Looks like Sony’s not the only one releasing a feature-stripped budget-conscious reiteration of a popular console. Nintendo’s announced it plans to release newly redesigned Wii for European markets that’ll hit retail in time for Christmas.
Called the ‘Wii Family Edition’, the new Wii is a budget-minded value pack that comes with a MotionPlus Wiimote, Wii Sports and Wii Party. It’s (very) slightly sleeker and is meant to lie horizontally, so won’t ship with the vertical stand. It’ll be cheaper, but that price reduction comes at a cost : The new Wii eschews Gamecube backwards compatibility, and wont be compatible with any Gamecube accessories either. Unlike the PS3 and the Xbox, this is the the first major Wii redesign since the system launched in 2006. There was a minor update that added a layer or two of security to to try prevent softmods and modchips.
With Wii sales on the decline this could be just the thing to bring those who haven’ t yet jumped on board. For you hardcore gamers that overlooked the Wii, this presents a great opportunity to play some of this generation’s very best games, Like New Super Mario Bros Wii, Super Mario Galaxy, Dnkey Kong Country Returns and the new Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword.
We’ve asked Nintendo if we can expect this bundle locally and what it might be priced at, and will keep you updated.
Last Updated: August 17, 2011
