Nintendo-Wii, the seventh generation video game systems, was launched by Nintendo in September 2006. The Wii video system pronounced `we` gather people of all ages and experience, together to play. The evocative name coupled with classic features, Nintendo Wii, has caused lot of ripples in the video game industry and it targets to broader section of people than occupied by Sony`s PlayStation 3 and Microsoft`s Xbox360. As of December 31st, 2007, 20.13 million of Nintendo Wii has been sold.
The current package includes the following: Wii console, remote with strap, one Nunchuk, AC adaptor, composite A/V cable, console stand, sensor bar and stand, two AA batteries and sports game.
The most extraordinary feature of this gaming console is the wireless controller, the Wii Remote and the WiiConnect 24. Measuring 1.7 x 6.2 x 8.5 inches (44 x 157 x 215.4 mm), and weighing only 2.6 lbs (1.2 kg), Nintendo wii comes as the smallest home gaming console and lightest among the three major players of the seventh generation gaming consoles.
The Wii has a powerful 512 MB internal flash memory, two number USB 2.0 ports and a slot provided for SD memory expansion. The SD card can be used for a variety of purpose, for example, as a back up for saved game data and downloaded virtual console games, for uploading photos, for creating customized music in the game, etc.
The heart of the system`s technology is a processing chip developed along with IBM and graphics chip from ATI. The processor chip is named as `Broadway` and the graphics chip is named as `Hollywood`. It uses a single, self loading media bay that plays both Nintendo Gamecube discs as well as 12 centimeter optical discs required for the new system.
The magical Wii remote has some striking features. The accelerometers located inside the controller and infrared detector to sense the position in 3D space can measure movements at all speeds and all directions. In a driving game it serves as your steering wheel. In Tennis game, you can use this as your racket to swing away and there are many more examples. The controller has expansion port for use with accessories as well it has force feedback `Rumble` features. The Wii Remote also has a small speaker at the center, allowing players to hear sounds programmed directly into the controller.
If you prefer the feel of a traditional controller, you can connect an adapter which is available and easily fits over the Wii`s remote.
The Wii console is backward compatible with Nintendo Gamecube software. The console can communicate with internet even when there is no power. It can also communicate with Nintendo DS wirelessly without any accessories.
The WiiConnect 24 allows download to players via the Internet. The downloadable items may include weapons, new level costumes, etc. WiiConnect 24 while keeps Wii on all day long, uses minimal energy. However players can deactivate this at any time.
Wii`s operating system interface is divided into a number of smaller channels, designed similar to the television channels. The channels are graphically displayed in a grid and can be easily navigated using Wii Remote. A short list of the available channels is as follows: forecast channel, photo channel, news channel, virtual console channel(s), Wii Shop Channel, internet channel, Wii message board, everybody votes channel and disc channel.
While playing offline, a maximum of four controllers can be used in Wii. Rather than focusing only on a costly technology, Nintendo is looking forward to put an emphasis on gameplay and innovation with Wii and company`s intention is to reach out to everybody including amateurs.
