessdate=December 3, 2012|title=Wii U: 40,000 Consoles Sold Over UK Launch Weekend&nbsp;– Report}}</ref> In Japan, over 600,000 Wii U units were sold during December 2012.<ref name=Japan>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/2013/01/07/us-nintendo-console-sales-idUSBRE90605420130107|publisher=Reuters|accessdate=January 7, 2013|title=Year-end Wii U sales steady, says Nintendo chief|date=January 7, 2013}}</ref> Nearly 890,000 Wii U units were sold in the United States after 41 days on the market.<ref name="NintenHardware_register">{{cite web|last=Reisigner|first=Don|title=Wii U sales surpass Wii's through first six weeks|url=http://www.news10.net/entertainment/gameguys/article/224725/99/Wii-U-sales-surpass-Wiis-through-first-six-weeks/|publisher=news10.net|accessdate=January 10, 2013|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20131004232118/http://www.news10.net/entertainment/gameguys/article/224725/99/Wii-U-sales-surpass-Wiis-through-first-six-weeks/|archivedate=October 4, 2013}}</ref> From the Wii U's launch till December 31, 2012, Nintendo reported that 3.06 million consoles and 11.69 million software units had been shipped worldwide.<ref name="nintendosales Q3 2013" />
 
 
 
<!-- Q1/Q2 2013 -->
 
In January 2013, Nintendo sold 57,000 Wii U units in the US.<ref>{{cite web|last=Sinclair|first=Brendan|url=http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2013-02-15-wii-u-sells-57-000-systems-in-january|title=Wii U sells 57,000 systems in January|date=February 15, 2013|accessdate=February 17, 2013}}</ref> By comparison, the original [[Wii]] sold 435,000 in January 2007, also two months after launch.<ref name=January2013NPDSalesCNET>{{cite web|title=Uh-oh: Nintendo sold 57,000 Wii U units in the U.S. in January |author=Don Reisinger |url=http://news.cnet.com/8301-10797_3-57569583-235/uh-oh-nintendo-sold-57000-wii-u-units-in-the-u.s-in-january/ |publisher=CNET |date=February 15, 2013 |accessdate=April 18, 2013}}</ref> Initial sales numbers in the U.S. and other territories were lower than expected, resulting in Nintendo cutting sales projections for [[fiscal year]] 2013 by 17%, from 5.5 million to 4 million;<ref>{{cite news|author=Jason Evangelho |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/jasonevangelho/2013/01/30/nintendo-cuts-sales-projections-by-17-based-on-sluggish-wii-u-sales/ |title=Nintendo Cuts FY 2013 Sales Projections By 17% Based On Sluggish Wii U Sales |publisher=Forbes |date=January 30, 2013 |accessdate=February 6, 2013}}</ref> the system actually ended up selling 3.5 million units.<ref name="2012sales">{{cite web |url=http://www.csmonitor.com/Innovation/2013/0130/Nintendo-admits-the-Wii-U-is-struggling-to-gain-traction |title=Nintendo Admits the Wii U Is Struggling to Gain Traction |last=Shaer |first=Matthew |publisher=[[Christian Science Publishing Society]] |work=[[The Christian Science Monitor]] |date=January 30, 2013}}</ref> During the first quarter of 2013, Nintendo reported that 390,000 consoles and 1.73 million software units were shipped worldwide.<ref name="nintendosales Q1 2013" /> From March to June 2013, the system sold approximately 160,000 units, which was down 51% from the three months prior.<ref name="bbcsales">{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23515086 |title=Nintendo's Wii U sales disappoint |publisher=BBC |date=July 31, 2013}}</ref> During the second quarter of 2013, Nintendo reported that 160,000 consoles and 1.03 million software units were shipped worldwide.<ref name="nintendosales Q2 2013" />
 
 
 
=== Loss of support ===
 
In May 2013, [[Electronic Arts]] announced that it was reducing support for the Wii U and had no games in development for it,<ref name="ea">{{cite web |url=http://www.csmonitor.com/Innovation/2013/0517/EA-turns-its-back-on-the-Nintendo-Wii-U-report |title=EA Turns Its Back on the Nintendo Wii U: Report |last=Shaer |first=Matthew |publisher=[[Christian Science Publishing Society]] |work=[[The Christian Science Monitor]] |date=May 17, 2013}}</ref> but then partially reconsidered this decision a few days later, with EA's CFO announcing that "We are building titles for the Nintendo console, but not anywhere near as many as we are for PlayStation or Xbox".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.polygon.com/2013/5/21/4351844/ea-developing-wii-u-games|title=EA is developing Wii U games, has bigger plans for PS4 and Xbox One, CFO says|last=Tach |first=Dave |publisher=[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]] |work=|date=May 21, 2013}}</ref> At [[Electronic Entertainment Expo 2013|E3 2013]], Ubisoft revealed that it was not going to make any more exclusives for the Wii U until sales of the console improved,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://kotaku.com/ubisoft-to-nintendo-sell-more-systems-and-well-make-m-512860061 | title=Ubisoft to Nintendo: Sell More Systems and We'll Make More Exclusives|last=Totilo|first=Stephen|date=June 6, 2013 |accessdate=July 11, 2013}}</ref> though it stated shortly thereafter that it was still a "big supporter" of the Wii U, and planned to release as many Wii U games in 2013 as it did in 2012.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.ign.com/articles/2013/06/24/ubisoft-big-supporters-of-wii-u-mobile-companion-apps|title=Ubisoft ‘Big Supporters’ of Wii U, Mobile Companion Apps| last=Goldfarb|first=Andrew|publisher=[[ign.com]]|date=June 24, 2013|accessdate=July 11, 2013}}</ref> In July 2013, [[Bethesda Softworks]] announced that it had no games in development for the Wii U, with Bethesda VP of PR and marketing Pete Hines explaining: "It depends on the games that we are making and how we think it aligns with that console, and how the hardware aligns with the other stuff we are making".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/419305/bethesda-has-no-games-in-development-for-wii-u/ | title=Bethesda has 'no games in development for Wii U'|last=Crossley|first=Rob|date=July 17, 2013 |accessdate=July 17, 2013}}</ref> This explanation was later refined to being largely due to the hardware.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2013/08/06/wii-u-not-on-bethesdas-short-term-radar/|title=Wii U not on Bethesda's short-term radar|last=Mallory|first=Jordan|publisher=[[joystiq.com]]|date=August 6, 2013|accessdate=August 8, 2013}}</ref> Contrarily, [[Activision]] has stated that it will "do everything they can" to support the system.<ref>{{cite news|last=Phillips|first=Tom|title=Activision: we're doing "everything we can" to support Wii U|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2013-07-26-activision-were-doing-everything-we-can-to-support-wii-u|accessdate=August 3, 2013|newspaper=Eurogamer|date=July 26, 2013}}</ref>
 
 
 
<!-- Q3 2013 - Retailers -->
 
At the end of July 2013, [[Asda]], the second-largest supermarket chain in the UK, confirmed that it had no plans to stock the Wii U, but would still stock games "on a title by title merit basis".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/421340/asda-suspends-wii-u-stock/|title=Asda suspends Wii U stock| last=Crossley|first=Rob|publisher=[[Computer and Video Games|ComputerAndVideoGames.com]]|date=July 29, 2013|accessdate=July 30, 2013}}</ref> Despite this, many specialist retailers continued to emphasize their support, with [[Game (retailer)|Game]] CEO Martyn Gibbs saying "We fully support all Nintendo products, including Wii U."<ref>{{cite news|last=Whitehead|first=Thomas|title=Specialist Retailers Emphasize Their Support for the Wii U|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2013/08/specialist_retailers_emphasize_their_support_for_the_wii_u|accessdate=August 3, 2013|newspaper=Nintendo Life|date=August 2, 2013}}</ref>
 
 
 
=== Price cut and first-party titles===
 
Following the system's $50 price cut and the release of ''[[The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD]]'' on September 20, 2013, Wii U sales in North America saw a 200% rise over August.<ref>{{cite web|last=Buckley |first=Sean |url=https://www.engadget.com/2013/10/17/wii-u-sales-jump/ |title=Wii U sales jump in wake of price cut, increased by 200% in September |publisher=Engadget |date=November 18, 2012 |accessdate=November 22, 2013}}</ref> From July to September 2013, the system sold approximately 300,000 units, which was up 87% from the three months prior. Despite only having sold 460,000 consoles since April, Nintendo maintained its 9 million Wii U sales forecast for the fiscal year through March 2014. Wii U software showed improvement in the Q2 period, reaching 5.27 million units, a 400% jump on the previous quarter. Nintendo credited the software growth to key first-party releases like ''[[Pikmin 3]]'' and ''The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD''.<ref>{{cite web|author=Andy Robinson |url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/435868/nintendo-reports-300k-wii-u-console-sales-in-q2/ |title=News: Nintendo reports 300k Wii U console sales in Q2 |work=ComputerAndVideoGames |date=October 30, 2013 |accessdate=November 22, 2013}}</ref> During the third quarter of 2013, Nintendo reported that 300,000 consoles and 5.27 million software units were shipped worldwide.<ref name="nintendosales Q3 2013" />
 
 
 
<!-- Q4 2013 -->
 
In October 2013, online retailer ''Play.com'' announced that its Wii U sales saw a 75% sales increase. The company also predicted that the Wii U would be more popular than its competition, the [[PlayStation 4]] and [[Xbox One]], among children during the holiday season.<ref>{{cite web|last=Parfitt|first=Ben|title=Play.com predicts Wii U dominance this Christmas|url=http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/play-com-predicts-wii-u-dominance-this-christmas/0125450|publisher=MCV UK|accessdate=December 12, 2013}}</ref> Following the release of ''[[Wii Party U]]'' on October 31 in Japan, weekly Wii U sales spiked to 38,802 units sold.<ref>{{cite web|last=Haywald|first=Justin|title=Wii U sales in Japan surpass PS3, Vita, and Xbox 360 this week|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/wii-u-sales-in-japan-surpass-ps3-vita-and-xbox-360-this-week/1100-6416036/|publisher=GameSpot|accessdate=December 19, 2013}}</ref> On November 29, 2013, Nintendo of France deputy general manager Philippe Lavoué announced that the Wii U had sold approximately 175,000 units in France since launch.<ref>{{cite web|last=Hellio|first=Patrick|title=Super Mario 3D World Killer-App De La Wii U ?|url=http://www.jdli.com/super-mario-3d-world-killer-app-de-la-wii-u-art-508-1.html|publisher=JDLI.com|accessdate=December 4, 2013|language=French|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150207073601/http://www.jdli.com/super-mario-3d-world-killer-app-de-la-wii-u-art-508-1.html#|archive-date=February 7, 2015|dead-url=yes}}</ref> During the first two weeks of December, the Wii U was the top performing home console in Japan, with 123,665 units sold.<ref>{{cite web|last=Cook|first=Dave|title=Japanese game charts: Puzzles & Dragons Z tops software, Wii U sales up|url=http://www.vg247.com/2013/12/18/japanese-game-charts-puzzles-dragons-z-tops-software-wii-u-sales-up/|publisher=VG247|accessdate=December 19, 2013}}</ref> After one year in the market, the Wii U had sold approximately 150,000 units in the United Kingdom.<ref>{{cite web|last=Phillips|first=Tom|title=PlayStation 4 UK launch sales hit 250k|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2013-12-02-playstation-4-uk-launch-sales-are-over-250k|publisher=Eurogamer.net|accessdate=December 14, 2013}}</ref> According to the [[NPD Group]], Wii U sales in November increased by 340% over sales in October in North America, selling approximately 220,700 units sold in that month.<ref>{{cite web|last=Jackson|first=Mike|title=NPD: PS4 tops Xbox One in North American November sales|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/442452/npd-ps4-tops-xbox-one-in-north-american-november-sales/|publisher=CVG|accessdate=December 14, 2013}}</ref> According to several publications, including NPD Group, December 2013 was the best-selling Wii U month in the US since its launch, selling around 481,000 units.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2014/01/3ds_tops_us_hardware_sales_as_wii_u_achieves_its_highest_month_in_december |title=3DS Tops US Hardware Sales as Wii U Achieves "Its Highest Month" in December |publisher=Nintendo Life |accessdate=January 18, 2014}}</ref> Independent estimates put the number of Wii U consoles sold by the end of 2013 between 4.5 and 5.2 million.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.ign.com/articles/2014/01/07/what-sonys-42-million-ps4s-sold-figure-actually-means | title = What Sony's '4.2 Million PS4s Sold' Figure Actually Means | publisher = IGN | accessdate = January 29, 2014 | date = January 7, 2014 | first = Justin | last = Davis}}</ref> During the fourth quarter of 2013, Nintendo reported that 1.95 million consoles and 9.96 million software units were shipped worldwide.<ref name="nintendosales Q4 2013" />
 
 
 
<!-- Q1 2014 -->
 
In January 2014, citing lower-than-expected sales during the 2013 holiday season, Nintendo announced that Wii U sales forecasts for fiscal year 2014 had been cut from 9 million units to 2.8 million.<ref>{{cite news | url = https://www.reuters.com/article/2014/01/17/nintendo-earnings-idUSL3N0KR26H20140117 | title = UPDATE 2-Nintendo heads for third consecutive annual loss as Wii U flops | accessdate = January 29, 2014 | date = January 17, 2014 | author = Chang-Ran Kim | publisher = Reuters}}</ref> In light of this announcement, the Wii U's long-term viability has been called into question.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.ign.com/articles/2014/01/17/does-it-really-matter-if-the-wii-u-fails | title = Does it Really Matter if the Wii U Fails? | accessdate = January 29, 2014 | date = January 17, 2014 | publisher = IGN | first = Keza | last = MacDonald}}</ref> In February 2014, Nintendo revealed that the Wii U had improved about 180% in year-over-year sales in the United States due to the launch of ''[[Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze]]'', which sold 130,000 copies.<ref>{{cite web|last=Haywald|first=Justin|title=Nintendo's Wii U and 3DS see strong February sales over last year|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-s-wii-u-and-3ds-see-strong-february-sales-over-last-year/1100-6418305/|publisher=GameSpot|accessdate=May 17, 2014}}</ref> By February 26, Wii U sales had surpassed those of the [[Xbox 360]] in Japan.<ref>{{cite web|last=Whitehead|first=Thomas|title=Wii U Lifetime Sales in Japan Overtake the Xbox 360|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2014/02/wii_u_lifetime_sales_in_japan_overtake_the_xbox_360|publisher=Nintendo Life|accessdate=May 17, 2014}}</ref> In March 2014, Nintendo sold just over 70,000 Wii U units, tracking it down 50% less than the [[GameCube]] and 90% less than the [[Wii]] during equivalent time periods.<ref>{{cite web|title=Wii U sales tracking 50% less than GameCube, one-tenth of Wii|url=http://metro.co.uk/2014/04/23/wii-u-sales-tracking-50-less-than-gamecube-one-tenth-of-wii-4706243/|publisher=Metro|accessdate=May 17, 2014}}</ref> During the month, total worldwide sales of the [[PlayStation 4]] surpassed those of the Wii U.<ref>{{cite web|last=Whitehead|first=Thomas|title=Latest PS4 Sales Figures Take it Past Wii U Life-to-Date Q3 Total|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2014/03/latest_ps4_sales_figures_take_it_past_wii_u_life_to_date_q3_total|publisher=Nintendo Life|accessdate=May 17, 2014}}</ref> During the first quarter of 2014, Nintendo reported that 310,000 consoles and 2.91 million software units were shipped worldwide.<ref name="nintendosales Q1 2014"/>
 
 
 
<!-- Q2 2014 -->
 
During an annual investors' meeting, Satoru Iwata revealed Nintendo's projection of 3.6 million Wii U unit sales during the fiscal year ending {{end date|March 2015}}.<ref>{{cite web|last=Whitehead|first=Thomas|title=Satoru Iwata Explains "Conservative" Wii U Sales Projection of Just 3.6 Million Units|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2014/05/satoru_iwata_explains_conservative_wii_u_sales_projection_of_just_36_million_units|publisher=Nintendo Life|accessdate=May 17, 2014}}</ref> On May 22, 2014, Nintendo France announced that sales were 50% higher compared to the last year.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Woitier|first1=Chloe|title=Mario Kart 8 va relancer les ventes de la Wii U|url=http://www.lefigaro.fr/secteur/high-tech/2014/05/22/01007-20140522ARTFIG00230-mario-kart-8-va-relancer-les-ventes-de-la-wii-u.php|website=Le Figaro|publisher=Le Figaro|accessdate=June 2, 2014|language=French}}</ref> With ''Mario Kart 8'' being Nintendo's biggest game launch,<ref>{{cite web|last1=Castle|first1=Matthew|title=Mario Kart 8 and Wii U celebrate chart success!|url=http://www.officialnintendomagazine.co.uk/57958/mario-kart-8-and-wii-u-celebrate-chart-success/|website=Official Nintendo Magazine UK|publisher=Official Nintendo Magazine|accessdate=June 2, 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20141110043503/http://www.officialnintendomagazine.co.uk/57958/mario-kart-8-and-wii-u-celebrate-chart-success/|archivedate=November 10, 2014|deadurl=no}}</ref> Wii U console sales reportedly increased by 666% in the United Kingdom, with the ''Mario Kart 8'' console bundle representing 82% of the region's Wii U console sales for the week.<ref name="MK8 UK hardware">{{cite web|title=Mario Kart 8 boosts UK Wii U hardware sales 666%|first=Tom|last=Ivan|date=June 2, 2014|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/465552/mario-kart-8-boosts-uk-wii-u-hardware-sales-666/|publisher=Computer and Video Games|accessdate=June 2, 2014}}</ref> NPD Group reported that in the United States, when comparing the month of June 2013 to the same month in 2014, Wii U software sales were up 373% and console sales were up 233%.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Peckham|first1=Matt|title=PlayStation 4 Sweeps June Game Sales, While Mario Kart 8 Resuscitates the Wii U|url=http://time.com/3004621/playstation-xbox-mario-kart-wii/|website=Time|publisher=Time|accessdate=July 19, 2014|date=July 18, 2014}}</ref>
 
 
 
<!-- Q4 2014 -->
 
The record would be surpassed in November 2014 by ''[[Super Smash Bros. for Wii U]]'', which sold 490,000 copies in the United States during its first three days of availability.<ref name="cvg-smashwiiusales">{{cite web|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/481700/smash-bros-becomes-fastest-selling-wii-u-game-in-the-us/|title=Super Smash Bros becomes fastest-selling Wii U game in the US|author=Tom Ivan|work=[[Computer and Video Games]]|date=November 25, 2014|accessdate=November 25, 2014|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://archive.is/20141128015902/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/481700/smash-bros-becomes-fastest-selling-wii-u-game-in-the-us|archivedate=November 28, 2014}}</ref> According to Nintendo of America, December 2014 was Wii U's biggest month in terms of sales in the United States. Hardware sales increased 29%, and software sales increased 75% in comparison to December 2013.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.polygon.com/2015/1/15/7554785/nintendo-says-wii-u-just-had-it-biggest-month-of-sales|title=Nintendo says Wii U just had its biggest month of sales|work=Polygon|accessdate=February 22, 2015}}</ref>
 
 
 
In July 2015, Nintendo announced that as of the end of fiscal third quarter 2015, and nearly three years following its launch, it had shipped over ten million Wii U units worldwide. However, sales of Wii U units during this quarter were down in comparison to the same quarter in 2014, with 470,000 units sold (in comparison to 510,000 in 2014). In comparison, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One had each yielded sales of ten million units after approximately one year from their respective launches.<ref name=cnet-10mwiiu>{{cite web|title=Wii U sales finally hit 10 million units as Nintendo nabs tiny profit|url=http://www.cnet.com/news/wii-u-sales-finally-hit-10m-units-as-nintendo-turns-out-tiny-profit/|website=CNET|accessdate=October 13, 2015}}</ref>
 
 
 
=== Impact of Nintendo Switch ===
 
The future of the Wii U was left unclear with Nintendo's announcement of a new console platform codenamed [[Nintendo Switch|NX]], which was scheduled to be launched worldwide in March 2017. Nintendo stated that NX would have a "brand-new concept", and not be a direct successor to the Wii U or [[Nintendo 3DS|3DS]] product lines; in an interview with the ''[[Asahi Shimbun]]'', company president [[Tatsumi Kimishima]] reiterated this position and stated that while he thinks that the Wii U business would "slow" after the release of NX, he felt that the console would "have a larger impact than the Wii U".<ref name="vg247-nxsuccessor">{{cite web|title=Nintendo NX "is neither the successor to the Wii U nor to the 3DS"|url=https://www.vg247.com/2016/05/16/nintendo-nx-is-neither-the-successor-to-the-wii-u-nor-to-the-3ds/|website=VG24/7|accessdate=May 17, 2016}}</ref> The announcement that ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild]]'' was in development for both Wii U and NX further supported Nintendo's view of the console as being a new product line, rather than a replacement for its existing hardware.<ref name="geekcom-wontreplace">{{cite web|title=Nintendo NX launches March 2017, won’t simply replace Wii U and 3DS|url=http://www.geek.com/games/nintendo-nx-launches-march-2017-wont-simply-replace-wii-u-and-3ds-1653398/|website=Geek.com|accessdate=May 3, 2016}}</ref><ref name=CnetNX>{{cite web|last1=Westaway|first1=Luke|title=Nintendo will make games for phones, new 'NX' system|url=http://www.cnet.com/news/mario-set-for-smartphones-as-nintendo-forges-new-mobile-deal/|website=CNET|accessdate=March 17, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Reilly|first1=Luke|title=Nintendo NX Will Launch In March 2017|url=http://ign.com/articles/2016/04/27/nintendo-nx-will-launch-in-march-2017/|website=[[IGN]]|publisher=[[Ziff Davis]]|accessdate=April 27, 2016|date=April 27, 2016}}</ref><ref name="ign-zelda17">{{cite web|title=Zelda Wii U Delayed to 2017, Also Coming to NX|url=http://ca.ign.com/articles/2016/04/27/zelda-wii-u-delayed-to-2017-also-coming-to-nx|website=IGN|publisher=Ziff Davis Media|accessdate=May 3, 2016}}</ref> In a shareholders report in July 2016, Kimishima and Miyamoto stated that they had expected the Wii U to sell one hundred million units, comparable to the success of the Wii, but with only thirteen million units sold worldwide, they would now need to rely on NX to make up for losses on Wii U sales.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2016-07-07-wii-u-was-expected-to-sell-100-million-units | title = Wii U was expected to sell 100 million units | first = James | last = Brightman | date = July 7, 2016 | accessdate = July 7, 2016 | work = [[GamesIndustry.biz]] }}</ref>
 
 
 
The new platform, now known as [[Nintendo Switch]], was officially announced on October 20, 2016; it is a [[tablet computer|tablet]]-like [[hybrid video game console]] with detachable controllers, and the ability to be placed in a [[docking station]] with an output to allow games to be played on a television. Although it is a hybrid device capable of being used as both a portable and home console, Nintendo officially positioned the platform as "a home gaming system first and foremost". Following the unveiling, a Nintendo spokesperson confirmed that the company would slow production of Wii U hardware, stating that "as we prepare for the launch of Nintendo Switch in March of 2017, Nintendo will ship 800,000 Wii U hardware units to the global market for this fiscal year."<ref name="polygon-homefirst2">{{cite web|url=http://www.polygon.com/2016/10/20/13347910/nintendo-switch-home-gaming-system|title=Nintendo: Switch is a home gaming system ‘first and foremost’|last=Crecente|first=Brian|date=October 20, 2016|website=[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]|accessdate=October 20, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2016/10/what-we-now-know-about-the-nintendo-switch/|title=One day later, additional Nintendo Switch details dribble out|last=Orland|first=Kyle|date=October 21, 2016|work=[[Ars Technica]]|access-date=October 21, 2016|via=[[Condé Nast]]}}</ref> In mid-November 2016, Nintendo announced that Japanese production of the Wii U would be ending "in the near future", and that shipments to the North American and European markets for the year had already been sent out.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/11/10/nintendo-officially-announces-wii-u-production-is-ending-in-japan | title = Nintendo Officially Announces Wii U Production is Ending | first = Alex | last = Osborn | date = November 11, 2016 | accessdate = November 11, 2016 | work = [[IGN]] }}</ref>
 
  
In an interview with ''[[Time (magazine)|Time Magazine]]'' in January 2017, [[Reggie Fils-Aimé]] commented that the system was "a necessary step, in order to get to Nintendo Switch." Fils-Aimé also compared the system to the [[GameCube]], claiming that the Wii U will be remembered fondly despite its relatively poor sales.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Peckham|first1=Matt|title=Nintendo America Boss: Switch Will Have 'Nintendo Flair'|url=http://time.com/4635415/nintendo-switch-online-reggie-fils-amie/|accessdate=January 15, 2017|work=TIME.com|date=January 15, 2017}}</ref> Fils-Aimé stated that the commercial failure of the Wii U, specifically the lack of clarity of the Wii U GamePad's function, and the lack of support from third-party publishers to build out its software library, led to how they changed the marketing and promotion for the Switch. He said the Switch's promotion was developed "to make it crystal clear what the proposition is" for the systems, and that they had "strong support" from large and small software developers and publishers to support the new console.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://money.cnn.com/2017/11/09/technology/nintendo-switch-wii-u/index.html | title = Nintendo exec: Failed Wii U is responsible for Switch's success | first = Kaya | last = Yuriff | date = November 9, 2017 | accessdate =November 10, 2017 | work = [[CNN]] }}</ref>
+
The [[Nintendo Network#Nintendo TVii|Nintendo TVii]] service allowed program listings from a user's television provider to be aggregated with online video on demand services into an [[electronic program guide]] with recommendations and search functionality, and the ability to use the GamePad's infrared functionality to tune a [[set-top box]] to a particular program. The app also provided integration with [[IMDB]], [[Rotten Tomatoes]], and [[Wikipedia]] to provide additional information, and social connectivity through [[Facebook]], [[Twitter]], or Miiverse. TVii was made available with the Wii U's release in Japan on December 8, 2012, and in North America on December 20, 2012. Following delays, a European launch was cancelled, and the service was discontinued in North America on August 11, 2015. The service was discontinued in Japan on November 8, 2017.
  
In mid-January 2017, Fils-Aimé told ''Polygon'' that ''Breath of the Wild'', which would ship at launch with the Switch in March 2017, would be Nintendo's final first-party title for Wii U.<ref name="polygon-lastgame">{{cite web|title=Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild will be the last Nintendo game for Wii U|url=https://www.polygon.com/2017/1/19/14313914/legend-of-zelda-breath-of-the-wild-last-nintendo-game-for-wii-u|website=Polygon|publisher=Vox Media|date=January 19, 2017|accessdate=January 19, 2017}}</ref> Nintendo formally announced that production of the Wii U had ended worldwide on January 31, 2017.<ref name="kotaku eol"/>
+
[[Category:Nintendo consoles]]

Latest revision as of 19:17, 5 February 2019

Wii U
WiiU.svg
Wii U Console and Gamepad.png
A Wii U console (right) and Wii U GamePad (left).
Also known as Project Café (code name)
Developer Nintendo IRD, NTD
Manufacturer Nintendo, Foxconn, Mitsumi
Type Home video game console
Generation Eighth generation
Release date US / CA: November 18, 2012
MEX / SA: November 29, 2012
EU / AU: November 30, 2012
JP: December 8, 2012
BR: November 26, 2013
Retail availability 2012–2017
Introductory price US$299/¥26,250 (Basic Set)
US$349/¥31,500 (Deluxe/Premium Set)
Discontinued WW: January 31, 2017
Units sold Worldwide: 13.56 million
(2017-03-31)
Media

Physical and digital

Operating system Wii U system software
CPU 1.24 GHz Tri-Core IBM PowerPC "Espresso"
Memory 2 GB DDR3
Storage Internal flash memory:
GB (Basic Set) / 32 GB (Deluxe Set)
SD/SDHC card
USB storage device
Display

Video output formats

Composite video
Component video
(480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p)

HDMI (480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p)

Wii U GamePad (FWVGA)
Graphics 550 MHz AMD Radeon "Latte"
Sound 5.1 Linear PCM, Analog stereo
Controller input

Wii U GamePad, Wii U Pro Controller, Wii Remote (Plus)

Wii Balance Board
Camera 1.3 Megapixels (Wii U GamePad)
Touchpad Resistive touchscreen (Wii U GamePad)
Connectivity Wi-Fi IEEE 802.11 b/g/n
Bluetooth 4.0
4 × USB 2.0
Power 75 W
Online services

Nintendo Network

Dimensions Width: 17.2 cm (6.8 in)
Height: 4.6 cm (1.8 in)
Length: 26.9 cm (10.6 in)
Mass 1.5 kilograms (3.3 lb)
Best-selling game Mario Kart 8, 8.42 million
(2018-03-31)
Backward
compatibility
Wii
Predecessor Wii
Successor Nintendo Switch
Website https://www.nintendo.com/wiiu

Introduction[edit]

The Wii U is a home video game console developed by Nintendo, and the successor to the Wii. The console was released in November 2012 and was the first eighth-generation video game console, as it competed with Microsoft's Xbox One and Sony's PlayStation 4.

The Wii U is the first Nintendo console to support HD graphics. The system's primary controller is the Wii U GamePad, which features an embedded touchscreen, and combines directional buttons, analog sticks, and action buttons. The screen can be used either as a supplement to the main display (either providing an alternate, asymmetric gameplay experience, or a means of local multiplayer without resorting to a split screen), or in supported games, to play the game directly on the GamePad independently of the television. The Wii U is backward compatible with all Wii software and accessories – games can support any combination of the GamePad, Wii Remote, Nunchuk, Balance Board, or Nintendo's more traditionally designed Classic Controller or Wii U Pro Controller for input. Online functionality centers around the Nintendo Network platform and Miiverse, an integrated social networking service which allows users to share content in game-specific communities.

The Wii U was met with a generally positive reception, including praise for its GamePad controller, improvements to online functionality over the Wii, backwards compatibility with existing Wii software and controllers, affordability in comparison to other eighth-generation consoles, and non-reliance on a subscription for online functionality. However, the Wii U received criticism in several areas, including the GamePad's battery life and issues with the console's user interface and functionality, along with a weak lineup of launch titles and a lack of clear vision. The Wii U was met with slow consumer adoption, with low sales primarily credited to a weak lineup of launch titles, limited third-party support, and poor marketing. Wii U production officially ended in January 2017. On March 3, 2017, Nintendo released a new flagship home console, the Nintendo Switch, although the Wii U was noted for pioneering several concepts that were refined in the Switch.

Specifications[edit]

Hardware[edit]

The black Wii U console, with 32 GB of internal storage.

The Wii U uses a custom multi-chip module (MCM) developed by AMD, IBM and Renesas in co-operation with Nintendo IRD and Nintendo Technology Development. The MCM combines an "Espresso" central processing unit (CPU) and a "Latte" graphics chip (GPU), as well as a SEEPROM memory chip. The Espresso CPU, designed by IBM, consists of a PowerPC 750-based tri-core processor with 3 MB of shared L2 cache memory and clocked at approximately 1.24 GHz. Despite belonging to the PowerPC family, the Espresso also shares some architectural concepts with the POWER7 architecture, such as the use of eDRAM cache and being manufactured at a 45 nm node. The Latte graphics chip contains both a "GX2" GPGPU, which runs Wii U applications, and a "GX" GPU, which enables backward compatibility with Wii games. The GX2, designed by AMD, is based on the Radeon R600/R700 architecture and is clocked at approximately 550 MHz. It is manufactured at a 40 nm node and contains 32 MB of eDRAM cache memory, which can also act as L3 cache for the CPU. The GX, originally designed by ArtX, contains a 1 MB and a 2 MB banks of eSRAM cache memory. The Latte chip also includes a secondary custom ARM9 processor with 96 KB of SRAM memory that handles system tasks in the background during gameplay or while the system is in sleep mode, and dedicated hardware audio DSP module.

The console contains 2 GB of DDR3 system memory consisting of four 512 MB DRAM chips with a maximum bandwidth of 12.8 GB/s. This is 20 times the amount found in the Wii. Of this, 1 GB is reserved for the operating system and is unavailable to games. The memory architecture allows the CPU and GPU to access both the main DDR3 memory pool and the eDRAM cache memory pool on the GPU, removing the need for separate, dedicated memory pools. The console includes either an 8 GB (Basic) or 32 GB (Deluxe (NA) / Premium (WW)) internal eMMC flash memory, expandable via SD memory cards up to 32 GB and USB external hard disk drives up to 2 TB.

The Wii U features 802.11 b/g /n wireless network connectivity and support for Fast Ethernet with an accessory, Bluetooth 4.0, a total of four USB 2.0 ports, and an SD/SDHC memory card slot. An additional power port is also included to power the Wii Sensor Bar, an auxiliary infrared emitter used by Wii Remote peripherals for motion tracking. Video output options include 1080p, 1080i, 720p, 576i, 480p and 480i, through HDMI 1.4 and component video (YPbPr, D-Terminal and RGB SCART) or 576i, 480i anamorphic widescreen through composite video (S-Video, SCART and D-Terminal). Audio output options include six-channel 5.1 linear PCM surround sound or analog stereo. The console also supports stereoscopic (3D) images and video.

Controllers[edit]

An illustration of the Wii U GamePad (White)

The Wii U GamePad is the console's primary controller: its main feature is a built-in 6.2 inch (15.7 cm) resistive touchscreen, which can be used as a companion to games being played on a television, or as a means of playing games on the GamePad itself without a television. The GamePad is designed to enable a concept referred to by Nintendo as "asymmetric gaming": in multiplayer games, a player using the GamePad may have a different gameplay objective and experience than other players.

The GamePad's display contents are rendered on the Wii U itself, and streamed wirelessly as video to the GamePad. The GamePad also supports near field communications; cards and specially-designed figurines, such as Nintendo's Amiibo line, can be used with the GamePad to interact with games. In Japan, it can also be used for contactless payments from eShop with Suica cards.

The Wii U Pro Controller, a more conventional controller compared to the Gamepad.

A new Wii U Pro Controller was released alongside the Wii U. The Wii U Pro Controller is an updated version of the Wii's Classic Controller that is designed to appeal to "hardcore" players, with a more traditional gamepad design that resembles those used by the PlayStation and Xbox lines (and in particular, the Xbox 360's controller), and a claimed 80-hour battery life.

The Wii U is compatible with existing Wii Remote and Wii Remote Plus controllers, along with their Nunchuk and Classic Controller attachments. A combination of up to four Wii Remotes or Pro Controllers can be used simultaneously, and the console can theoretically support up to two GamePads. Most software requires a Wii Sensor Bar in order to use Wii Remotes with the system, though some aspects, such as Off-TV Play and the Wii Mode, allow the Wii U GamePad to detect Wii Remotes. The Wii U does not natively support GameCube controllers. While a USB adapter accessory allows GameCube controllers to be used on the console in Super Smash Bros. for Wii U, it is not compatible with any other software.

Software[edit]

The Wii U's main menu has two main components: by default, the GamePad displays a home screen consisting of a grid with shortcuts to games and apps, while the television screen displays a lobby (WaraWara Plaza) populated by other users' Miis. The two displays can be switched between the television screen and GamePad.

Pressing the controller's "Home" button suspends the current game or app and opens the Home Menu: it shows basic information (such as the current time, controller battery levels, and notifications), and allows access to several "multitasking" functions, including the Nintendo eShop, Miiverse, download manager, a web browser, and the user's friends list. To play Wii games, the user must enter "Wii Mode", a legacy mode that emulates the Wii's system software and Wii Menu interface. Initially, Wii Mode could only be used on the television screen, but the October 2013 firmware update enables Wii Mode to be used off-TV. Either way, Wii controllers must be used.

Online services[edit]

The Wii U uses the Nintendo Network platform for online services (replacing the friend code system of the Wii), enabling online multiplayer, downloading and purchasing games or apps via Nintendo eShop, video chat using the GamePad's camera and the Wii U Chat service, and other services. Up to twelve accounts can be created per console.

A social networking service known as Miiverse is integrated into the Wii U's system software; it allows players to interact and share content in game-specific communities using their Mii as an avatar. Miiverse allows users to share accomplishments, screenshots, drawings and hand-written notes. Select games are integrated with Miiverse, where social interactions can also occur within the game, or appear within their content (such as in Splatoon, where drawn posts can appear as graffiti on walls in its settings). Miiverse is moderated through software filtering as well as a human resource team in order to ensure that the content shared by users is appropriate and that no spoilers are shared. In order to facilitate this, it was initially stated that comments posted could take up to 30 minutes to appear on Miiverse.

Multimedia integration[edit]

The Wii U supports online video services through apps, such as Amazon Video, Crunchyroll, Hulu, Netflix, and YouTube. The Wii U does not support playback of DVD or Blu-ray Disc; Iwata explained that the decision to exclude these formats was motivated primarily by patent licensing fees, and the fact that such functionality would be redundant to DVD and Blu-ray players that users may already own.

The Nintendo TVii service allowed program listings from a user's television provider to be aggregated with online video on demand services into an electronic program guide with recommendations and search functionality, and the ability to use the GamePad's infrared functionality to tune a set-top box to a particular program. The app also provided integration with IMDB, Rotten Tomatoes, and Wikipedia to provide additional information, and social connectivity through Facebook, Twitter, or Miiverse. TVii was made available with the Wii U's release in Japan on December 8, 2012, and in North America on December 20, 2012. Following delays, a European launch was cancelled, and the service was discontinued in North America on August 11, 2015. The service was discontinued in Japan on November 8, 2017.