Wii U Controller ReviewThe New Wii U Controller The new Wii U is accompanied by a brand new controller. It's most notable feature is a 6.2-inch, 16:9 touchscreen built-in to the controller itself. It is definitely a departure from traditional controllers which are typically small. Wii's first controllers are in-fact more wieldy than PS3 or Xbox 360 controllers, meaning they are easier to swing around and treat like a sword or a tennis racket. The big increase in the size of the remote will not only decrease its swing, but will definitely add cost to replace (so you probably won't want to swing it around too much). Backwards Compatible with the original Wii? The Wii u controller is not compatible with the original Wii. Gyroscope/Accelerometer The Wii U can sense movement, similar to many wireless controllers, phones, tablets, and even laptops these days. This increases the number of opportunities for game play that requires controller aiming and precise movements. Controls On the Wii U controller are the traditional directional pad, Y, X, A, and B buttons, L/R and ZL/LR Buttons (the four "triggers"), as well as two analog joysticks on either side of the controller. Miscellaneous buttons include the start/select buttons and the power button that turns the system on and off remotely. 3.5mm Audio Output When you want to just use the controller instead of your TV, you can also grab some headphones and plug right into the controller. Camera and Mic The Wii U controller has a camera that faces the face of the user, and a microphone. This addition opens the door to video face-to-face chatting. We are yet to know whether or not one can video chat with anyone online or only through Nintendo's network. 6.2 Inch Touchscreen This feature allows many new game types and even allows the playing of games without a TV altogether. This new feature allows Private Viewing, or the ability for one of the players in a multiplayer game to have a unique view of the game world. The touchscreen is also very valuable for single player gameplay where a second view into the game world can enhance game play. The possibilities seem quite expansive with this new feature, perhaps redefining console game play again. Private Viewing Since Nintendo is trying to once again revolutionize gaming, we should give them the benefit of the doubt and predict increased game play ability. The touchscreen is designed to be another view into the world of the game that is private from the rest of the four traditional Wii remote users. This private view into the game world allows many games not available on any other console. For example, there are already some previews available on new hide-and-go-seek style games (such as Wii Chase) where the one using the new touchscreen controller is the only one who knows where everyone else is, while everyone else tries to find the touchscreen user. There are many similar types of party games and family games possible with this kind of set-up, changing the gaming scene. |
Related Articles |