Excitement is brewing for Wii U as the November 30th launch approaches. James Batchelor asks industry experts what they are most looking forward to about the next generation of Nintendo
WE LOVE THE GAMEPAD
“Nintendo always introduces new technology to the video games market: think of the introduction of the D-Pad with the NES, 3D platforming with Super Mario 64, portable gaming with the Game Boy, motion control with the Wii. The list goes on and on, and now we have the Wii U GamePad. I expect the controller with screen set-up to become the industry standard going forward.”
Craig McNicol, Koch Media
“The GamePad in itself is an interesting addition to the console: the touch screen in particular can help provide a very different experience to the gamer both in single-player and in multiplayer, where asymmetric gameplay comes into play. I am also very intrigued about NFC and how it will get implemented. It is another opportunity to create new forms of gameplay.”
Ombelline Wallon, Ubisoft IT WILL BREATHE NEW LIFE INTO THE GAMES MARKET
“The Wii U delivers unique gameplay, clever functionality and also innovation for many development studios out there to create something special. It will also deliver some of those great core games experiences that the hardcore audience was waiting for.”
Lee Kirton, Namco Bandai
“Nintendo is known for the innovation it brings to the gaming market, and we are very eager to see how the Wii U will affect gamers in the coming months.”
Yasutomo Watanabe, Tecmo Koei IT WILL END THE WAR OF THE LIVING ROOM
“The ability to play only on the GamePad could solve no end of living room disputes allowing for gaming and TV programming to happily co-exist.”
Jon Rooke, THQ
“The Wii being synonymous with family gaming and the Wii U now looking to attract more hardcore gamers will put added pressure on the other platform holders to compete, which is great for the consumer.”
Jon Sutherland, Gem 20 October 19th 2012
“My fiancée isn't always a huge fan of me hogging the telly with FIFA 13 all the time. So the ability to keep playing on the GamePad while she gets her fill of X Factor, Strictly Come Dancing and all that other guff sounds like a nice way to keep both parties happy. Bless you for saving my not-yet-happened marriage, Nintendo!”