The Nintendo Wii U gamepad is not just a controller, but also an additional screen, a separate console, and even a TV remote!
For more than two decades, Nintendo has been producing game consoles, including the much-loved N64 and Game Boy, and the Wii U which was released in 2012.
While the original Wii consoles were not as impressive as Xbox or PlayStation, the Wii U has truly set itself apart with its ability to be played as a home-based console or a handheld system for supported games.
Our team was impressed with this amazing little device that has a lot of interesting features and capabilities!
Nintendo Wii U Features
First off, let’s look at the best and most basic Nintendo Wii U feature: the gamepad controller.
The gamepad, as it is referred to, is epic. It works as a controller and an accenting screen for whatever game you’re playing. This is a bit difficult for gamers to wrap their heads around at first due to the dual screens.
Fortunately, with some practice and patience, you’ll come to appreciate this unique feature that is not seen on any other device.
Another great feature about the gamepad is that it can also be used as a standalone device. While the main console needs to be on and within range for it to work, the gamepad can play games solely on itself.
The Wii U Gamepad
Several games are available as stand-alones to be played on the gamepad. Unfortunately, there are not many yet, but more are coming as people realize the great features of the Wii U!
This separate entity feature for the gamepad on the Wii U is one of its better features. The gamepad has a fairly decent reach, and users have been able to video chat, play games, and enjoy the extra features built right into the gamepad while in separate rooms of the house more than twenty-five feet away from the main console.
This is especially handy when there’s a show on the television that you, or someone else, simply “must-see”. All you need to do is make sure that your Wii U main console is on and then change the video source to whatever option you want while the gamepad is on!
The Nintendo Wii U gamepad is not just a controller, additional screen, and separate console, but it’s also capable of controlling your television! It’s like a pocket multi-tool of the tech-verse, effectively working with any device it’s programmed with, including TVs, home control systems, stereos, and more.
To ensure that you can still use your Wii U even if the batteries die or someone is using the original remote, it’s important to keep them in a safe place. When it comes to playing games on the Nintendo Wii U, you won’t be disappointed as it’s the perfect console for retro gamers. With its updated system, you can easily transfer files from older consoles and play classic games like Mario, Donkey Kong, and Castlevania. While other gaming consoles make it difficult to play games from previous generations without spending a lot of money, Nintendo has made it easy. Although the console doesn’t have multiplayer online options or hardcore gaming series like Fable, Elder Scrolls, or Call of Duty, it still offers a variety of games, including Lego games and Batman games. In addition to its gaming capabilities, the Wii U also serves as a media hub, with internet browsing, Netflix watching, Facebook posting, and more. While the Xbox One and PS4 offer similar features, the Wii U is more affordable and has additional features like apps for Sketchpad, Animal Crossing, Hulu, Amazon Instant Prime, and more. As the popularity of Nintendo’s app store grows, more developers will create apps for the console. However, it’s worth noting that Skype isn’t currently available on the Nintendo app store, despite the gamepad having a great camera.
Nintendo has ensured that the Wii U has an array of options for users to choose from. The gamepad offers a high definition display with a camera, while the Wii U monitor has a camera too, making it the perfect device for video chatting. The gamepad can be used either as a solo chat option or on the television. It also has a drawing feature on the touchscreen display, which allows users to write notes, play games such as Tic-Tac-Toe, and more. However, the Wii U also has its downfalls. The gamepad lacks the ability to hold its charge for very long, which can be frustrating. Additionally, the device lacks a hard drive, but it features four USB 2.0 ports and an SD slot, which allows users to hook up an external hard drive for more storage options. The Wii U also has various remote options, including the gamepad and the original handheld Wii remote with the nunchuk.
Learning to use the new gamepad can be frustrating, especially when you have to spend $40 or more on a Wii remote for games that require the nunchuk and remote. Nevertheless, the Wii U is a significant step forward for Nintendo. It boasts impressive features like a media hub, an excellent controller, and some great games that will take you back in time. However, there are a few drawbacks and setbacks. The lack of games and the inability to charge the device are two major flaws that make many people avoid the Wii U. But, with more titles being released every month, you can still make the most of your device using the video chatting feature and the ability to hack it thanks to the extensive external storage features. Although the Wii U may not be as cool as the Xbox One or the PS4, it has its unique feel and features that you won’t find on any other console.
FAQ
1. What is the Wii U?
The Wii U is a video game console developed by Nintendo. It is the successor to the Wii and was released in 2012. The Wii U features a unique gamepad controller with a touchscreen display, which allows for new gaming experiences.
2. How many Wii U consoles have been sold?
As of June 30, 2018, Nintendo has sold approximately 13.56 million Wii U consoles worldwide. This is significantly less than the sales of its predecessor, the Wii, which sold over 100 million units.
3. Can I play Wii games on the Wii U?
Yes, the Wii U is backwards compatible with most Wii games. You can play Wii games on the Wii U using a Wii remote or the Wii U gamepad.
4. What are some popular games on the Wii U?
Some popular games on the Wii U include Super Mario 3D World, Mario Kart 8, Splatoon, and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
5. Is the Wii U still being supported by Nintendo?
No, Nintendo has discontinued production of the Wii U and has shifted its focus to the Nintendo Switch console. However, the Wii U still has a dedicated fan base and there are still new games being released for the console.
6. What are some features of the Wii U gamepad?
The Wii U gamepad features a 6.2 inch touchscreen display, motion control, NFC support, and a front-facing camera. It also has a built-in microphone and stereo speakers.
7. Can I use the Wii U gamepad as a TV remote?
Yes, the Wii U gamepad can be used as a TV remote. It has built-in infrared functionality, which allows it to control your TV and cable box.
Zayn Anderson is a prolific writer with a passion for uncovering the world’s intriguing facts. Armed with an insatiable curiosity, he delves into various subjects, from history and science to nature and technology.