Nintendo Wii to launch November 19th at $249.99

[Anthony1]

Articles in the New York Times and Seattle Post that will appear in tomorrows versions will spill the beans that the Nintendo Wii will launch on November 19th for $249.99 in North America. And for the first time since the Sega Saturn a major U.S. console release will include a pack in game, Wii Sports. No word yet on one controller or two. This hasn't been 100 percent confirmed yet, but this appears legit.

[kai123]

I don't want Wii Sports.....people talk about sony and MS shoving stuff down your throat. Wouldn't the system be alot cheaper without a game? Also I would rather have two controllers instead of Wii Sports, or maybe the regular style controller and a Wiimote.

[Anthony1]

My apologies to PapaStu who reported this in the Japan Wii Conference Chat thread. I didn't read that thread all the way and I didn't notice that he already broke the news. My bad. Anywho, we can use this thread to discuss our reactions to the price and pack in game and other various details that will come out tomorrow.



As for my person reaction to the price, I was really, really, really hoping for $199. If it was $199, I would buy it without hesitation, at $249, it becomes more of a decision making process. $199 would have been a no brainer purchase, but now I must actually think about it for awhile. The fact that Wii sports is the pack in, does soften the blow a little bit, but for me it doesn't take it back into the "no brainer" category that $199 would have taken it. I don't purchase games, I rent them, so being forced to purchase Wii sports is not my preference. Also, I don't look at Wii sports as being a $49.99 game anyways. I think of it more like a $39.99 or $34.99 type of game.


Having said all of that, if it has 2 controllers packed in as well, then it's back into the "no brainer" category and if it has component cables packed in, that's a special bonus. But I'm thinking it's one controller and no component cables, so that brings me back to reality and back to somewhat of a dissapointment over the news. I guess we will just have to wait for all the official details.

[Anthony1]

I forgot to mention the release date. I find it very odd that they would be releasing the system two days after the PS3. That doesn't make very much sense to me. I thought it was coming out in mid to late October, to steal the PS3's thunder. There are going to be a few gamers that would have gotten a Wii, that aren't going to be able to, because they are going to be totally broke by the 19th, because they will be in severe debt after getting the PS3. Sure there are only so many PS3's to be able to buy, so this isn't that big a factor but still. Had they come out well before the PS3, the exact opposite could have happened. You would have people who were saving up for the PS3, that won't be able to overcome the temptation for the Wii, and after buying a Wii and a couple of games and accessories, they won't have the $$$ needed for the PS3, and will have to scap their plans to get a PS3.


Oh well, I guess the good part of it for Nintendo, is the fact that there are going to be hundreds of thousands of people who really wanted the PS3, but couldn't get one, and two days later the Wii is going to be available and it's going to look mighty tempting, so that might be part of their strategy. All the empty handed gamers that miss out on the PS3, can fall back on the Wii, so maybe everything will balance out for them. I wonder if the development of Zelda played a part in this. Everything was pointing to mid October or late October and we go from that to November 19th, it's just kinda strange.

[thefireflowermario]

no that is false, this is

http://tinyurl.com/kmsyw

EDIT BY GAC: Linkage was Wayyyyy too long. Please learn how to use http://tinyurl.com

[SkiDragon]

That is too much. All Microsoft has to do is lower their price by $50 and they will have a much more powerful system for the same price. I expected the Wii to be the same price as every other Nintendo console at launch ($200), or more likely cheaper, seeing as though it's a bit lacking in the hardware department. The only thing that has an excuse to be expensive are the controllers. Not that I think any of the other systems are better deals, they are all too expensive. Maybe I will get a Vectrex or something instead.

[MarkMan]

That's the Japan release date. In the link above.

December 2nd for 25,000 Y(Roughly $212 USD).

Contents include:

System
Stand
Sensor
Remote
Attachment(Nunchuck)
Batteries

Japanese system is not packaged with Wii Sports.

[geneshifter]

Goodness, Nintendo is going to screw themselves AGAIN if they price that thing too high. The Virtual Console prices, especially for the NES titles, is crazy high in US dollars.

[smork]

I am still quite excited!!!!

Did anybody REALLY expect the virtual console titles to be any cheaper than that? $250 is a smidge too much but i'll be getting mine on December 2.... 25K yen ain't so bad! Just hope I can get one :)

[2Dskillz]

I know I was caught up in all of the speculation of lower prices, and the date is about a month later than I had hoped but don't you think your being harsh on Nintendo? They are still offering a next-gen experience at a considerably lower price and keeping all other games at $50 going against the new standard of $60 for next-gen titles.



As for Wii Sports: The pack-in gives great examples of the extent of the Wii-motes abilities in a easy to understand form. It follows the "getting everyone gaming" philosophy that Nintendo has been swearing to uphold.

[Anthony1]

the "getting everyone gaming" philosophy that Nintendo has been swearing to uphold.


If they want to get everyone gaming, then they better put 2 Wii-motes in the box. If there are 2 Wii-motes in the box, then I'm very happy, and have no problems at all with the $249.99 price.


I also don't have a problem with the $249.99 price if they put Wii Sports in the box along with Component cables too. But if it's Wii Sports and a S-Video cable or some crap like that, then I'm pretty dissapointed. Wii Sports is a $39.99 title at best, and it's a game I wouldn't have purchased anyway. I'm a rental only guy, at least until games are $19.99 or so.

[thefireflowermario]

check this out www.wii.com

[thefireflowermario]

sry for 2x post but http://www.nintendo.co.jp/wii/topics/wii_preview/movie/lineup.html

[NEOFREAK9189]

does the Wii have 5.1 audio
because I ready have Component cable from the game cube

[swlovinist]

First of all, The Wii from the get go is not going for a graphics whore approach. I think that packing in component cables would not benifit the core audience of the Nintendo owners. I personally am happy that it does come with a pack in game and for $250. One thing that has not talked about is the operating system. Yep, you now can go on the internet, but I am sure that it will have it limitations. Opera software is also coming with the Wii. Nintendo is still thinking smart, after a few days, the PS3 will be a fond memory and will not be seen on shelves, leaving the 360 and Wii to be readily available. The download pricing scheme seems high, but hey, to the average non collector that price seems pretty good I bet. I still think the system is going to clean house this christmas IF they can have enough product on the shelves.

[eggwolio]

The Gamecube launch was right around the same time as the Xbox, and if you remember, Nintendo offered no punishment for stores who broke street date at that time. I can only imagine that the wii will be exactly the same.

[Trebuken]

That video was cool...I hope they have a US version; many of those Japanese flavored games seem hokey to me.

I agree that the date is a good one. No PS3's will be available. People will walk in the stores to get one, see that none are left, and pick up a Wii instead, after all it's much cheaper.

I am irked that neither Metroid 3 or Zelda look like they will be available on day 1. Zelda must be finished...it's been forever. They probably just want enough units on the street before releasing the game.

For those wanting, and able, to get both systems at launch, we need to be prepared for bankruptcy though. I usually have to work insane ours for Thanksgiving, having to wait in line or go to a midnight launch sale will likely put me in a coma.

I thought I heard about the classic games getting a facelift for launch. This might make the pricing worthwhile. 30 classics at launch? I bet there will be a Zelda in that list...

Later,
Trebuken

[slip81]

Well, looks like I won't be buying one after all, at least not untill I can get the system without Wii Sports, or they bundle in a game I actually care about.

I like the idea of not having a pack in game, it allows you to pick a game you really want instead of being forced to get some crap.

The $249 doesn't bother me, because really, if it was $199, with no game, you'd be back up to $249 after getting a game, but at least it would be one that you wanted.

I'll get the component cable as soon as it's available though.

[189]

We also have to keep in mind that the North American conference isn't until later today. Nintendo might announce a core package, more bundles, etc. etc.

About the pack in game, if it is the only way I am getting a Wii, then I'm fine with it. Besides, I was going to pick up Wii Sports anyway...so why not get it in a bundle?

[189]

I'll go ahead and post this as a second post.(for some reason the edit button is not showing up) I just came across the launch line up for November 19.


Trauma Center (Atlus)
Elebits (Konami)
Machikuru Domino (Success)
Necro-Nesia (Spike)
Super Monkey Ball Uki-Uki Party Shuugoh (Sega)
Swing Golf Panya (Tecmo)
Wing Island (Hudson)
Kororinpa (Hudson)
SD Gundam REVOLUTION (Bandai Namco)
Ennichi no Tatsujin (Bandai Namco)
Tamagotchi no Pika Pika Daito-ryo-! (Bandai Namco)
Red Steel (Ubisoft)
Wii Sports (Nintendo)
Odoru Made In Wario (Nintendo)
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess (Nintendo)
Hajimete no Wii (Nintendo)

Of course, some will be Japan only releases. But this is a general idea of what you will be able to pick up with an extra $40-$50.

[s1lence]

I find it funny that some of you are bitching about the ZOMG 250 dollar price tag. Its cheaper then the 360 its WAY cheaper then the PS3, but oh noes it has a pack in game that pushes the price up. I guess if you don't want the pack in game, wait because I'm sure the price will drop or they won't include a game at some point in time.

Including a game seems to make sence to selling to the masses though. Just about everytime I go to a store and a older parent/grandparent buys a system they ask if it includes a game in the box and then procede to complain that there isnt a game included.

As for the release date, I actually think its a good idea. Think about it, parent wants to buy kid new game system for x-mas. PS3 will most likely not be avalible that weekend, but HEY there is the new nintendo here and its cheaper, I'll get that.

Just my two cents.

[lordnikon]

I find the Pricing of the Wii downloadable classic games to be absurd. 5-10 dollars is too expensive, since you can buy the actual carts for cheaper.

To put this in another perspective:

The upcoming Sega Genesis collection for the Playstation 2 will have a grand total of 31 titles (including the 3 unlockable games). This collection will be retailing for an MSRP of $19.99.

To buy all of these games on the Wii... in downloadable format... would cost you:

31 x 5 = $155.00

Yea. Crazy.

[Griking]

I don't want Wii Sports.....people talk about sony and MS shoving stuff down your throat. Wouldn't the system be alot cheaper without a game? Also I would rather have two controllers instead of Wii Sports, or maybe the regular style controller and a Wiimote.

Wow, people seem to always find something to complain about :roll:

If you don't like sports simple, don't play it but I can't see how Nintendo including a pack in game win the Wii is anything less than great news.

[GrandAmChandler]

I find the Pricing of the Wii downloadable classic games to be absurd. 5-10 dollars is too expensive, since you can buy the actual carts for cheaper.

To put this in another perspective:

The upcoming Sega Genesis collection for the Playstation 2 will have a grand total of 31 titles (including the 3 unlockable games). This collection will be retailing for an MSRP of $19.99.

To buy all of these games on the Wii... in downloadable format... would cost you:

31 x 5 = $155.00

Yea. Crazy.

Not everyone wants all 31 of those games..... This is designed for people to download their favorite games for a small fee. Especially for those who really are not into retrogaming at all. $5-10 for a game is not bad. I mean come on, $10 for (lets play devils advocate here) Super Metroid or Earthbound or Mario Kart 64 is not that bad!!

Also, again stop bitching about the price. It's $250 with essentially 3 games!!! The accessories are cheaper than 360, and the console is defintely less. I think everyone needs to stop whining and remember that the OTHER competition is charging $600-$700 this year for their system.

So basically, shut up, open your wallets, and play with your Wii. Long. and Hard.

[189]

Including a game seems to make sence to selling to the masses though. Just about everytime I go to a store and a older parent/grandparent buys a system they ask if it includes a game in the box and then procede to complain that there isnt a game included.

I agree. Think about it, Nintendo is wanting to expand the market to older and younger players. The best way to do this is by showing how easy to use the controller is with simple games that everyone knows.

[MarkMan]

Looks like it's all official, even though we had a sneak preview last night...

Nintendo Wii
November 19
$249.99

Nintendo plans to ship 4 million total units from launch until year's end. The Wii will be available from over 25,000 locations in the U.S. alone.

http://wii.ign.com/articles/732/732707p1.html

All the news there.

Lots of talk about the Wii Channels and Wii connect.

Zelda gauranteed launch title, GameCube Zelda on Dec. 11th. Ouch.

All I gotta say is.

I'm preordering my shit today.

[189]

The Wii connect and Mii look amazing.

http://www.gizmodo.com/assets/resources/2006/09/nintendo_wiiface.jpg

[fame]

"MSRP: $249. One price, one config, one color: white. This simplicity allows us to maximize volume throughout the Americas. Our shipment goal worldwide is 4M consoles during the 43 days between launch and Dec 31. The Americas will receive the largest share, a continuous flow of units."

Still a little upset about there being only one color.

[geneshifter]

"MSRP: $249. One price, one config, one color: white. This simplicity allows us to maximize volume throughout the Americas. Our shipment goal worldwide is 4M consoles during the 43 days between launch and Dec 31. The Americas will receive the largest share, a continuous flow of units."

Still a little upset about there being only one color.

I'm upset because all Nintendo has been whining about is that Wii is for everyone, we O_O NOW, they are packaging the console with only one set of controllers. How stupid is that move I ask you ? :angry: x_x

[Mr.FoodMonster]

Well, I've been thinking for months that it was going to be $250, and anything lower would've just been a nice bonus. What is a nice bonus, is that Wii sports is going to be a pack in. That makes me pretty happy.

So uh, are EB and GS taking pre-orders yet? :D

[189]

"MSRP: $249. One price, one config, one color: white. This simplicity allows us to maximize volume throughout the Americas. Our shipment goal worldwide is 4M consoles during the 43 days between launch and Dec 31. The Americas will receive the largest share, a continuous flow of units."

Still a little upset about there being only one color.

I'm upset because all Nintendo has been whining about is that Wii is for everyone, we O_O NOW, they are packaging the console with only one set of controllers. How stupid is that move I ask you ? :angry: x_x

That seems to be the only thing that is upsetting me about the details. An extra wiimote is $39.99. Then, if you want to add the nunchuk attachment it's another $19.99. Having to pick up another controller for that much kinda knocks me out of buying another extra game.

Oh, I just read over at Engadget that the first Wii online game will be a Pokemon game. It will launch in Japan on Dec. 2, followed shortly by a US launch.

[geneshifter]

Yes, so for a total of just uder $500 I can play double tennis. No thanks.

[189]

Yes, so for a total of just uder $500 I can play double tennis. No thanks.

Uh, $280 isn't quite $500 bud.

[geneshifter]

Yes, so for a total of just uder $500 I can play double tennis. No thanks.

Uh, $280 isn't quite $500 bud.

No no, it's $265 or so after taxes for the base package. Then, around $210 for 3 more sets of the controllers. So, to play doubles tennis, close to $500.

[189]

Yes, so for a total of just uder $500 I can play double tennis. No thanks.

Uh, $280 isn't quite $500 bud.

No no, it's $265 or so after taxes for the base package. Then, around $210 for 3 more sets of the controllers. So, to play doubles tennis, close to $500.

LOL Ah, I see what you're saying. Sorry about that.

[geneshifter]

Yes, so for a total of just uder $500 I can play double tennis. No thanks.

Uh, $280 isn't quite $500 bud.

No no, it's $265 or so after taxes for the base package. Then, around $210 for 3 more sets of the controllers. So, to play doubles tennis, close to $500.

LOL Ah, I see what you're saying. Sorry about that.

No problem. I can't edit my typos with the migration and all. I am really disappointed in Nintendo for not taking FULL advantage of the current situation.

[Dobie]

4 million consoles will be shipped! Nice! Roughly 10x the number of PS3s available. Hopefully I will be able to simply walk into a store and find one! No camping this year for me. Fall is already starting to hit around here, and is reminding me how much sitting out in cold weather sucks.

[geneshifter]

I hope that most games do not need the nuncheck. Then, it's only closer to $400 for doubles tennis.

I'm obsessed with 4 player action since this is being bought for my nephews and they will all want to play together.

[AMG]

I think it's funny how Nintendo have said from the beginning that this console is being aimed at the so called "non gamers." Yet it's priced higher than any Nintendo console before it. With the most expensive controllers to boot.

Will I buy one? Sure. But is $249.00 attractive to people who have no interest in gaming? No.

[diskoboy]

I have to be the first to say - I don't like this price point and am definately gonna wait on a price drop or two.

$199 (even with Wii Sports) seems a little more fitting. Especially for a system that is barely more powerful than the Xbox 1.

[geneshifter]

You guys should check out this page. These videos make me feel better about the price that's for sure!!!

http://www.nintendo.co.jp/wii/topics/wii_preview/presentation/index.html

It's several pages but videos on most. Cool as ice :D

[s1lence]

I think it's funny how Nintendo have said from the beginning that this console is being aimed at the so called "non gamers." Yet it's priced higher than any Nintendo console before it. With the most expensive controllers to boot.

Will I buy one? Sure. But is $249.00 attractive to people who have no interest in gaming? No.

And 600 dollars for a ps3 is? lol

We don't even know the price of the PS3 controllers but if they arent 50-60 bucks I would be surprised.

[AMG]

I think it's funny how Nintendo have said from the beginning that this console is being aimed at the so called "non gamers." Yet it's priced higher than any Nintendo console before it. With the most expensive controllers to boot.

Will I buy one? Sure. But is $249.00 attractive to people who have no interest in gaming? No.

And 600 dollars for a ps3 is? lol


What does the PS3 have to do with this?

[189]

4CR is reporting that Zelda 1, Mario World, Donkey Kong, and Mario 64 will definately be available on launch day.

[s1lence]

I think it's funny how Nintendo have said from the beginning that this console is being aimed at the so called "non gamers." Yet it's priced higher than any Nintendo console before it. With the most expensive controllers to boot.

Will I buy one? Sure. But is $249.00 attractive to people who have no interest in gaming? No.

And 600 dollars for a ps3 is? lol


What does the PS3 have to do with this?

Saying that its expensive, thats all.

[neuropolitique]

If Nintendo wanted my money they should have not only included Wii Sports, but also compentent cables, Twilight Princess, Mario Galaxy, and 4 Controllers with nunchucks. And have priced it at $199. But since they seem to have their head up their ass, I won't be buying.

Don't they know that charging fair prices for shit alienates hardcore gamers!!!1??

Sorry nintendo, you blew it. Nintendo is going software only in 3 years.

[189]

There are two more features that Nintendo left out today. If you go to Wii.com there are still two empty video slots for the Wii Channels! So that means there are two suprises left for the Tokyo Game Show. Wonder what they could be? My guess is something big with the DS. :)

[s1lence]

If Nintendo wanted my money they should have not only included Wii Sports, but also compentent cables, Twilight Princess, Mario Galaxy, and 4 Controllers with nunchucks. And have priced it at $199. But since they seem to have their head up their ass, I won't be buying.

Don't they know that charging fair prices for shit alienates hardcore gamers!!!1??

Sorry nintendo, you blew it. Nintendo is going software only in 3 years.

LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL

[189]

http://www.nintendo.co.jp/wii/topics/wii_preview/movie/lineup.html

Found some new footage from some of the games being shown today. I'm really thinking that everyone is underestimating the power of this puppy.

If you watch closely...you can see some RE Wii video in there. :eek 2:

[NE146]

It seems right in line to me for the average range of console prices ever since the Atari VCS of $199-$299.

The only ones really to break that mold were stuff like the 3DO & Neo-Geo. Or maybe the Saturn.. I forget. But still, the majority are right in that range. So we can include the Wii now.

[Anthony1]

In regards to the price, people can see we are bitching about complaining about the price, but you have to realize that Nintendo kept saying that there system would be the cheapest and that it would be affordable to the masses, etc, etc. I find it somewhat odd, that the Wii will be their MOST EXPENSIVE home console in America ever. Super Nintendo = $199.99 Nintendo 64 = $199.99 GameCube = $199.99.


Also, the Wii is essentially a suped up GameCube with a special controller. GameCube's currently sell for $79.99 brand new. Certainly the controller costs some money, but at $249.99, Nintendo is definitely making a profit on this package, and I just think if they really, really, really wanted to appeal to the masses $199.99 would have been a better idea. $199.99 with no pack in, is much more attractive. Do you really think Wii Sports is enough of a game to sell on it's own for $49.99? I don't think so. I think Wii Sports is a $34.99 game. It's a very basic game, almost a tech demo for the Wii or a sample type game. Even if Nintendo sold the Wii with Wii Sports packed in for $199.99 I don't think they would be taking a loss. They might only have a couple of bucks profit on each unit, but I don't think they would be taking a loss at all. But with the $249.99 I think they are making a healthy profit on the Wii right from jump street, which is absolutely wonderful for them as a company, but not so great for us as consumers.

To be totally honest, this package isn't that bad a deal for me personally. Wii Sports is probably one of my most wanted Wii games period. I don't think it's a Wii game that is worth $49.99 or $44.99, but at $39.99 or $34.99 it's not a bad deal. If I was the type of person that bought new games (I have a rental only policy for any game above $29.99), I would have bought Wii Sports on day one if it was priced $39.99 or less. So for me, it's not that horrible a deal. The system is worth maybe $199 and Wii Sports is worth $34.99, so I'm only over paying by $15. So it's not that big a trajedy. I still would much rather buy a Wii with no game at all for $199.99, because I rent games anyways, so I wouldn't be buying anything until it hit the bargain bins.

[Anthony1]

that top sentence was supposed to read:


"In regards to the price, people can't see why we are bitching about the price....."

[AMG]

I think it's funny how Nintendo have said from the beginning that this console is being aimed at the so called "non gamers." Yet it's priced higher than any Nintendo console before it. With the most expensive controllers to boot.

Will I buy one? Sure. But is $249.00 attractive to people who have no interest in gaming? No.

And 600 dollars for a ps3 is? lol


What does the PS3 have to do with this?

Saying that its expensive, thats all.


My point is Nintendo has priced themselves out of the non gamers they're supposed to be aiming for. Why would someone with no interest in games want to spend $250? Even if they try the Wii out and like it they most likely won't spend that kind of money for it. If they really wanted to hit the non gaming market they should have gone cheaper.

Now I do feel $250 is a good price for gamers, but that wasn't the subject of debate.

[mario2butts]

In regard to the Wii's price being higher than the launch prices of past Nintendo consoles, we have to remember that these prices do not reflect inflation. A dollar today can buy more than a dollar 15 years ago, so its only natural that consoles today cost more than they did then. The Wii, at $249 2006 dollars is not a ripoff compared to, say, the Super NES at $199 1991 dollars.

According to this calculator (http://inflationdata.com/inflation/Inflation_Rate/InflationCalculator.asp), prices have increased by 48.98% from August 1991 to July 2006 (the latest month for which data is available). So the Super NES would have cost 199x1.4898= $296.47 in today's dollars. Likewise, the N64 would have cost $255.91, and the Gamecube $228.27 in 2006 dollars. So in comparison the Wii's price is really not that unusual or surprising.

[Neo Rasa]

My point is Nintendo has priced themselves out of the non gamers they're supposed to be aiming for. Why would someone with no interest in games want to spend $250?

Speaking from experience, as far as people who aren't obsessed with gaming like we are go, EVERYONE who got a DS, even those who originally weren't gamers, wants a Wii. That's at least true in this region. Marketing wise, the price is flawless because it's significantly lower than the perceived competition.

[Captain J]

In regard to the Wii's price being higher than the launch prices of past Nintendo consoles, we have to remember that these prices do not reflect inflation. A dollar today can buy more than a dollar 15 years ago, so its only natural that consoles today cost more than they did then. The Wii, at $249 2006 dollars is not a ripoff compared to, say, the Super NES at $199 1991 dollars.

According to this calculator (http://inflationdata.com/inflation/Inflation_Rate/InflationCalculator.asp), prices have increased by 48.98% from August 1991 to July 2006 (the latest month for which data is available). So the Super NES would have cost 199x1.4898= $296.47 in today's dollars. Likewise, the N64 would have cost $255.91, and the Gamecube $228.27 in 2006 dollars. So in comparison the Wii's price is really not that unusual or surprising.

excellent point! you can even go back to the vcs price of $199 and it would be over $400 today!

[7th lutz]

The price isn't bad with the pack-in. One of the reason why I wanted wii was because of wii sports.

[Captain J]

Nintendo is going software only in 3 years.

sheah, right, and monkeys might fly out of my butt! LOL

[c0ldb33r]

So will a classic controller be included?

[koster]

I'm glad that the Wii is backward-compatible with the entire Gamecube library, as I have a stack of games to finish, and more Gamecube games that I want to play.

Too bad there was no additional info on DVD playback, or a complete list of Virtual Console titles that would be available at launch.

Opera costing "Wii points" to download? :(
Internet Channel compatible with Macromedia Flash and AJAX? :)

[c0ldb33r]

Opera costing "Wii points" to download? :(
Internet Channel compatible with Macromedia Flash and AJAX? :)
I didn't hear about that - I thought Opera came installed in ROM

[GrandAmChandler]

So will a classic controller be included?

No, sold separately. However a Wii-mote and a Nunchuck adaptor will be included

[Neo Rasa]

Opera download only purchase for Wii usage is a very good idea actually. By definition an adult would be setting the wheels for it to be downloaded onto a Wii into motion so that Nintendo isn't held accountable is Timmy somehow starts using it as a standard web browser and finds 18 And Dripping Volume 4 or something.


No word on the classic controller.

Also no word on DVD player capabilities, originally they said if it's going to happen, it will be via a very cheap external device. Fine with me since I have more things that can play DVDs than I can count.

[Anthony1]

Here are some basic known facts about the Wii in North America as it currently stands.



Price = $249.99

Date = Sunday November 19th, 2006

Color = White only (for now)

Available at = 25,000 retailers in North and South America

# of units available worldwide = 4 million to 4.5 million with the majority for the North American market

Pack in = Wii Sports (includes Tennis, Golf, Baseball, Bowling and Boxing)

Controllers included = 1 nunchaku unit and 1 Wii-mote

AC Adapter = unknown exactly what type of power plug or AC Adapter it will be using, but of course it will be packed in the box

Audio/Video cables = no announcement yet, but expected to include basic audio/video cables. The ones with the yellow, red and white plugs. Yellow for composite video and red and white for left and right stereo.

SD cards for storage = not likely included

Internet Browser = Opera Browser (not included) must be purchased seperately for Wii points. Unknown how many Wii points it costs

Games confirmed for day 1 of launch = supposedly 25 games including: The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, Excite Truck, Call of Duty 3, Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam, Trauma Center: Second Opinion, Need for Speed: Carbon, Madden 07, Elebits, Super Monkey Ball Banana Blitz, Rayman: Raving Rabbids, Splinter Cell: Double Agent among others

Games confirmed by the end of 2006 = roughly 30 titles

Prices for first party games = $49.99 or less

Prices for Vitual Console games:

NES = 500 Wii points ($5)

SNES = 800 Wii points ($8)

Nintendo 64 = 1000 Wii points ($10)

Price of a 2000 points Wii card at retail = $20

Virtual Console games confirmed for launch = Super Mario World and Super Mario 64

Virtual Console games expected per month = 10 per month

Cost of additional Wii-motes = $39.99 (Nunchaku sold seperately)

Cost of additional Nunchaku units = $19.99

Cost of component cables = unknown, expected to be $29.99 or more

Cost of S-Video cables = unknown, probably $19.99 or so

Wii games delayed from launch window = Metroid Prime 3 is now a 2007 release

[slip81]

Also, again stop bitching about the price. It's $250 with essentially 3 games!!! The accessories are cheaper than 360, and the console is defintely less. I think everyone needs to stop whining and remember that the OTHER competition is charging $600-$700 this year for their system.

So basically, shut up, open your wallets, and play with your Wii. Long. and Hard.

The Wii is also less of a system technologically than the other two. The 360 has High Def and 5.1, and a dvd drive, HDD and component cables, the PS3 has high def, blu-ray, HDMI, 5.1 and an HDD, all of which help to justify the higher price.

The Will is basically a slightly more poweerful piece of hardware when compaired to the GCN.

Though I'm not complaining about the price, I don't like the idea of a pack period, as since the DC I haven't liked any launch line up for any system, hence why I haven't bought any at launch.

I don't like the idea of a pack in, bacuase to me, it forces you to spend money on something you may not want. If you want Wii sports, fine, it's a great price, if you don't though it's kind of like wasting money, because you'll have to spend an additional $50 just to get a game you want, when you already spent $50 for one you didn't want.

I'd rather buy the Wii for $199 without a game, and then spend the $50 on one that I want.

Also $5-10 isn't that bad for the downloadable games peope, Live Arcade games are essentially the same price, since most are 800 points, and you can only buy min 1000 for $12.95. At that rate you'd have to buy 4000 points before you'd have enough left over to get a game without getting additional points.

And since I hardly ever see anyone complain about the live arcade costs it must mean that you don't mind paying that much for downloadable games.

[Anthony1]

In regards to the cost of the virtual console games, I don't think the prices are too outa whack, but I think they should have made it more game specific. Some random crappy SNES game shouldn't cost the same as Super Metroid. According to their system, all SNES games are $8. All NES games being $5 is a pretty good deal. N64 games being $10 is kinda weird, I'm not sure there are any N64 games that I would want to spend $10 on, just to own something that doesn't have a physical form.


I wonder if like with Xbox Live, once you purchase these games, you own them for life, as long as you use the same Gamertag or whatever. Also, it would be sweet if you could purchase the VC games and once you bought them, you could play them on both the Wii and DS, for the one price. Then it would almost be worth it. Myself personally, I would rather have the real game, and until they come out with wireless replicas of their real controllers for the NES, SNES and N64, I'm not going to purchase any of those games, even the rare ones that are too expensive to buy off Ebay. I'd rather use my PC and a USB version of the real controller.


The only way they can get me to actually buy VC games, is if they add internet multiplayer to them. Like for Mario Kart SNES.

[YoshiM]

In regard to the Wii's price being higher than the launch prices of past Nintendo consoles, we have to remember that these prices do not reflect inflation. A dollar today can buy more than a dollar 15 years ago, so its only natural that consoles today cost more than they did then. The Wii, at $249 2006 dollars is not a ripoff compared to, say, the Super NES at $199 1991 dollars.

According to this calculator (http://inflationdata.com/inflation/Inflation_Rate/InflationCalculator.asp), prices have increased by 48.98% from August 1991 to July 2006 (the latest month for which data is available). So the Super NES would have cost 199x1.4898= $296.47 in today's dollars. Likewise, the N64 would have cost $255.91, and the Gamecube $228.27 in 2006 dollars. So in comparison the Wii's price is really not that unusual or surprising.

I love it when someone uses inflation. I used to as well but then I realized it's not really relevent. It's about current perception of value, not value based on how much things were X number of years ago.

[7th lutz]

With the virtual console, I have no idea what the prices or the tg-16 games will be.

The only virtual game console games that mentioned at http://www.gamesarefun.com/news.php?newsid=6877 were:
Donkey Kong-nes
Super Mario World-snes
Super Mario 64-n64
R-type-version unclear
Ecco the Dolphin-genesis
Bomberman 94-tg-16
The Legend of Zelda

The other games that were announced were from sega on Sept. 11th.
Those were According to http://www.gamesarefun.com/news.php?newsid=6850 were
Altered Beast-genesis
Columns-genesis
Golden Axe-genesis
Ristar-genesis
Sonic the Hedgehog-genesis
Toe Jam & Earl-genesis

There was no price on the genesis games either. That a bit bigs me also beside the tg-16. I hope sega and Hudson will give the prices for their genesis and tg-16 games.

[diskoboy]

According to joystiq - No DVD movie playback with the Wii. It won't effect my decision since I have 5 players laying around my house...

http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2006/09/wiiboxusa.jpg

Gotta love that packaging, though.

[NE146]

In regards to the price, people can see we are bitching about complaining about the price, but you have to realize that Nintendo kept saying that there system would be the cheapest and that it would be affordable to the masses, etc, etc. I find it somewhat odd, that the Wii will be their MOST EXPENSIVE home console in America ever. Super Nintendo = $199.99 Nintendo 64 = $199.99 GameCube = $199.99.

Why are you limiting it only to Nintendo consoles. the Genesis launched at $250 remember? So did the Atari 2600 . And I remember buying my Turbografx-16 at launch for the same amount as well!

How can it be terribly priced when the average console launch price over the past 20+ years has been $199-$299?? It fits right in there! :) All their other consoles have as well. They are consistent.

And by the way, the PSP is still $250 ;)

[le geek]

Well, I'm pretty excited, but still hesitant. The Mii feature sounds cool, but the pricing isn't quite the no brainer I was looking for. But really, it will come down to how well the Wii version of Zelda is reviewed as well as well as trying it out for myself...

Right now I'm leaning towards a 360, but am on a C64 emu kick...

Cheers,
Ben

[AMG]

http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2006/09/wiiboxusa.jpg

Gotta love that packaging, though.

Agreed, very classy looking.

[YoshiM]

I'm still waiting to see official word but the way things look, the $250 with Sports and one Wiimote/Nunchuck is practically set in stone. So I'll base my thoughts on that for now...

-A little miffed on price: $250 for one controller and a collection of mini games. I was hoping for $200, one controller and no game. To get a "full" controller it's $60 (remote plus chuck). I guess ya gotta pay for innovation.

-the separation of Wiimote and Chuck: So far it looks like many games are going to require the wiimote/chuck combo to play. Unfortunately Nintendo seems to have gone for the "necessary accessory" approach Sony did years back with the memory card on the PS1. You can buy a Wiimote separate but that might not help you if you want to play Call of Duty 3 with a buddy. Since the concept of the Wii is different, the "non gamer" may not know this additional purchase may be necessary, possibly causing some grief. Just package the two for $50-the nunchuck is probably gonna die before the wiimote anyway.

-extra features...why?: I could see music storage for custom soundtracks (hmm...sell music on Nintendo's online service that can be played on a DS using WiFi and a memory card...that's an idea...) but I didn't see web browsing and news/weather being an possibility or a desire. If you've got Internet access you most likely have a PC. Why would you downgrade to surfing the net on a TV? As for news-again you have your PC or you can tune in to cable/satellite/broadcast television to get info. Also how good will the weather information be? How "local" can the information get? Why use this when you can use WiiOpera to go to Weather Channel, Accuweather, etc. instead for possibly better info?

And if you don't have Internet access (or dial up) the option is now useless. I'd rather have it as a free or cheap option rather than built in

This has kinda gone from "launch day purchase" to "wait and see". My brother in law and I both have enough Gamestop credit for a fully decked out Wii (four controllers) but I had planned to purchase my own. If I like what I play and there are games I want that he'll never play, I'll probably pick a system up later.

[shopkins]

A couple of questions I'm hoping someone can answer:

Will the Wii have internal memory to save games or will we have to buy memory cards?

Will the Wii have 5.1 Surround support? I felt a little burned when the Gamecube just came with Dolby Prologic 2, especially since my system didn't support that standard.

How will it connect to the Internet? If it's only through Wi-fi that's going to add to the cost for me, because I only have one computer and when I had Internet I connected it directly through a cable modem.

How much will the SD card cost? How much will the Opera browser cost?

I also hate that they're using a points system to disguise how much downloadable games cost. It should be right out there in U.S. dollars. Points systems feel dishonest.

[c0ldb33r]

Will the Wii have internal memory to save games or will we have to buy memory cards?

I was thinking they'd just save to your SD card


How much will the SD card cost? How much will the Opera browser cost?

I assume we'll be able to use any old SD card. These are dirt cheap for big ones.


I also hate that they're using a points system to disguise how much downloadable games cost. It should be right out there in U.S. dollars. Points systems feel dishonest.

Not really - it's a simple conversion. I hope they'll award points for certain things, i.e. register 3 games and get 1000 free points or something like that. I supposed they could do it the same way just by saying register 3 games and get a free n64 download, but it seems less skeezy to give away points somehow.