Release Dates

11/19/06

12/2/07

12/8/07

12/7/06

Wii, formerly known as "Revolution," promises to forever change the way gamers play. Nintendo takes a completely different direction with its next generation system from the strategy of Microsoft and Sony. In place of high definition graphics and 7.1 channel sound, the Wii offers gamers new gameplay through a motion detecting set of controllers.

Little is known about the Wii's hardware specifications as Nintendo does not wish to compete on this level. The CPU is designed by IBM and called "Broadway" and the GPU is designed by ATI and called "Hollywood."

The video output is capable of 480p and 16:9 widescreen; however component cables are required for 480p and they are sold separately. The audio output is stereo or Dolby Pro Logic II. The Wii does not feature a hard drive but instead offers 512MB flash memory. Additionally memory can be added using SD cards. The console connects to the Internet using built-in Wi-Fi.

The Wii uses a motion sensing controller shaped like a TV remote. Many games also use a "nunchuk" controller that attaches using a cable to the "Wii-mote." The Wii-mote is detected by the console using a sensor bar that must be placed on top of a TV. The sensor bar is not wireless and attaches to the Wii by a cable. The Wii-mote requires 2 AA batteries.

Wii takes backwards compatibility to the next level by allowing players to play vintage NES, Super Nintendo, and N64 games through downloads on its Virtual Console. The Wii also accepts Gamecube discs, controllers, and memory cards. Nintendo has stated that online play of Wii games will be offered for free; however, this service is not available at launch.