Wii

The official name of Nintendo's fifth generation gaming console, successor to the Gamecube. Previously code-named the Revolution, it has been made to do just that: Revolutionize gaming. Utilizing innovative technology, including a motion-detecting controller, and boasting an enormous library of older games ranging from the Nintendo Entertainment System to the present and a backward-compatible virtual console to play them on, it is sure to do so. Its media drive accepts DVD-sized discs as well as 8 cm Gamecube discs. Information circulating recently suggests that the base will not only assist the Wii in maintaining its erect position (excuse the pun), but also act as a power source when being used abroad. The controller, paired with sensors placed on either side of the television screen is capable of detecting movement in 3D space. In this way, many actions possible in the game can be simulated and controlled by the user. It is rumored to have various extensions, called "shells," to change the style of gameplay accordingly to a certain game. For example, as illustrated by IGN, a gun-shaped shell could adapt the controller for FPS-style play. They are to be attached at the base of the controller, where an expansion port is located. A nunchaku-style analog extension has been confirmed, which will serve as a means of traditional gameplay (i.e. Gamecube), though the GCN's controllers can be used as well. Nintendo has also claimed to provide free Wi-Fi (wireless fidelity) services for online gaming. Specifications according to Wikipedia: # Processors: * IBM "Broadway" CPU * ATI "Hollywood" GPU # Memory: * Unknown amount of RAM * 512 MB built-in flash memory.12 # Ports and Peripherals: * Two USB 2.0 ports. * Support for wireless controllers. * 4 Nintendo GameCube controller ports and 2 Nintendo GameCube memory card ports (for backward compatibility). * Optional USB PC-compatible 802.11b (Wi-Fi) wireless attachment. (see Connectivity) # Media: * Slot-loading optical disc drive compatible with both 12 cm Wii optical discs and 8.0 cm GameCube optical discs (1.5 GB) as well as standard DVD discs. * 2 Front-loading SD memory card slots. # Built-in content ratings system: * PEGI 3+, 7+, 12+, 16+, 18+ * ESRB EC, E, E10+, T, M, and AO. * CERO All Ages, 12+, 15+ 18+. * OFLC G, PG, M, MA15+ # Networking * Wi-Fi by Broadcom # Video: * up to 480p13 and will work with a computer monitor as well as any TV or projector. It is often unfairly yet understandably ridiculed for the unfortunate connotations its name holds in American culture, its controller design which could very well be mistaken as a television remote, as well as its inferior system specifications (does not support High Definition TV, is marginally superior to the Xbox) as contrasted with Sony's Playstation 3 and Microsoft's Xbox 360 consoles. However, it is anticipated to be successful by fanboys, speculators, and developers alike with its daring interface and the games that will come as a result of it. Much more will be revealed about the system during E3 of 2006.