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{{current game}}
{{Infobox CVG system
|title = Wii
|logo = ]
|image = ] 2006 version of console]]
|manufacturer = ]
|type = ]
|generation = ]
|lifespan = <small><sup>''']'''</sup></small> <small><sup>''']'''</sup></small> ], ]<br/><small><sup>''']'''</sup></small> ], ]<br/><small><sup>''']'''</sup></small> <small><sup>''']'''</sup></small> ], ]<br/><small><sup>''']'''</sup></small> ], ] <br/><small><sup>''']'''</sup></small> ], ]
|CPU = <!-- 729 MHz (speed unconfirmed) this is still speculation at the moment--> ] ]-based<ref name="hard_inf">{{cite web|url=http://wii.nintendo.com/hardware.html|title=Wii Hardware Information|publisher=Nintendo|accessdate=2006-05-09}}</ref> ]
|GPU = <!-- http://www.popsci.com/popsci/whatsnew/2526081bfbcfe010vgnvcm1000004eecbccdrcrd/14.html //--> ] ]
|media = 12 cm Wii ]<br />8 cm ]<br />
|storage = Internal ]<br />] Memory Card<br />]
|connectivity = ]<br />]<br />] x2<br />] Adapter (via USB)
|online service = ]<br />]<br />]<br />]<br /><!--As quoted by Iwata, "Using a design called WiiConnect24, the console automatically enters standby mode without the running, but still operating key functions." This does not at all say that the online service itself is WiiConnect24.-->
|top game =
|compatibility =<!-- HARDWARE compatibility only. Do not list virtual console systems as "compatible", emulation is not the same thing as actual compatibility. --> ]
|predecessor = ]
|successor =
}}

'''Wii''' (pronounced as the pronoun "]", ]: {{IPA|/wiː/}}) is ]'s ] ]. Its ] was '''Revolution'''. It is the successor to the ] and competes against ]'s ] and ]'s ].

A distinguishing feature of the Wii console is its wireless ], the ]<!--SEE DISCUSSION ON ALTERNATE NAMES-->, which may be used as a handheld pointing device and can ] in ]. The console also notably features ], which enables it to receive messages and updates over the ] while consuming very little electrical power.

Nintendo first mentioned the console in the ] ] press conference and later unveiled the system at the ] E3. ] revealed a prototype of the controller at the September 2005 ].<ref name="speech">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/6133389.html|title=TGS 2005: Iwata speaks|accessdate=2006-09-24|last=Sinclair|first=Brendan|coauthors=Torres, Ricardo}}</ref> At E3 2006, the Wii console won the ] for Best of Show and Best Hardware.<ref name="E3 Awards">{{cite web |url=http://www.gamecriticsawards.com/win.html |title=2006 Winners |accessdate=2006-08-13 |work=Game Critics Awards}}</ref> The console was released on ] ] in ] and ]. It will be released on ] ] in ]; ] ] in ], ] and ]; ] ] in ]; and ] ] in ].

==Launch==
===Release date and price===
On ], ] and ], ], Nintendo announced release information for ], ] and ], ], and ], including dates and prices.

At a ], ] policy briefing, Nintendo revealed that it intends to release 6 million console units and 17 million software units during the fiscal year ending ], ], and 4 million or more console units by the end of the 2006 calendar year.<ref name="policy brief">{{cite web | url=http://www.nintendo.co.jp/kessan/060607qa_e/index.html| title=Nintendo Co., Ltd. Corporate Management Policy Briefing | accessdate=2006-11-11 | publisher=Nintendo}}</ref> On ], ], it was announced that the majority of the 2006 shipments will be allotted to the Americas.<ref name="shreveport times">{{cite web | title=Nintendo to Sell Wii Console in November | publisher=Associated Press | work=Gadget Guru | url=http://ndtv.com/charts/gadgetguru/frmAPGadgetNewsDetails.asp?q_id=266 | accessdate=2006-10-29}}</ref>

The ] launch of the Wii console has been moved to ], ], because ], ] is the celebration of the ] and thus all shops will be closed.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.video-game-consoles.info/nintendo-wii-release-dates.php | title=Nintendo Wii Release Dates | publisher=Video-Game-Consoles | accessdate=2006-10-29}}</ref> The ] and ] releases have been moved to ], ].<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.gamestar.it/showPage.php?template=News&id=8615&argomento=Wii|The | title=Wii arriva in anticipo solo in Italia, con una "sorpresa" | language=Italian | publisher=GameStar | accessdate=2006-11-04}}</ref>

Nintendo of Canada vice president and general manager Ron Bertram stated that the company expects a million consoles for North America at launch, as reported by ] on ], ].<ref name="ign pickup">{{cite web | author= | date=2006-09-25 | title=One Million Launch Wiis for North America | publisher=IGN | url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/735/735046p1.html | accessdate=2006-09-30}}</ref> The next day, Nintendo branded the information as a "misstatement about the number of Wii consoles that will be available in the Americas during the launch rollout," and reiterated earlier statements of expected sales of 4 million consoles worldwide by the end of 2006 with the largest allotment available in the Americas. The company affirmed that they "are working to ensure a plentiful supply and a consistent flow."<ref name="Nintendo Sets the Record Straight">{{cite news|first=Mark|last=Bozon|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/735/735597p1.html|title=Nintendo Sets the Record Straight|date=2006-09-26|publisher=IGN}}</ref>{{wikinews|The Wii, Nintendo's new console, launches in North America}}

Despite the price point of US$60 quoted for many seventh generation games,<ref name="prices nextgen">{{cite news|first=John|last=Gaudiosi|url=http://www.next-gen.biz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=970&Itemid=2|title=Game Pricing|date=2006-09-09|publisher=Next Generation}}</ref> Satoru Iwata said that it is unlikely that ] games would cost more than US$50.<ref name="GamePrice">{{cite news|first=Chris|last=Morris|url=http://money.cnn.com/2006/03/29/commentary/game_over/column_gaming/ |title=Nintendo president vows cheap games|Date=2006-03-29|publisher=CNNMoney}}</ref>

The launch Wii package includes the console, a stand to allow the console to be placed vertically, a circular clear stabilizer for the main stand,<ref name="Wii box contents">{{cite web|last=Bramwell|first=Tom|date=], ]|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=67667|title=Wii European bundle contents|publisher=Eurogamer|accessdate=November 18|accessyear=2006}}</ref> one Wii Remote, one ] attachment, one Sensor Bar, a removable stand for the sensor bar, one external mains power adapter, ] (] and other type of cables will be available separately), and (in all regions excluding Japan) a copy of '']''.
{{-}}
{|class="wikitable"
|+'''Release date and ] by region'''*
|-
!rowspan="2"|Region
!colspan="2"|Expected pricing at release
!rowspan="2"|Release <br>date
!colspan="3"|Accessories
|-
!Release Price
!Approx. ] Equivalent
!Wii Remote
!Nunchuk
!]
|-
| align="left" | {{flagicon|USA}} ]
|]249.99<ref>Nintendo (September 14, 2006) , ''nintendo.com''</ref><!-- Excludes any sales tax -->
|$249.99
|rowspan="7"|] ]
|$39.99
|$19.99
|$19.99
|-
| align="left" | {{flagicon|Canada}} ]
|]279.95<ref>CNW Group (September 17, 2006) , ''newswire.ca''</ref><!-- Excludes GST -->
|$245
|C$44.99
|C$24.99
|C$24.99
|-
| align="left" | {{flagicon|Mexico}} ]
|]$4,499<ref>Sanborns</ref><!-- Includes 15% IVA -->
|$420 ($355†)
|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
|-
| align="left" | {{flagicon|Colombia}} ]
|]$1,100,000{{fact}}<!-- Includes 16% IVA -->
|$460 ($395†)
|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
|-
| align="left" | {{flagicon|Peru}} ]
|]S/.1,499{{fact}}<!-- Includes 19% IGV -->
|$464 ($390†)
|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
|-
| align="left" | {{flagicon|Chile}} ]
|]$259,990 <ref> Falabella </ref> <!-- Includes 19% IVA -->
|$495 ($416†)
|CLP$34,990
|CLP$15,990
|CLP$15,990
|-
| align="left" | {{flagicon|Brazil}} ]
|]2,399<ref name="NintendoLife.com">NintendoLife.com (November 7, 2006) , ''nintendolife.com''</ref>
|$1,124
|R$299.00
|R$199.00
|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
|-
| align="left" | {{flagicon|Japan}} ]
|]25,000<ref>Sanders, Kathleen (September 13, 2006) , ''ign.com''</ref><!-- Includes 5% sales tax -->
|$215* ($205†)
|] ]
|¥3,800
|¥1,800
|¥1,800
|-
| align="left" | {{flagicon|Australia}} ]
|]$399.95<ref>Nintendo (September 15, 2006) , ''planetgamecube.com''</ref><!-- Includes 10% GST -->
|$300 ($275†)
|rowspan="4"|] ]
|AU$69.95
|AU$29.95
|AU$29.95
|-
| align="left" | {{flagicon|New Zealand}} ]
|]$499.90<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gpstore.co.nz/News/Archive/3665.html|title=Nintendo Wii release information announced!|author=Nintendo Australia|publisher=Gameplanet Store NZ|date=], ]|accessdate=2006-09-18}}</ref><!-- Includes 12.5% GST -->
|$330 ($295†)
|NZ$99.95
|NZ$49.95
|NZ$49.95
|-
| align="left" | {{flagicon|Italy}} ]
|]259<ref name="Nintendo Wii">Nintendo (4 November, 2006) , ''wii.com''</ref>
|$332
|€39.99
|€19.99
|€19.99
|-
| align="left" | {{flagicon|Switzerland}} ]
|] 399‡{{fact}}<!-- Includes 7.6% VAT -->
|$320 ($295†)
|SFr. 69.90
|SFr. 34.90
|SFr. 34.90
|-
| align="left" | {{flagicon|Europe}} ]
|]249‡<ref name="Europe Gets Wii Last">Planet GameCube (September 15, 2006) , ''planetgamecube.com''</ref><!-- Includes average of 20% VAT -->
|$319 ($256†)
|rowspan="5"|] ]
|€39.99
|€19.99
|€19.99
|-
| align="left" | {{flagicon|United Kingdom}} ]
|]179‡<ref name="Europe Gets Wii Last" /><!-- Includes 17.5% VAT -->
|$340 ($280†)
|£29.99
|£14.99
|£14.99
|-
| align="left" | {{flagicon|Denmark}} ]
|] 2200<!-- Includes 25% VAT -->{{fact}}
|<nowiki>$368 ($303†)</nowiki>
|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
|-
| align="left" | {{flagicon|Norway}} ]
|] 2395 {{fact}}
|<nowiki>$376</nowiki>
|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
|-
| align="left" | {{flagicon|Sweden}} ]
|] 2659‡<!-- Includes 25% VAT -->{{fact}}
|<nowiki>$369 ($295†)</nowiki>
|479 kr
|299 kr
|299 kr
|-
| align="left" | {{flagicon|Finland}} ]
|]269.90<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nintendo.fi/?file=365|title=Nintendo Suomi - Wii:n suositushinnaksi 269,90 euroa!|author=Nintendo Finland|publisher=Nintendo|date=], ]|accessdate=2006-11-01}}</ref>
|<nowiki>$344.69</nowiki>
|], ]
|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
|-
| align="left" | {{flagicon|Spain}} ]
|]249‡<ref name="Spain Wii.com">Nintendo.com (November 4, 2006) , ''wii.com''</ref>
|$315 ($265†)
|], ]
|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
|-
|-http://en.wikipedia.org/skins-1.5/common/images/button_nowiki.png
|}
<nowiki>*</nowiki> ''] comes packaged with the console in all regions excluding Japan.

† USD equivalent with local ], ] or ] removed for ease of comparison with territories that do not include taxes in consumer prices

‡ Retail price as estimated by, rather than suggested by, Nintendo<ref name="Europe launch">{{cite web | date=], ] | url=http://www.nintendo-europe.com/NOE/en/GB/news/article.do?elementId=hekfGZ16IZl9QD4HthPCa1jOA-0Dadvo | title=Wii European launch details announced | publisher=Nintendo | language=English | accessdate=2006-11-11}}</ref>

===Marketing expansion===
From ] ], Nintendo ran a series of television advertisements directed by Academy Award winner ] as well as Internet ads under the slogans ''"Wii would like to play"'' and ''"Experience a new way to play''". These ads have a total budget of over US$200 million. The productions are Nintendo's first broad-based advertising strategy and include a two-minute 'documentary' showing grandparents and parents enjoying the Wii console with their children. 80% of advertising targets adults in an attempt to expand the market beyond Nintendo's traditional audience.<ref>joystiq.com (Novenber 12, 2006)</ref>

===Launch titles===
On ], ], it was confirmed that 21 titles would be available on launch day in ] and ] with another 13 games being released before the end of 2006.<ref name="The Twenty Wii Launch Games">{{cite web|last=Rodriguez|first=Steven|authorlink=|coauthors=|date=], ]|year=|month=|url=http://www.planetgamecube.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=12402|title=The Twenty Wii Launch Games revealed|format=|work=|pages=|publisher=Planet GameCube|language=English|accessdate=|accessyear=|curly=}}</ref> ''Wii Sports'' will be included with the console bundle at launch in all regions excluding ].

{| class="wikitable"
!Game Title
!Region(s)<ref name="Euro Wii Launch">{{cite web|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/743/743042p1.html|title=Euro Wii Launch Games Finalised|publisher=]|date=], ]|accessdate=2006-11-01}}</ref><ref name="Australia Wii Launch">{{cite web|url=http://www.nintendo.co.nz/nintendo/news/index.php|title=nintendo.co.nz - News From Nintendo|Publisher=]|date=], ]|accessdate=2006-11-02}}<br>{{cite web|url=http://www.nintendo.com.au/nintendo/news/index.php|title=nintendo.com.au - News From Nintendo|Publisher=]|date=], ]|accessdate=2006-11-02}}</ref>
!
!Game Title
!Region(s)<ref name="Euro Wii Launch" /><ref name="Australia Wii Launch" />
|-
|'']
|<small><sup>''']''' ''']''' ''']'''</sup></small> <ref name=THQ>{{cite web|url=http://investor.thq.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=96376&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=916763&highlight=|title=THQ confirms four launch titles for Nintendo's Wii home video game console|publisher=]|date=], ]|accessdate=2006-10-16}}</ref>
!
|'']''
|<small><sup>''']'''</sup></small> <ref name=THQ />
|-
|'']''
|<small><sup>''']''' ''']''' ''']''' ''']'''</sup></small>
!
|'']''
|<small><sup>''']''' ''']''' ''']''' ''']'''</sup></small> <ref name=THQ />
|-
|'']''
|<small><sup>''']''' ''']''' ''']'''</sup></small>
!
|'']''
|<small><sup>''']'''</sup></small> <ref name="Elebits Update">{{cite web|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/744/744832p1.html|title=Elebits Update|publisher=]|date=], ]|accessdate=2006-11-08}}</ref>
|-
|'']''
|<small><sup>''']'''</sup></small> <ref name="Ennichi no Tatsujin Update">{{cite web|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/740/740703p1.html|title=Ennichi no Tatsujin Update|publisher=]|date=], ]|accessdate=2006-10-20}}</ref>
!
|'']''
|<small><sup>''']''' ''']'''</sup></small>
|-
|'']''
|<small><sup>''']''' ''']'''</sup></small> <ref name="Far Cry: Vengeance Update">{{cite web|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/744/744521p1.html|title=Far Cry: Vengeance Update|publisher=]|date=], ]|accessdate=2006-11-07}}</ref>
!
|'']''
|<small><sup>''']''' ''']'''</sup></small>
|-
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!
|'']''
|<small><sup>''']''' ''']''' ''']''' ''']'''</sup></small>
|-
|'']''
|<small><sup>''']''' ''']''' ''']'''</sup></small> <ref>{{cite web | url= http://news.punchjump.com/article.php?id=3357 | title=Happy Feet drops to Wii, PS2, DS, GCN, GBA | accessdate=2006-11-14}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.gamepro.com/nintendo/wii/30477/info.shtml | publisher=IDG | work=GamePro | title=Happy Feet: Wii | accessdate=2006-10-20}}</ref>
!
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|<small><sup>''']'''</sup></small>
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==Name==
<!--DO NOT ADD a reference to urine to this article. If you think it needs to be added, please discuss it on the talk page.-->
{{Wikinews|Nintendo Revolution name revealed}}
The console was known by the codename of "Revolution" until immediately prior to ] 2006.<ref name="revolution renamed to wii">{{cite web | url=http://www.consolewatcher.com/2006/05/nintedo-revolution-renamed-to-nintendo-wii/ | publisher=Console Watcher| work=Console Watcher| title=Nintendo Revolution Renamed To Nintendo Wii | accessdate=2006-11-03}}</ref> Nintendo spells "Wii" with two "i"s to imply an image of players gathering together, as well as to represent the console's controllers. Nintendo has given many reasons for its choice of name since its announcement; however, the most well known is:

{{cquote|Wii sounds like 'we', which emphasizes that the console is for everyone. Wii can easily be remembered by people around the world, no matter what language they speak. No confusion. No need to abbreviate. Just Wii.<ref name="introducing_wii">{{cite web | url=http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=9075 | publisher=CMP | work=Gamasutra | title=Breaking: Nintendo Announces New Revolution Name - 'Wii' | accessdate=2006-09-16}}</ref>}}

According to the Nintendo Style Guide: A Guide to the Proper Usage of Some of Nintendo's Products:
{{cquote|It is simply Wii, not Nintendo Wii. It is pronounced "we", indicating its all-inclusive nature. The name works best at the beginning of declarative statements. For clarity, it is best to avoid passive verbs and prepositions.}}

This means it will be the first home console Nintendo has marketed outside of Japan without the company name featured prominently in its trademark.

Many members of the press, online communities, and game developers<ref name="Gamasutra dev interview">{{cite news|url = http://gamasutra.com/features/20060501/sheffield_01.shtml | title= Wii Reactions: Developers Comment}}</ref> initially reacted negatively to the name change. Some "wish Nintendo had stuck with 'Revolution',"<ref name="CNN Criticism">{{cite news|url = http://money.cnn.com/2006/04/27/commentary/game_over/nintendo/index.htm | title= Nintendo drops Revolution, renames next gen console Wii}}</ref> pointed out phonetic similarities to the French word ''oui'' and mostly negative words in English,<ref name="Gamasutra dev interview"/> or expressed "fear that the name would convey a continued sense of 'kidiness' to the console."<ref name="Forbes Criticism">{{cite news| url = http://www.forbes.com/facesinthenews/2006/04/28/nintendo-wii-console-cx_po_0428autofacescan08.html | title= Iwata's Nintendo Lampooned for 'Wii'}}</ref> ] acknowledged the initial reaction and further explained the change:

{{cquote|Revolution as a name is not ideal; it's long, and in some cultures, it's hard to pronounce. So we wanted something that was short, to the point, easy to pronounce, and distinctive. That's how 'Wii,' as a console name, was created.<ref>Michael Donahoe, Shane Bettenhausen {{cite news| title = War of the Words | pages = 25 | publisher = ] | date = July 2006 | url = <!--add web archive if available--> | accessdate = 2006-11-18}}</ref>}}

Nintendo defends its choice of "Wii" over "Revolution" and suggests to that those who dislike the name "live with it, sleep with it, eat with it, move along with it."<ref name="IGN Kaplan Interview">{{cite news|url = http://wii.ign.com/articles/703/703593p1.html | title= Nintendo Talks to IGN about Wii}}</ref>

==Hardware==
]

The Wii console is Nintendo's smallest home unit yet; measuring 44 mm wide, 157 mm tall, and 215.4 mm deep in the vertical orientation without the included stand (which itself measures 55.4 mm wide, 44 mm tall, and 225.6 mm deep).<ref name="Japan Wii">{{cite web | url=http://www.nintendo.co.jp/wii/console/index.html | title=Wii | publisher=Nintendo | language=Japanese|accessdate=2006-11-11}}</ref> It is approximately the size of three standard ] cases stacked together (approx. 4.5 cm x 15 cm x 20 cm). The console can be stood either horizontally or vertically.<ref name="hard_inf"/>
The front of the console features a slot-loading media drive illuminated by a blue light and accepts both 12cm optical discs for Wii software and ] from Nintendo's prior console, the GameCube. When a disc is inserted, the light illuminating the disc port turns off. When there is no disc the light turns on, allowing the player to load discs in the dark. The ability to load differently sized discs is uncommon in slot-loading media drives, which typically only accept discs of a single size. Two ] ports (at the rear) and one ] slot (behind a flap cover at the front of the console) are provided. A software update first needs to be downloaded from Nintendo to enable save/write functionality for SD cards.

Nintendo has shown the console and the Wii Remote in various colors, including white, black, silver, lime green, and red.<ref name="Rev colors console">{{cite web |url=http://media.revolutionreport.com/image/revofficial%204.jpg |publisher=Revolution Report |title=Wii Colors |accessdate=2006-07-15}}</ref><ref name="Rev colors control">{{cite web | url=http://news.com.com/i/ne/p/2005/0916nintendopic4_500x375.jpg | title=Wii Remote Colors | publisher=news.com | accessdate=2006-07-15}}</ref> The console will initially be available only in white<ref name="Only In White">{{cite web | url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/6157575.html | title=Wii cuts up the Big Bapple | publisher=gamespot.com | accessdate=2006-10-31}}</ref>. At ] 2006, the Wii Remote was shown in light blue.<ref name="Sky blue at E3 2006">{{cite web | url=http://www.nintendojo.com/editorials/view_item.php?1147764622 | title=E3 2006 Wrap Up | publisher=nintendojo.com | accessdate=2006-11-06}}</ref> Numerous minor changes were made to the design between its original unveiling and launch, mostly in the Nintendo branding used and button placements.

A Nintendo spokesperson confirmed that Nintendo plans to release a version of the console with ] playback capabilities in Japan. The spokesperson also stated that releases of the DVD-Video capable version in other territories are not currently planned.<ref name="DVD Wii">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamesindustry.biz/content_page.php?aid=20729 |title=Japan to get Wii with DVD player |accessdate=2006-10-31 |accessmonthday= |accessyear= |author= |last=Gibson |first=Ellie |authorlink= |coauthors= |date=], ] |year= |month= |format= |work=] |publisher=Eurogamer Network Ltd. |pages= |language= |archiveurl= |archivedate=}}</ref> On ] ], digital media company ] issued a press release stating that Nintendo has chosen their CinePlayer CE DVD Navigator ] to provide DVD-Video functionality for a future version of the Wii console for release in the latter half of 2007.<ref name="Sonic Solutions press release">{{cite press release |url=http://www.sonic.com/about/press/news/2006/11/nintendo.aspx |title=Nintendo Selects Sonic to Enable DVD Functionality in Future Version of Wii Console|accessdate=2006-11-13 |date=November 8, 2006 |publisher=Sonic Solutions }}</ref> Nintendo of America confirmed to GameDaily BIZ on ] ] that the DVD-Video enabled Wii would be coming to North America at a higher price point than the standard Wii. Even though software will be used to enable DVD-Video functionality, it "requires more than a firmware upgrade" and could not be implemented through the WiiConnect24 network.<ref name="GameDaily BIZ: Confirmed: Nintendo to Release DVD-Enabled Wii in 2007">{{cite web|url=http://biz.gamedaily.com/industry/feature/?id=14430 |title=GameDaily BIZ: Confirmed: Nintendo to Release DVD-Enabled Wii in 2007 |accessdate=2006-11-14 |date=November 13, 2006}}</ref>

===Wii Remote===
]
{{main|Wii Remote}}
The Wii Remote <!--SEE DISCUSSION ON ALTERNATE NAMES-->is a one-handed controller that uses a combination of ] and ] detection (in conjunction with the sensor bar) to sense its position in 3D space. This allows users to control the game using physical gestures as well as traditional button presses. The controller connects to the Wii console using ], and features force feedback, 4KB non-volatile memory<ref name="IGN FAQs seven">{{cite web| last=Casamassina | first=Matt | url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/733/733464p7.html | title=IGN's Nintendo Wii FAQ | publisher=]|accessdate=2006-11-11}}</ref> and an internal speaker. The controller can connect to other devices through a proprietary port at the base of the controller. Perhaps the most important of these is the Nunchuk unit, which features an ] and a traditional ] with two trigger buttons.

===Sensor bar===
The sensor bar comes with the Wii console and can be placed anywhere near the display screen parallel to the screen's horizontal edge.<ref name=iwata_asks>{{cite web| url=http://wii.nintendo.com/iwata_asks_vol2_p3.jsp| title=Iwata Asks, Wii Remote, Towards a New Standard|publisher=Nintendo|accessdate=2006-11-17}}</ref> Nintendo's developers went through several versions of the sensor bar<ref name=iwata_asks>{{cite web| url=http://wii.nintendo.com/iwata_asks_vol2_p3.jsp| title=Iwata Asks, Wii Remote, Towards a New Standard|publisher=Nintendo|accessdate=2006-11-17}}</ref>. The final release version of the bar is approximately 20cm long<ref name="IGN secrets">{{cite web|last=Casamassina|first=Matt|authorlink=Matt Casamassina|date=]|year=|month=|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/718/718946p1.html|title=Wii Controllers: Unlocking the Secrets|format=|work=IGN Wii|pages=|publisher=IGN|language=|accessdate=2006-11-11|accessyear=|curly=}}</ref> and comes with its own stand<ref name="IGN secrets">{{cite web|author=IGN|date=]|year=|month=|url=http://uk.wii.ign.com/launchguide/hardware1.html|title=Wii: The Total Story|format=|work=IGN Wii|pages=|publisher=IGN|language=English|accessdate=2006-11-11|accessyear=|curly=}}</ref> for positioning in front of the TV. The use of the sensor bar allows the Wii Remote to be used as an accurate pointing device up to 5 meters. Concerns about the sensor bar being adversely affected by halogen lights and sunlight were raised after demo units failed to function optimally when placed outside. Nintendo confirmed that the sensitivity of the Wii sensor bar can be influenced by extreme lighting.<ref name=blompo_wii_news>{{cite web| url=http://www.blompo.com/product.php?product=622&articleview=N| title=Wii News Articles|publisher=Blompo|accessdate=2006-11-04}}</ref> However, this issue is not likely to come up in most homes.

===Technical specifications===
Nintendo itself has released few technical specifics regarding the Wii console, but most key facts have leaked to the press. Known details include:<ref name="Wii: The Total Story">{{cite web|url=http://wii.ign.com/launchguide/hardware1.html |title=Wii: The Total Story |accessdate=2006-11-20|publisher=]}}</ref><ref name="USAToday Preview">{{cite web|url=http://www.usatoday.com/tech/gaming/2006-08-14-nintendo-qa_x.htm |title=Nintendo hopes Wii spells wiinner |accessdate=2006-11-20 |accessmonthday= |accessyear= |author=Kevin P. Casey |last=|first= |authorlink= |coauthors= |date=], ] |year= |month= |format= |work= |publisher=] |pages= |language= |archiveurl= |archivedate=}}</ref><ref name="hard_inf" /><ref name=ign_wii_faq>{{cite web| url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/733/733464p1.html| title=IGN's Wii FAQ|publisher=IGN|accessdate=2006-09-22}}</ref>
{{col-begin}}
{{col-2}}
'''Processors:'''
*]: ] based ] processor, clocked at 729 ],<ref name="Wii: The Total Story" /><ref name="USAToday Preview" /> made with a ] ] CMOS process<ref name="IGN secrets"/>

*]: ] "Hollywood" GPU, clocked at 243 Mhz<ref name="Wii: The Total Story" /><ref name="USAToday Preview" /> made with a 90 nm CMOS process<ref name="hard_japan">{{ja icon}}{{cite web| url=http://www.nintendo.co.jp/n10/e3_2006/wii/index.html| title=Wiiの概要 (Wii本体)| publisher=Nintendo |accessdate=2006-05-22}}</ref>

'''Memory:'''
*88 ]<ref name="Wii: The Total Story" /><ref name="USAToday Preview" /> main memory (24 MB "internal" ],<ref name="PR MoSys">{{cite press release|publisher=MoSys, Inc.|date=], ]|title=MoSys' 1T-SRAM(R) Embedded Memory Technology Enables Nintendo's Next Leap in Video Games; High Performance, High Density 1T-SRAM Powers Upcoming Wii Home Game Console|url=http://ir.mosysinc.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=123322&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=873477|accessdate=2006-06-19}}</ref> 64 MB "external" ] RAM)<ref name="GDDR3 in Wii. Samsung part # lookup">{{cite web| url=http://www.samsung.com/Products/Semiconductor/GraphicsMemory/GDDR3SDRAM/512Mbit/K4J52324QC/K4J52324QC.htm| title=Samsung GDDR3| publisher=Samsung |accessdate=2006-05-22}}</ref>
* 3 MB GPU ]<ref name="Wii: The Total Story" />
'''Ports and peripheral capabilities:'''
*Up to four Wii Remote controllers (connected wirelessly via Bluetooth).
*One SD memory card slot.
*Two USB 2.0 ports.
*One Sensor Bar port.
*Four Nintendo GameCube controller ports.
*Two Nintendo GameCube memory card ports.
*Mitsumi DMW-W004 WiFi 802.11b/g wireless module
*Compatible with optional USB 2.0 to ] LAN adaptor.
'''Built-in content ratings systems:'''
*],{{citation needed}} ], ]
{{col-2}}
'''Storage:'''
]
*512 MB built-in ].
*Expansion available via SD card memory, 2 GB maximum supported capacity.
*GameCube Memory Cards (for saving GCN games only).
*Slot-loading disc drive compatible with:
**8 cm GameCube optical disc.
**12 cm Wii optical disc.
*] by Macronix.<ref name="Macronix">{{cite web|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/719/719299p1.html |title=Macronix Supplies Wii |accessdate=2006-07-18 |accessmonthday= |accessyear= |author=Matt Casamassina |last=Casamassina |first=Matt |authorlink=Matt Casamassina |coauthors= |date=], ]|publisher=]}}</ref>
'''Video:'''
*Up to ]<ref name="480 anamorphic">consolewatcher.com </ref>(NTSC) or ] (]/]), will work with any TV or projector.
*] (including ]), ] ],<ref></ref> ], or ] output.
*] ].<ref name="480 anamorphic" />
'''Audio:'''
]
*Main: Stereo - ]-capable.<ref name="Dolby Pro Logic II">{{cite press release |title=Dolby Technology to Power the Sound of the Wii Console |publisher=Dolby Laboratories |date=2006-09-21 |url=http://investor.dolby.com/ReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=211978 |accessdate=2006-09-23 }}</ref>
*Controller: Built-in speaker.
{{col-end}}

===Retail packaging===

The following are the contents of the Wii retail package.<ref name="Wii box contents" /> There is no difference between the territories, except for the differing languages of the manuals and the exclusion of ''Wii Sports'' in Japan.

{|
|valign="top"|
*Wii video game console
*Wii console manuals
*]
*Nunchuk attachment
|width="50"|&nbsp;
|valign="top"|
*AA batteries (two) for Wii Remote
*Wii stand
*Wii stand plate
*A/C Adapter
|width="50"|&nbsp;
|valign="top"|
*Set of composite audio/video cables
*Wii sensor bar
*Sensor bar stand
*Copy of ''Wii Sports''<ref name="Wii box contents" />
|}

==Features==

===Wii Channels===
]
]

{{main|Wii Channels}}
The ] interface for the console is designed around the concept of television channels, with a Wii Menu used to access them. Separate channels are graphically displayed in a grid, and are navigated using the pointer capability of the Wii Remote. There are eight primary channels: <!--BOLDING CHANNELS IS NOT NEEDED-->the Disc Channel, Mii Channel, News Channel, Forecast Channel, Photo Channel, Wii Shop Channel, Internet Channel and ] Channel(s).

== Message Board ==
]

Allows users to leave messages for other family members on a calendar-based message board. Users can also use WiiConnect24 to send messages to people outside your home as well. also, all users can trade photos and text messages with cell phone users. The service also allows all users for incoming game-related information. Games can constantly be updated.


===Backward compatibility===
<!--- Wii Download Games Should Not Be Mixed With Launch Titles --->
The Wii console is ] with all GameCube software and most peripherals. This backwards compatibility is achieved with the help of the slot-loading drive being able to accept GameCube discs, and a set of four GameCube controller ports and two Memory Card slots, concealed by flip-open panels.<ref name="hard_inf" /> A GameCube controller is required to play GameCube games, the Classic Controller will not function in this regard. Nintendo has stated that the Wii console is not compatible with the GameCube ], ], ], AV cable, or AC adaptor.

===Nintendo DS connectivity===
The Wii console supports wireless connectivity with the ]. ] said Nintendo was still working out when features using this connectivity would be available, but that it would be soon after the launch of the system, due to the popularity of the Nintendo DS.{{fact}} At Nintendo's corporate policy meeting in June 2006, Satoru Iwata explained that the DS uses its wireless connectivity to communicate with Wii and that no further accessories will be needed.

The connectivity will allow the player to use functions like the Nintendo DS's microphone and ] as inputs for Wii games. The first example Nintendo has given of a game using Nintendo DS-Wii connectivity is that of '']''. Players with either ] will be able to play battles using their Diamond or Pearl Pokémon on Wii with the Nintendo DS as a controller.<ref name="connectivity returns">{{cite web|last=Gantayat|first=Anoop|authorlink=|coauthors=|date=], ]|year=|month=|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/711/711657p1.html|title=Connectivity Returns|format=|work=|pages=|publisher=IGN|language=|accessdate=2006-06-07|accessyear=|curly=}}</ref>

It has also been confirmed that the Nintendo DS will be able to play game demos downloaded from the Wii console which they would receive from Nintendo, similar to a ].<ref name="Iwata Tech-On 3">{{cite web|author=Naoki Asami|authorlink=|coauthors=ITpro Publisher; Hiroki Yomogita, Silicon Valley|date=]|year=|month=|url=http://techon.nikkeibp.co.jp/english/NEWS_EN/20060525/117498/?P=3|title=Regaining what we have lost: Nintendo CEO Iwata's Ambitions for the "Wii"|format=|work=Tech-On!|pages=3|publisher=Nikkei Business Publications|language=|accessdate=2006-06-09|accessyear=|curly=}}</ref> The console will also be able to expand Nintendo DS games.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nintendospin.com/news/general/1603/news-from-nintendos-management-meeting.html|title=News From Nintendo's Management Meeting|publisher=NintendoSpin.com|date=]|accessdate=2006-08-07}}</ref>

===Parental controls===
The console features ], prohibiting younger users from playing games with content considered unsuitable for their age level. When a disc is inserted, it reads the content rating encoded on the game discs; if this rating is greater than the system's set age level the game will not load without a correct override password. However, the parental controls setting does not affect GameCube games.

European units will utilize the ] rating system,<ref name="par_pegi">{{cite news|url=http://planetgamecube.com/news.cfm?action=item&id=6665 | title=Revolution To Feature Parental Controls|publisher=Planet GameCube|date=2005-11-16}}</ref> whereas North American units will use the ] rating system.<ref name="par_esrb">{{cite press release|url=http://www.nintendo.com/newsarticle?articleid=z5UnNGZpQKWULzG0z8R501PA5IHoNPr2|title=Nintendo Announces Play Control System For Next Hardware|publisher=Nintendo of America|date=]}}</ref> While Nintendo has stated that parental control will be included in all Wii consoles worldwide, it has not yet clarified whether that means the console will support the native rating systems of other territories, such as that of ] in ], the ] in ], the ] in the ] (games in the UK carry a PEGI rating, but may be submitted for BBFC rating if they include certain content or at the publisher's discretion), or the ] in ].

===Online connectivity===
{{main|Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection|WiiConnect24|Wii Browser}}
The Wii console is able to connect to the Internet through its built-in ] Wi-Fi and through a USB-to-Ethernet adaptor, with both methods allowing players to access the established Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service.<ref name="hard_inf" /> Nintendo has stated that the console will implement standard Wi-Fi protocols. Wireless encryption by ], ] and ] appear to be supported.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/30/ign-previews-wiis-inteface-and-menu-system/ |title=IGN previews Wii's interface menu system (video, 7:24 mark) |accessdate=2006-11-08 |date=2006-10-30 |publisher=]}}</ref> Just as for the Nintendo DS, Nintendo originally stated that they will not charge fees for playing via the service<ref name="USA Today">{{cite web|url=http://www.usatoday.com/tech/gaming/2006-08-14-nintendo-qa_x.htm |title=Nintendo hopes Wii spells wiinner |accessdate=2006-08-16 |accessmonthday= |accessyear= |author= |last= |first= |authorlink= |coauthors= |date=] |year= |month= |format= |work=USATODAY.com |publisher=] |pages= |language= |archiveurl= |archivedate=}}</ref><ref name="Nintendo Wii Wi-Fi page">{{cite web|author=sjohnson|authorlink=|coauthors=|date=]|year=|month=|url=http://www.g4tv.com/thefeed/blog/TheFeed/post/618959/Secret_Wii_Details_Revealed.html|title=Secret Wii Details Revealed|format=|work=The Feed|pages=|publisher=G4 Media, Inc.|language=|accessdate=2006-07-20|accessyear=|curly=}}</ref> and the Friend Code system will control how players connect to one another.<ref name="Wii Wi-Fi Just Like DS">{{cite web|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/707/707865p1.html |title=Wii Wi-Fi Just Like DS |accessdate= |accessmonthday= |accessyear= |author= |last=Casamassina |first=Matt |authorlink= |coauthors= |date=] |year= |month= |format= |work=IGN.com |publisher=|pages= |language= |archiveurl= |archivedate=}}</ref><ref name="Nintendo Wii Wi-Fi page" /> This system will also be implemented for console-based software such as the Wii Message Board, for which a feature is being considered for alerting registered friends for the Wii Message Board about new games that have been purchased.
<ref name="Iwata v3 p3">{{cite web| url=http://wii.nintendo.com/iwata_asks_vol3_p3.html | title=Iwata Asks | publisher=Nintendo}}</ref>

The service has several features for the console, such as the Virtual Console, WiiConnect24 and the ]. The Wii console can also communicate and connect with other Wii systems by wireless LAN, enabling local wireless multiplayer on different television sets. '']'' first demonstrated this feature, for non-split screen multiplayer between two or more televisions. Nintendo announced two Wi-Fi enabled games at ] 2006 in Leipzig: '']'', and ''Battalion Wars 2''.
Although the console features an online mode, Nintendo has not provided the programming tools for 3rd party developers yet, meaning that only first party Wii games will be online, at least in 2006.<ref name="offline 2006">{{cite web | last=Dahl | first=Tobias | url=http://digitalbattle.com/2006/08/25/third-party-wii-games-offline-in-2006/ | title=Third Party Wii Games Offline In 2006 | publisher=DigitalBattle}}</ref> Nintendo has also stated that it will release an Ethernet Kit for the Wii console, which allows users to connect the console to a standard internet router without wireless support.<ref>http://computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=147074</ref> The console also has the ability to connect to the Internet using the Nintendo Wi-Fi USB Connector.<ref name="Wii Ethernet">{{cite web| url=http://www.aussie-nintendo.com/index.php?v=news&p=5563 | title=Nintendo to offer Ethernet Kit for Wii}}</ref>

At E3 2006 Nintendo announced WiiConnect24, a feature that will allow the Wii console to remain connected to the Internet in standby mode. The console only uses the amount of electricity equivalent to that of a miniature lightbulb. Some possible uses of WiiConnect24 that were mentioned include allowing friends to visit a player's village in ''Animal Crossing'' and downloading updates for games without having to be actively using the system. It has also been said that it would be possible to download Nintendo DS promotional demos using WiiConnect24 and later transfer them to one's Nintendo DS,<ref name="Iwata Tech-On 3">{{cite web|author=Naoki Asami|authorlink=|coauthors=ITpro Publisher; Hiroki Yomogita, Silicon Valley|date=]|year=|month=|url=http://techon.nikkeibp.co.jp/english/NEWS_EN/20060525/117498/?P=3|title=Regaining what we have lost: Nintendo CEO Iwata's Ambitions for the "Wii"|format=|work=Tech-On!|pages=3|publisher=Nikkei Business Publications|language=|accessdate=2006-06-09|accessyear=|curly=}}</ref> similar to a DS Download Station.

===Firmware===
Similar to the other next-gen consoles, the Nintendo Wii requires firmware updates from time to time. This was confirmed by IGN<ref name="IGN Firmware">{{cite web|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/745/745341p1.html|title=IGN: Wii Channels to Require Upgrade|accessdate=2006-10-12|date=2006-10-10}}</ref>, when it was discovered that to use the Online Channels, a firmware update was required. Some earlier produced units were reportedly shipped with older firmware, and had some problems. Most however ship with the latest version.

==Software library==
{{Main|List of Wii games}}
Games representing all of Nintendo's flagship franchises, such as the '']'', '']'', '']'', '']'', '']'', '']'', and '']'' series have been announced for the Wii console. Likewise, there are many original titles for it as well as many expected third party games. ] has upped their number of titles in development for the console to 14 (eight of which are to be launch games and only three of which were previously known about),<ref name="E3 2006 game list">{{cite web|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/706/706630p1.html|title=E3 2006: Wii Game List|publisher=]|author=Matt Casamassina|date=]|accessdate=2006-09-04}}</ref> while ] has announced they have six titles in development,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=143739|title=Ubisoft and Midway suck up Wii|author=Matt Wales|publisher=computerandvideogames|date=]|accessdate=2006-08-07}}</ref> and ], has recently increased their development efforts for the console, declaring they are going to support it '100%'.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=10311|title=EA Sees Larger Loss, Ramps Up Wii Production|author=Simon Carless|publisher=]|date=]|accessdate=2006-08-07}}</ref>

Following a statement from ] that the system would be region-free,<ref>{{cite web | url=http://blog.wired.com/games/2006/09/regionfree_wii.html?entry_id=1556591 | Author=Joel Johnson | date=2006-09-14 | title=Region-Free Wii | publisher=Wired | accessdate=2006-11-03}}</ref> Nintendo of America and Nintendo of Europe have come to an agreement that the console will be ].<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/15/wii-not-even-remotely-region-free/ | Author=Ludwig Kietzmann| date=2006-09-15 | title=Wii not even remotely region-free | publisher=Joystiq | accessdate=2006-11-03}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=67653 | title=Wii is region-locked after all | date=2006-09-15 | publisher=EuroGamer | accessdate=2006-10-28}}</ref> However, the information was conveyed through an interview followed by corrections from spokespersons and has left some uncertainty on the matter.

==References and notes==
{{clean up|November 2006}}
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<!--PLEASE SEE DISCUSSION ABOUT SOUTH PARK AND OTHER "POP CULTURE" ITEMS
-->==See also==
{{Dedicated video game consoles}}
{{portal|Nintendo|Wikitendo2.svg}}
{{Commonscat|Wii}}
*]

==External links==
<!-- ================================================================= -->
<!-- Please follow wikipedia policy on external links. -->
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; Official sites
*
*
*
* - Nintendo President, Satoru Iwata, media briefing speech at E3 2006
* - Nintendo E3 2006 coverage
* {{ja icon}}
*

; Unofficial coverage
<!-- Do not add links to this list without first discussing them. -->
*
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{{Wii}}
{{Nintendo hardware|Wii}}

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Revision as of 22:28, 20 November 2006