The Wii U is finally here! The next-generation Nintendo system brings the video game giant into high definition for the first time in the company’s history, also brings robust online functionality with it (again, a first for the company), and comes in a tidy package that includes a fun pack-in Nintendo Land game, an innovative touchscreen controller, and even an HDMI cable. This guide breaks down exactly what you can expect from the Wii U package, and how to get started as quickly and effectively as possible.
Inside the box, you’ll find the Wii U console (about the same size as the original Wii, but a bit sleeker), a GamePad controller (complete with touchscreen), a stylus to use with the GamePad, an HDMI cable and the power cable. This is with both the 8 GB (white) and 32 GB (black) bundles. The Deluxe (32 GB) bundle also comes with a copy of the game Nintendo Land, which is otherwise sold separately. It also comes with a charging stand, play stand, console stand and membership to the Nintendo Network Premium loyalty program, which gives you discounts on game purchases done online.
One important thing to note: the original Wii remote and Nunchuk are not included, although the Wii U bundles come with a motion sensing bar. You’ll be able to use old ones for the current Wii just fine. Other accessories, like the wireless Pro Controller and the games, are obviously sold separately.
When it comes to getting up, you’ll simply need to take a moment to sync up your GamePad with your console, along with any other accessories that you’ll be using with it. This is hassle free and is prompted by easy-to-read instructions on both the TV and the GamePad. We found this process to be a lot easier than we remember with the original Wii; just hit the sync button when the system tells you to and voila, you’re set.
The system will also guide you to setting up an Internet connection. The Wii U automatically configures itself for your WiFi network, although you’ll need to know your network name and password to connect. If you’ve set up your Wii or Nintendo DS or Nintendo 3DS for the Internet, you’ll find the process familiar and, again, easy.
Once you set up the connection, you’re going to have to wait just a few minutes longer before popping in a game. There’s a mandatory update in order for the Wii U to continue working online. You’ll need to download the day one update through the Nintendo Network (which you’ll be automatically prompted to do), and it takes about 4 GB of space in your HDD. Depending on traffic and your bandwidth, it should only be about 10-15 minutes until it’s downloaded. It’ll automatically install to the system, and you’ll be on your way.
We’ve found this video of Bill from Nintendo’s Treehouse team, who talks more in-depth about how to set up your Nintendo Network ID and the number of features that intertwine with the network, including the previously announced Miiverse.
Good news is Nintendo is forgoing the usual Friend Code set-up that they have on other systems in favor of registering a particular name ID (clean, of course – don’t get any filthy ideas or try to trademark some famous name), which should make it easier to find friends. You can associate up to 12 different user profiles for a single Wii U system so if you have a significant other and kids, you don’t have to force them to use your profile to hop on. Lastly, any game purchases you make on the device through the Nintendo Network will be unlocked for anyone to play, though they remain with that specific console.
Each user will be able to set up specific data tailored to them, including creating a specific Mii character (who can then interact in the online MiiVerse through voice chat and messaging), checking over their play history, looking through their bookmarks and adjusting game settings and saves. It works with a user-friendly menu system, so you won’t have to worry about getting lost. Switching between users is as easy as clicking the Mii icon in the upper-left of the GamePad screen, and you can set one user to automatically login whenever you turn on the system.
Nintendo has confirmed that your previously downloaded games for Wii, including WiiWare titles and Virtual Console games, can be ported over with ease to the Wii U. You’ll need a big memory card – probably about 32 GB should do the trick, sold separately – and the download update on the Wii Shop Channel for your original system. Simply download the update, transfer the data to the memory card (along with any games you have) and then switch the card over to the Wii U slot and install them there. (Nintendo has stated that some particular games will need to be re-downloaded, but didn’t specify as to what.) While the games play just fine on your TV, it should be noted that you can’t play WiiWare and Virtual Console games using the GamePad display.
As for Miiverse, not only are you able to converse with people through video chat (via the installed camera and mic on the GamePad), but you can also take pictures of in-game action should you get stuck in a particularly hard level of ZombiU. (And that’s one tough mother, so don’t be afraid to ask!)
Comments can also be blocked if some people don’t want to be spoiled by that particular game yet. The set-up supports worldwide users, so you can communicate with others through messaging. Some games, like Nintendo Land, even support picture messages, like an instant greeting to someone new that walks up.
There you have it. Nintendo is really making strides to assure that the Wii U isn’t just another game console. The social aspect of it looks amazing (we didn’t even touch Nintendo TVii yet, which launches in December), and the interaction with games through a more helpful Nintendo Network set-up (bye bye, Friend Codes!) should make it less hassling than most of their online endeavors. Now if we could just get an online Mario Kart game to take advantage of all this…
Enjoy the Wii U if you were lucky enough to snag one, and good luck if you’re on the hunt. We’ll have more on Nintendo’s next-generation console here at Prima, so be sure to visit.
