It looks like Nintendo is more than content to stay behind the technological curve with their “next-gen” console as well, banking on the success of the console’s tablet controller to carry it through. Darksiders 2 developer Vigil has been putting the Wii U through its paces and while it’s certainly a lot more capable than its predecessor, it doesn’t seem to have stunned them with its graphical prowess.
“We got the game running on their hardware pretty quickly, and the controller’s been great to work with,” according to Darksiders 2 director Marvin Donald. “Now it’s just down to deciding what we really want to do to make it a unique experience on the Wii U; taking advantage of the extra screen and the touch capability and all that. So, we’ll have a few new features for sure, but I think visually, for the most part, it’ll be pretty much the same.”
Innovative Controller Design
The Wii U’s tablet controller, officially known as the Wii U GamePad, is indeed a unique selling point for the console. It features a 6.2-inch touchscreen, traditional button controls, and analog sticks. This allows for a variety of gameplay experiences that are not possible on other consoles. For instance, the GamePad can be used for off-TV play, meaning you can continue playing your game on the GamePad screen even if the TV is turned off or being used for something else. Additionally, the touchscreen can be used for inventory management, maps, and other secondary functions that would otherwise clutter the main screen.
Comparative Performance
While the Wii U is more powerful than its predecessor, the Wii, it still lags behind the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One in terms of raw graphical capabilities. This has been a point of contention for many developers and gamers alike. However, Nintendo has always focused more on innovative gameplay and unique experiences rather than competing in the graphics arms race. Games like “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” and “Super Mario Odyssey” have shown that compelling gameplay and creative design can often outweigh the need for cutting-edge graphics.
For example, “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” utilizes the GamePad in various ways, such as displaying the map and inventory, which enhances the overall gameplay experience. Similarly, “Super Mario Maker” allows players to design their own levels using the touchscreen, making the GamePad an integral part of the game.
Moreover, the Wii U’s backward compatibility with Wii games and accessories adds another layer of value to the console. This means that players can still enjoy their favorite Wii titles without having to keep an old console around.
Developer Insights
Developers like Vigil have expressed that while the Wii U may not be a powerhouse in terms of graphics, it offers other advantages that can lead to unique and engaging gameplay experiences. The challenge lies in how developers can creatively use the GamePad to enhance their games. For instance, in “Darksiders 2,” the GamePad could be used for quick access to the inventory or map, making the gameplay more fluid and less interrupted.
Marvin Donald’s comments highlight the potential for innovation with the Wii U. “It’s just down to deciding what we really want to do to make it a unique experience on the Wii U; taking advantage of the extra screen and the touch capability and all that,” he said. This sentiment is echoed by other developers who see the Wii U as a platform for creative experimentation rather than just another console to port games to.
In conclusion, while the Wii U may not compete with other consoles in terms of graphical power, its innovative GamePad and unique gameplay experiences offer a different kind of value. Developers like Vigil are exploring ways to leverage these features to create engaging and memorable games. As Nintendo continues to focus on innovation and unique gameplay, the Wii U stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what a gaming console can be.
Source Game Reactor
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