[Rösti]

Official US Wii U Homepage | Official EU Wii U Homepage | Official JP Wii U Homepage

Hey paisanos, and welcome to the Wii U Release Day thread. Would ya look at it, here we are finally. It feels almost like it was yesterday we had it debut at E3 2011. Though of course, with very little information gone out before E3 this year, the wait has been long. But it's about to be no more, for on Sunday, the 18th of November, Reggie's ready to hand out the first console to an eager customer (will it be Triforce?) at the Nintendo World Store in New York. And I'm sure there will be plenty of release parties not only in The Big Apple but all across North America (and maybe elsewhere as well, for those that have imported). All in all, we're only a few days away from launch, and I hope this thread will come in handy.


New: Wii U EU (UK) Launch Guide

US Release date: 18th of November (Sunday)
EU Release date: 30th of November (Friday)
JP Release date: 8th of December (Saturday)

US Wii U Manuals: http://www.nintendo.com/consumer/manuals/wiiu.jsp

US Price: 299.99$/349.99$
EU Price: 299.99€/349.99€
JP Price: 26,250¥/31,500¥

Basic Set/Deluxe Set

US Launch titles: >29
EU Launch titles: >25
JP Launch titles: >10


The Wii U GamePad is what differentiates the console from the rest of the bunch (well, at least Xbox 360 and PS3, don't know about Durango, Orbis etc.). The controller offers a new way for players to experience games and other entertainment. It features a 6.2-inch, 16:9 aspect ratio LCD touch screen, as well as traditional button controls and two analog sticks. Available colors are black and white, depending on what hardware set you buy. Initially the controller won't be available as standalone product, but this may change as developers learn how to take better use of the hardware and enable game experiences that utilize two Wii U GamePads at once.

Inputs include: a +Control Pad, L/R sticks | L/R stick buttons | A/B/X/Y buttons | L/R buttons | ZL/ZR buttons
Power button | HOME button | -/SELECT button | +/START button and TV CONTROL button

Other features include: A front-facing camera | A microphone | An included stylus | A sensor bar | Motion control
Rumble features | Stereo speakers | Support for Near Field Communication (NFC) functionality

It is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and weighs approximately 1.1 pounds (500 g).


In North America, Wii U will be released in two initial sets - Basic Set and Deluxe Set. The US release date is the 18th of November.

Basic Set retails for $299.99*, Deluxe Set retails for $349.99*.

*MSRP

Basic Set Contents:

• White Wii U Hardware (8GB Internal storage)
• Wii U GamePad
• Wii U GamePad Stylus
• Sensor bar
• Wii U console AC adapter
• Wii U GamePad AC adapter
• HDMI® cable
• Instruction manual

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Deluxe Set Contents:

• Black Wii U Hardware (32GB Internal storage)
• Wii U GamePad
• Wii U GamePad Stylus
• Sensor bar
• Wii U console AC adapter
• Wii U GamePad AC adapter
• HDMI® cable
• Nintendo Land video game
• Deluxe Digital Promotion
• Wii U GamePad Stand
• Wii U GamePad Cradle
• Wii U Console Stand
• Instruction manual

Also to mention regarding the Deluxe Set is that it comes with a Digital Promotion:

Earn approximately 10% of the price paid at the Nintendo eShop for games and content. Earn approximately 10% of the Nintendo eShop MSRP on download codes purchased at retailers. Both games published by Nintendo and by other publishers are eligible for Points. Games and content purchased at the Wii Shop Channel or on Nintendo 3DS are not eligible for Points. Points are only earned on purchases over 10 cents and at 10 cent increments. Owners of the Wii U Basic Set do not qualify for Deluxe Digital Promotion Canadian residents are eligible for the Deluxe Digital Promotion, and can receive a code for $5 CAD in Nintendo eShop Credit per 500 Points. Activation codes earned from the Deluxe Digital Promotion must be redeemed at the Nintendo eShop by the end of June 2015.

Source: http://ddp.nintendo.com/







Just like it's predecessor, Wii U features a bunch of accessories.

Wii U Pro Controller: For use with certain games. Works like the Wii Classic Controller (Pro).
Wii U Microphone: Used mainly for SiNG Party and similar games.
Wii Remote Plus/Nunchuk: These are only Wii U branded and differ nothing from what it used on Wii.
Wii U GamePad Cradle and Stand (not depicted]: A charging cradle for charging the Wii U GamePad and a stand for resting the GamePad on when playing.
Wii U Console Stand (not depicted): A stand to securely display your Wii U console in a vertical position.

Wii U styluses will most likely be available day one as well. Wii Nunchuks are available also in white, and Wii Remotes are available in blue and pink as well. Several third party manufactured accessories will be available at or shortly after launch, including screen protectors, protective cases for the controller and much more.

Image not to scale

And now to the most important of course, the games! You can't have a console without something to play on it. Well, sure you can but wouldn't that be incredibly boring?

Wii U is launching with 29 packaged games, plus a handful of digital games

MSRP's from here: http://happyholidays.nintendo.com/

Press release: http://www.businesswire.com/news/hom...ntroduces-Play

Available 18th of November

• Assassin's Creed 3 | MSRP $59.99
• Batman: Arkham City Armored Edition | MSRP $59.99
• Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 | MSRP $59.99
• Chasing Aurora (eShop)
• Darksiders 2 | MSRP $59.99
• Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two
• EA Sports FIFA Soccer 13
• ESPN Sports Connection
• Game Party Champions | MSRP $49.99
• Just Dance 4 | MSRP $49.99
• Little Inferno (eShop)
• Madden NFL 13
• Mighty Switch Force: Hyper Drive Edition (eShop)
• Nano Assault NEO (eShop)
• NBA 2K13
• New Super Mario Bros. U
• Ninja Gaiden 3: Razor's Edge | MSRP $59.99
• Nintendo Land
• Rabbids Land
• Scribblenauts Unlimited | MSRP $59.99
• Skylanders Giants | MSRP $74.99
• Sing Party | MSRP $59.99
• Sonic And All-Stars Racing Transformed
• TANK! TANK! TANK!
• Tekken Tag Tournament 2 Wii U Edition | MSRP $59.99
• Transformers Prime
• Trine 2: Director’s Cut
• Warriors Orochi 3 Hyper
• Wipeout 3
• Your Shape: Fitness Evolved 2013 | MSRP $49.99
• ZombiU | MSRP $59.99

Available during launch window

• Funky Barn
• 007 Legends
• Cabela's Dangerous Hunts 2013
• Rapala Pro Bass Fishing
• Chasing Aurora
• Cloudberry Kingdom
• Rise of the Guardians: The Video Game
• Ben 10 Omniverse
• Family Party: 30 Great Games Obstacle Arcade
• Mass Effect 3
• Runner2: Future Legend of Rhythm Alien
• Mighty Switch Force HD
• TANK! TANK! TANK!
• Game & Wario
• LEGO City: Undercover
• Pikmin 3
• Wii Fit U
• The Wonderful 101
• Aliens: Colonial Marines
• Nano Assault Neo
• JEOPARDY!
• Wheel of Fortune
• Little Inferno
• Toki Tori 2
• Marvel Avengers: Battle for Earth
• Rayman Legends

I won't go into too much details about the system features of Wii U, but I'll mention them briefly:

Update: Some of these features, namely Nintendo TVii, won't be enabled at launch but in December.

• Nintendo TVii is a TV service in which you can browse subscribed programming (cable/satellite channels), video-on-demand services and TiVo shows. You can watch the shows directly on the Wii U GamePad. The service will be available in the United States and Canada at launch for users with a broadband wireless Internet connection.
  
  
• Miiverse is Nintendo's new online community in where you will be able to with your Mii character interact with other players in many interesting ways.
  
  
• Nintendo eShop is the digital store for Wii U. A wide variety of downloadable games and content will be ready at launch day, with select games that are also available at retail stores.
  
  
• Video Chat is available via the GamePad's built-in camera. You can in real time video chat with friends and enemies who also have a Wii U console.
  
  
• Internet Browser is also featured on Wii U. Whether's it's cute kittens, sloppy bukkake or something entirely different you wanna look at, Wii U's NetFront NX web browser will have it ready for you in a matter of seconds. It doesn't support Adobe Flash nor can you upload or download things with it, but it's still a cool thing. Also features a curtain mode if you wanna suprise friends with... something.
  
  
• The Wii U GamePad can be used as an infrared TV remote that lets you conveniently change channels, adjust volume or browse a programming guide.
  
  
• Near Field Communication (NFC) enables the Wii U GamePad to communicate wirelessly with physical objects held above it. This will allow for many interesting gameplay experiences, where the upcoming Rayman Legends is a good example.

Wii U is also backwards compatible with nearly all Wii games and Wii accessories.

For a more detailed description of each feature, you can visit the official Wii U homepage: http://www.nintendo.com/wiiu/features/#/

The below are the basic technical specifications of the console. If you want to discuss the capabilities of Wii U's CPU, GPU etc., you can do so here.
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Size: Approximately 1.8 inches (4.5 cm) high, 10.6 inches (26.9 cm) deep and 6.75 (17.1 cm) inches long.
Weight: Approximately 3.5 pounds (1.6 kg).

Other Controllers: The Wii U console supports one Wii U GamePad controller, up to four Wii Remote (or Wii Remote Plus) controllers or Wii U Pro Controllers, and Wii accessories such as the Nunchuk, Classic Controller and Wii Balance Board. In the future, the Wii U console will support, depending on the software, two Wii U GamePad controllers.

CPU: IBM Power-based multi-core processor.
GPU: AMD Radeon-based High Definition GPU.
Storage: Internal flash memory for data storage. Also supports external USB storage.
Media formats: Wii U (25 GB) and Wii optical discs.
Video Output: Supports 1080p, 1080i, 720p, 480p and 480i. Compatible cables include HDMI, Wii, Component Video, Wii S-Video Stereo AV and Wii AV.
Audio Output: Uses six-channel PCM linear output via HDMI connector, or analog output via the AV Multi Out connector. Also supports Dolby Digital.
Networking: Wireless (IEEE 802.11b/g/n) connection. Wii U features four USB 2.0 connectors that support Wii LAN Adapters for a wired Internet connection.
Wii Compatibility: Nearly all Wii software and accessories can be used with Wii U.
Energy Efficiency: Wii U utilizes specially designed power-saving features to lower its energy consumption.

The official launch party will be held at the Nintendo World Store in New York City. Here's a press release with more information:

WHAT: Consumers will have the chance to be among the first in the world to purchase the Wii U console when the clock strikes midnight on Nov. 18 at Nintendo World in New York’s Rockefeller Plaza. Nintendo of America President and COO Reggie Fils-Aime will be on hand to count down the launch and sell a new Wii U to the first consumer in line. Fans waiting in line will get premium items (while supplies last) during the event. Note that supplies are limited, and systems will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis. Nintendo is also selling New York-themed T-shirts with Mario’s image at the event. All proceeds from sales of the shirts will be donated to the American Red Cross in support of relief efforts from the effects of Hurricane Sandy. The new Wii U home console offers entirely new ways for consumers to play games in HD and enjoy their favorite programming. More than 20 games will be available for Wii U at launch, which will be offered in two different colors and configurations. The Basic Set will be offered in white at a suggested retail price of $299.99, while the Deluxe Set, which includes higher storage capacity, additional accessories and the new Nintendo Land video game, will be offered in black at a suggested retail price of $349.99. More information about Wii U can be found at http://www.nintendo.com/wiiu. WHO: Adults, teens, tweens, parents, video game fans and consumers WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 17, 2012 Launch event: 6 p.m. - midnight WHERE: Nintendo World at Rockefeller Plaza 10 Rockefeller Plaza New York, NY 10020 VISUALS: Scores of fans lined up in front of Nintendo World for a chance to be among the first people in the world to purchase the new Wii U console Nintendo of America President and COO Reggie Fils-Aime welcoming consumers to the Wii U launch event Attendees joining together for a midnight countdown as the launch approaches Nintendo of America President and COO Reggie Fils-Aime presenting the first consumer in line with a Wii U Mii costumed characters

Source: http://www.businesswire.com/news/hom...ight-Gathering

Of course there are more stores than Nintendo World to go to. While many more retailers certainly will be stocking Wii U, these are some of the largest and most well known chains that sell video game products.
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[Rösti]

The European hardware sets do not differ from the North American, except for different colour encoding systems, voltages and frequencies of course. And well, they are called Packs and not Sets in Europe.

There is an exclusive for Europeans however - A "Limited Edition " ZombiU Premium Pack

Basic Pack retails for €299.99*, Deluxe Pack retails for $349.99€.

*MSRP

Basic Pack Contents:

• White Wii U Hardware (8GB Internal storage)
• Wii U GamePad
• Wii U GamePad Stylus
• Sensor bar
• Wii U console AC adapter
• Wii U GamePad AC adapter
• HDMI® cable (1.5 m)
• Instruction manual

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Deluxe Pack Contents:

• Black Wii U Hardware (32GB Internal storage)
• Wii U GamePad
• Wii U GamePad Stylus
• Sensor bar
• Wii U console AC adapter
• Wii U GamePad AC adapter
• HDMI® cable (1.5 m)
• Nintendo Land video game
• Deluxe Digital Promotion
• Wii U GamePad Stand
• Wii U GamePad Cradle
• Wii U Console Stand
• Instruction manual

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ZombiU Premium Pack Contents:

Same as Deluxe Pack, but comes with ZombiU instead of Nintendo Land, and features a Pro Controller (and packaging with ZombiU artwork on it).


Available 30th of November

• Assassin's Creed 3
• Batman: Arkham City Armoured Edition
• Ben 10 Omniverse
• Call of Duty: Black Ops II
• Darksiders II
• Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power Of Two
• Family Party: 30 Great Games Obstacle Arcade
• Funky Barn
• FIFA 13
• Game Party Champions
• Just Dance 4
• Marvel Avengers Battle For Earth
• Mass Effect 3: Special Edition
• Nano Assault Neo
• New Super Mario Bros. U
• Nintendo Land
• Rabbids Land
• Skylanders Giants
• Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed Special Edition
• Sports Connection
• TANK! TANK! TANK!
• Tekken Tag Tournament 2 Wii U Edition
• Trine 2: Director's Cut
• Transformers Prime: The Game
• Warriors Orochi 3 Hyper
• Your Shape 2013
• ZombiU

Available during launch window

• 007 Legends
• Aliens: Colonial Marines
• Cabela’s Dangerous Hunts 2013
• Game & Wario
• LEGO City: Undercover
• Madden NFL 13
• Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate
• NBA 2K13
• Ninja Gaiden 3: Razor’s Edge
• Rayman Legends
• Rise of the Guardians
• Runner2: Future Legend of Rhythm Alien
• Scribblenauts Unlimited
• SiNG Party
• Toki Tori 2
• Trine 2: Director’s Cut

As far as I know, Nintendo of Europe will be having no official release party (except for their own internal I suppose). But rest assured, there will be plenty of in-store activities all around Europe. I'll try to do my best listing the most notable retailers for each country and supplying links for their Wii U "theme site".

■ Austria

MediaMarkt
Saturn

Bulgaria

Pulsar

■ Czech Republic

MSRP of the two hardware packs:

Basic Pack: 7990 Kč (about 299€)
Deluxe Pack: 8990 Kč (about 320€)

Alza.cz

■ Denmark

Elgiganten
GameStop

Finland

GameStop
Gigantti

■ France

Micromania

■ Germany

GameStop
Saturn
Toys"R"Us

■ Ireland

GameStop

■ Italy

GameStop

■ Netherlands

Bart Smit
MediaMarkt

■ Norway

Elkjop
GameStop

■ Spain

MediaMarkt
GameStop

■ Sweden

The prices appear quite high here, it's probably Bergsala (the distributor) acting greedy again with way to high prices.

I have seen Premium Pack for an equivalent of over 400€! But you can surely get it for a reasonable price somewhere.

GameStop
Komplett.se
Webhallen

■ UK

Amazon.co.uk
ASDA
GAME
GameStation
PLAY.COM

[Wario64]

is it okay to post

[Rösti]

The Japanese hardware sets do not differ much from the North American or European, but there are some differences, excluding different colour encoding systems, voltages and frequencies of course. In Japan, they're, as in North America, called "Sets".

There is an exclusive for Japan however - A "Limited Edition " Monster Hunter Tri G HD Premium Set

Japanase hardware site

Basic Pack retails for ¥26,250*, Deluxe Pack retails for ¥31,500.

*MSRP

Basic Set「shiro」Contents:

• White Wii U Hardware (8GB Internal storage)
• Wii U GamePad
• Wii U GamePad Stylus
• Sensor bar
• Wii U console AC adapter
• Wii U GamePad AC adapter
• HDMI cable (1.5 m)
• Instruction manual

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Premium Set「kuro」Contents:

• Black Wii U Hardware (32GB Internal storage)
• Wii U GamePad
• Wii U GamePad Stylus
• Sensor bar
• Wii U console AC adapter
• Wii U GamePad AC adapter
• HDMI® cable (1.5 m)
• Nintendo Land video game
• A promo card which gives access to Dragon Quest X beta
• Deluxe Digital Promotion
• Wii U GamePad Stand
• Wii U GamePad Cradle
• Wii U Console Stand
• Instruction manual

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Monster Hunter Tri G HD Premium Set Contents:

Same as Deluxe Pack, but comes with Monster Hunter Tri G HD instead of Nintendo Land, and features a Pro Controller (and packaging with Monster Hunter artwork on it).

Available 8th of December

• Assassin's Creed 3
• Batman: Arkham City Armoured Edition
• FIFA 13
• Mass Effect 3: Special Edition
• Monster Hunter 3G HD
• New Super Mario Bros. U
• Ninja Gaiden 3: Razor's Edge
• Nintendo Land
• Tekken Tag Tournament 2 Wii U Edition
• Warriors Orochi 3 Hyper
• ZombiU

Available during launch window

• Call of Duty: Black Ops II
• Fist of the North Star: Ken's Rage 2
• Game & Wario (tentatively)
• Pikmin 3 (tentatively)
• Romance of the Three Kingdoms XII/Sangokushi 12
• Sports Connection
• The Family Party (Simple Series for Wii U Vol. 1)
• Wii Fit U

I haven't seen too many online retailers put up their Wii U sites yet. If you know of more than the listed, let me know:

Amazon.co.jp
AsoBitCity/Laox
Sofmap

[Rösti]

This FAQ has been created by Cheesemeister, and was originally posted here. Huge thanks for this!

I edited the layout for a bit better readability. I will also update this as much as possible once manuals start appearing online etc.



Wii U Hardware

■ Does the Wii U support HD (High Definition)?

Yes, HD is supported. Wii software is only in SD (Standard Definition). When the Wii S-terminal cable or Wii AV cable are connected, Wii U software can also be displayed in SD.

■ Is anything needed other than what's included in the hardware sets?

Depending upon the game software, the Wii Remote Plus (Wii Remote), Nunchuk, Sensor Bar, or other accessories may be required. Please see the home page for each title for details. Wii owners may continue to use their Wii Remote Plus (Wii Remote), Nunchuk, Sensor Bar, and other accessories on the Wii U. Those without a Wii can purchase the "Wii Remote Plus Add-on Pack" sold separately.

■ Can the Sensor Bar built into the Wii U GamePad be used instead of a standard Sensor Bar?

It cannot. The Sensor Bar in the GamePad is for use only in software specifically built to make use of it, of which there are none as of December 8th, 2012 (launch date in Japan).

■ What are the differences between the Premium and Basic Sets?

The amount of internal storage memory for downloadable games and the system color are different.

Premium Set: 32 GB internal storage memory, system color in black only
Basic Set: 8 GB internal storage memory, system color in white only
Some software/offers/accessories are also included only in the Premium Set. See the home page for details (JP, NA, EU).

■ How many titles can the Premium and Basic Sets store in their internal storage memory?

The size of software titles will vary, so it's difficult to give a concrete answer. Please refer to the software size in the Nintendo eShop before purchasing. If there is insufficient internal storage memory, an external USB storage device can be connected to expand upon the internal storage memory. SD cards cannot be used to expand upon the internal storage memory. Details on USB devices confirmed to work will be posted in the following days.

■ Is it possible to copy or move software between the internal storage memory and an external USB storage device?

It is possible to move, but not to copy. For details, please select Data Management from the System Settings in the Wii U menu.
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About Backwards Compatability

■ Can the Wii U play Wii or GameCube software?

Wii software, Wii Virtual Console software, and WiiWare can be played from the Wii Menu on the Wii U. GameCube software is not supported.

■ Can Wii U software be played on the Wii?

No.

■ Can WiiWare or Wii Virtual Console software be purchased and downloaded on the Wii U?

Yes. They can be purchased by accessing the Wii Shopping Channel in the Wii Menu on the Wii U.

■ Can the Wii U GamePad be used to play Wii software?

No. The Wii U GamePad functionality is not available when using the Wii Menu.

■ Can I use all the functionality of the Wii when using the Wii Menu to play Wii software?

Most Wii software can be played, but WiiConnect24, among a few other functions, cannot be used.
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Misc.

■ Can children play the Wii U? (Are there any usage advisories?)

Children can play the Wii U, but several settings must be set when first powering on the device after purchase. Among these are parental controls that must be set by a parent or guardian when children are to use the Wii U.

■ What are the Parental Settings?

Depending upon the child, ratings system-based age limits and other usage restrictions can be put in place. See below for details.

■ Can a Wii U purchased in Japan play software from abroad, and vice-versa?

No. A Wii U system purchased in one region can only play games for that market.

Wii Data Transfer

■ Can WiiWare, Wii Virtual Console software, other downloads, save data, registered Wii Points, and so on be transferred to the Wii U?

Yes. By doing a Software and Data Transfer, WiiWare, Wii Virtual console software, and other downloads will be made available through the Wii Menu on the Wii U. See the home page for details (JP).

■ Can Mii characters from the Wii or 3DS be transferred to the Wii U?

Yes. Mii characters on the 3DS can be imported directly into the Mii Studio on the Wii U via QR Code or wireless transmission. Mii characters on the Wii can be imported into the Mii Channel in the Wii Menu. After that, Mii characters can be copied from the Mii Channel using a feature in the Wii U's Mii Studio.

■ What is required to transfer from the Wii to the Wii U?

The following is required: 1 TV (having 2 is convenient), the Wii U to transfer to, the Wii to transfer from, an SD Card (512 MB and larger), and an Internet connection. Even with only 1 TV, TV input can be switched back and forth to facilitate the transfer.
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Built-in Software

About Miiverse

■ Does Miiverse support all software titles?

Miiverse supports all software titles, with a few exceptions among the built-in software.

■ Is using Miiverse required to just play the games?

No, there is no requirement to use Miiverse.

■ What kind of things can be posted?

Game screenshots, keyboard text entry up to 100 characters, and hand-drawn messages can be posted.

■ Can foreign communities be viewed?

Foreign communities can be viewed and posted to.
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About the Nintendo eShop

■ What does the Nintendo eShop on the Wii U offer?

The eShop offers game preview trailers, free demo downloads, Wii U game software download purchases, and so on. See the home page for details (JP, NA).

■ Where are downloadable software purchases stored?

Downloads can be stored either to the internal storage memory or to an external USB storage device. Saving to an SD Card is not supported.

■ What should be done when there is insufficient remaining space in the Wii U internal storage memory to download a new game?

Please increase the amount of available space by deleting unneeded data from the system's Data Management menu. Otherwise, use an external USB storage device to increase the amount of available space.

■ Can downloadable software stored on an external USB storage device be played on another Wii U system?

No. A given external USB storage device can be used with one Wii U system.

■ Can children be prevented from making download purchases?

Yes, by choosing the appropriate option in Parental Settings. See below for details.

■ Can presents be sent to other people like in the Wii Shopping Channel?

There is no present-sending feature like in the Wii Shopping Channel.

■ Can Wii Points on the Wii Shopping Channel or the remaining balance on the 3DS Nintendo eShop be used to make purchases?

No. Wii Points are only for the Wii Shopping Channel, and the remaining balance on the 3DS can be used only on the 3DS Nintendo eShop.

■ How long does it take to download purchased software?

The amount of time varies based on the size of the software and the customer's Internet connection. The progress of downloads can be checked through Download Management in the Home Button Menu.

■ Can Wii software be purchased and downloaded?

WiiWare and Wii Virtual Console software can be purchased through the Wii Shopping Channel in the Wii Menu.
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About Nintendo x Joysound Wii Karaoke U (Japan-only)

■ Can Nintendo x Joysound Wii Karaoke U be played without an Internet connection?

Nintendo x Joysound Wii Karaoke U connects to the Internet to provide service. (The song selection functionality can be tried out even offline.) A trial disc playable for 1 month offline; players can choose 50 songs to sing from a selection of 10,000. Please see the Nintendo x Joysound Wii Karaoke U page for details (JP-only).

■ What is required to play Nintendo x Joysound Wii Karaoke U?

An Internet connection and a ticket valid for a certain time period are required. A microphone makes the experience more fun.

■ What kinds of microphones are supported?

USB microphones are supported. The following microphones have been confirmed to work: the Wii U Microphone [WUP-021], the USB Microphone and Microphone DX for Karaoke Joysound Wii. Up to 2 microphones can be connected. See microphone instruction manuals for how to use them.

■ Can the Wii U GamePad microphone be used to sing?

Yes, but USB microphones (sold separately) provide better audio quality.
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About Wii U Chat

■ Who can Wii U Chat be used to talk to?

Only mutually-registered friends can use it to talk.

■ Are headsets supported?

Yes.

■ Are there any fees to do teleconferencing?

The service is free, but associated Internet service fees may apply.

■ Can 3 or more people teleconference with each other?

Up to 2 Wii U systems can connect with one another.
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About Mii Studio

■ Can Mii Parts in the Mii Studio be used on the Wii?

More parts are available than on the Wii. Parts are shared with the Mii Studio on the 3DS.

■ Can Mii characters from the Wii or 3DS be imported?

Yes. See above.
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Users

■ What are Users?

Personal save data management on the Wii U system is on a per-User basis. Before playing the Wii U, it's necessary to register a User. Up to 12 Users can be registered.

■ What is a Nintendo Network ID?

It's an ID that's required in order for a User to connect to the Internet. When creating a User that will connect to the Internet, it's necessary to set a password. By connecting to the Internet, User information is stored on a server external to the Wii U system, and all network functionality is enabled.

■ What information is required to obtain a Nintendo Network ID?

The following information is required: e-mail address, location information ("none" can be chosen), birthdate, and gender. Name, address, and credit card information are not required.

■ Can changes be made to registered User information?

Changes can be made through the User Settings menu. The Nintendo Network ID and birthdate cannot be changed.

■ Can a cell phone e-mail address be used to register for a Nintendo Network ID?

Yes. However, some cell phone e-mail services may have limitations such as character limits, so please be advised.

■ Why is an e-mail address required?

It's requiested so that account holders (or their parent or guardian) can retrieve a forgotten Nintendo Network ID password via e-mail.

■ What information is managed on a per-User basis?

The following: play history, the User's Mii, Parental Settings (excluding the Wii Menu), and game save data (some games may have save data shared by all Users). The following can be managed for network-enabled Users: friend information, Wii U Nintendo eShop balance, credit card information, purchase history, e-mail address, Nintendo Network ID, location information, birthdate, gender, and other registration information.

■ Can software downloaded by one User be played by other Users?

Yes. Purchased downloadable software is shared by all Users on the same Wii U system.

■ Can the remaining balance for individual Users be merged, divided, or transferred?

No.

■ Can Users for children be created?

Yes. To register a Nintendo Network ID for children under 13, please use a parent or guardian's e-mail address. If there are several children, the same e-mail address can be used to register each of their Nintendo Network IDs.
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About Parental Settings

The Wii U system has functionality to restrict the usage of features in Wii U software. Restrictions can be set on a per-User basis. Following are the main things that can be restricted.

Age restriction: age-inappropriate software based upon rating system information can be restricted from running. Purchases of age-inappropriate software from the Nintendo eShop are automatically blocked. To restrict Wii software, use the Wii Menu Settings.

Game software transmissions: game software communication features (chat and networked play, etc.) can be restricted.

Internet Browser usage: usage of the Internet Browser can be restricted in order to prevent the viewing of pages that may be inappropriate for children.

Purchases on the Nintendo eShop or other services: credit card usage and software purchases on the eShop and other services can be restricted.

Miiverse usage: viewing of and posting to Miiverse can be restricted in order to prevent the exchange of inappropriate content with other users.

Friend registration: friend registration can be restricted.

Video streaming: usage of video streaming services can be restricted.

Data management: the erasure and moving of Wii U software save data can be restricted. This cannot be restricted for Wii software on the Wii Menu.

Internet settings: the addition, changing, or deletion of Internet connections can be restricted.

Also, the addition of new users and the factory-resetting of the system are automatically restricted. The restriction of some features is done by connecting to the Internet. Some restrictions may change in system updates.

Also, here's something EloquentM brought to attention, it regards which games you can play on the GamePad without connection to a TV set:

So, one of the WiiUs biggest features is the ability to play a given game just on the GamePad, allowing someone else to watch TV, play another video game system, etc. There does seem to be a lot of confusion as to just which games support this feature and since some in the other threads were asking for a comprehensive thread / list of all the games that do support it, I decided to compose a list to use as a reference of all games known to have this. Unfortunately, all Wii software (disc games, WiiWare, Virtual Console) is incompatible with the feature. New Super Mario Bros. U Tekken Tag Tournament 2 Dragon Quest X Assassins Creed III Darksiders II Mass Effect 3 Epic Mickey 2 Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 Warriors Orochi 3 Hyper Scribblenauts Unlimited Batman Arkham City: Armored Edition Ninja Gaiden 3: Razors Edge Rabbids Land Skylanders Giants Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed Wii Fit U Madden 13 FIFA 13 Rayman Legends (I assume) Toki Tori 2 (downloadable) Nano Assault Neo (downloadable) Trine 2 Director's Cut (downloadable) Puddle (downloadable) Several built-in apps (Netflix, Internet, etc.)

Source: http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=499720

[RionaaM]

is it okay to post

Oh you!

[DoctorWho]

is it okay to post

I don't think so.

[Alec2DaBreen]

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lol

[Rösti]

I don't think so.

Well, it is now. But Wario wrecked the layout.

[dc89]

My body is ready...after Christmas when I may have the money.

[Sn4ke_911]

is it okay to post

[Sid]

is it okay to post

Yeah.

[BlackGhost]

I'm ready for this.
Standard definition sucks! Please dont make me go back!

[Eteric Rice]

System and Mario are paid off.

My body is ready.

[Backfoggen]

Good OT, OP.

[tnaden]

I'm so ready for next gen. BRING IT

[jonno394]

Great OT! UK here, only 16 days left!

spoiled by one

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[brandonh83]

My body is reggie.

[grimshawish]

Also great work on the OT :)

is it okay to post

I still think your the gaf version of Siri.

[chifanpoe]

I will be at Gamestop launch with my six year old daughter, she and I are very excited!

[Pineconn]

Holy eff balls, that's an amazing layout.

[The_Darkest_Red]

I wish I could partake in this exciting event but I've decided to hold off until a few more games hit that I'm interested in. I'm looking forward to impressions, though!

[CrunchinJelly]

is it okay to post

I thought not reading the OP was bannable.

[DoctorWho]

Well, it is now. But Wario wrecked the layout.

Proof, once again, that Wario ruins everything.

[Anth0ny]

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classic scumbag wario

lol

[Reallink]

Does there exist a list of the Gamestops, Best Buys, and whoever else that are doing midnight launches?

[alr1ght]

It's not the same system, it's not the same content.

I thought not reading the OP was bannable.

multi post threads are no longer allowed

[dmr87]

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Oh boy..


Fantastic OP, sucks being in Europe with a later release.

[Deefuzz]

Awesome! Now I just need to hopefully land a console at launch!

Great job with the initial posts, a whole lot of info there and it is really well laid out. Thanks!

[Kenka]

Good OP Rösti, Klasse!

[YoshiRider123]

Is the Reggie included with Batman.

[comedy bomb]

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dick move dude lol

[tci]

Great work! I'm feeling the hype now. But 2 weeks to go for me :(

[earvcunanan]

Day one deluxe with NSMBU at Best Buy

[Kerub]

Reggie scared me, lol :-)

[Phazon]

lol'd @ batman arkham city box. Great OT Rösti :)

[Twinduct]

Quick someone explain to me that premium thing for Nintendo's shop that you get with the premium pack? I need an adult!

[Galang]

Wow amazing OP!

[cloudyy]

Great OT.
Amazon.fr has Basic and Premium set at 269€ resp. 315€.
lol at sneaky Reggie hiding behind the batman cover.
Also, Wario should get a life.

[X05]

I thought not reading the OP was bannable.

And he's banned (lol), so that's that.

[Boogiepop]

Definitely ready for this. Any idea when we should start to see reviews for the launch titles? I'm considering Sonic Racing in addition to NSMBU, but I'd like to see some opinions on it first.

Oh, and have any stores any deals for the launch titles yet? I remember you could get a buy one get one 50% off at 3DS launch.

[LonelyGreyWolf]

5/5 for having Reggies face popping up from behind Itsnotthesamegame.

[CorySchmitz]

Will the Wii U Pro Controller work with Wii VC games?

[Andrex]

So I don't have a preorder but I want to get one launch day and don't mind waiting in line. What would be my best bet?

For Wii I waited overnight at some Walsmart and they opened early, but Walsmart is doing layaways now so I dunno.

[Tagg9]

Lovely OT, mate. Wii U, here I come.

[Twinduct]

And he's banned (lol), so that's that.

Good riddance! His iOS agenda is so transparent!

[Rash]

Nice thread. I'll be able to use some of the information here (as well as in other Wii U threads) if I come up with any questions while setting up and using the system on launch day.

I'm throwing a launch party and I'm really excited! We're going to play NintendoLand, NSMBU, and make new Miis for any folks who want them.

Sunday will be excellent. I have never really seen the Wii U in person other than with a passing glance at a demo kiosk. Haven't held the controller or even seen it up close. Can't wait to get it in my hands and toy around with it an the system in general. It's always so fun to experience new tech for the first time.

[Regulus Tera]

did you seriously need one entire post for a banner?

edit: oh okay, so it's not just a banner. Still seems excessive to me.

[JohnLacke]

Great OT! Looking forward to Monday (since that is likely when mine will arrive by courier).

[YoshiRider123]

Will the Wii U Pro Controller work with Wii VC games?

No.