Nintendo has today announced that when their new Wii U console arrives later this year, it will come fitted with support for near field communication (NFC). Nintendo’s president Satoru Iwata explained that the company has added NFC technology to enable their new gaming console to interact with cards and gaming figurines.
Other possibilities for using the new NFC support might even include the ability to make micro-payments directly from your Wii U console, as the NFC hardware included in the Wii U will be compatible with the widely-used FeliCa and MIFARE standards.
Enhanced Gaming Experience
The integration of NFC technology into the Wii U console opens up a plethora of new possibilities for gamers. For instance, players can expect a more interactive and immersive gaming experience. Imagine being able to use physical cards or figurines that represent characters or items in your game. By simply placing these objects near the console, players can unlock new features, characters, or levels, adding a tangible element to the digital gaming world. This could revolutionize how games are played and experienced, making them more engaging and interactive.
Moreover, the NFC technology can facilitate easier and more secure transactions within the gaming ecosystem. Players could use NFC-enabled cards to purchase in-game items, expansions, or even full games without needing to input credit card information repeatedly. This seamless integration of micro-payments can enhance user convenience and security, making the Wii U a more attractive option for gamers who value both innovation and ease of use.
Nintendo Network Service
The announcement also included news that Nintendo will be launching a new Nintendo Network service for its 3DS and Wii U consoles, which will add support for multiple user accounts, full game downloads, and more sophisticated gaming interactions. This service aims to create a more connected and versatile gaming environment, allowing players to enjoy a wide range of digital content and online features.
Nintendo’s president Satoru Iwata today announced: “By installing this functionality, it will become possible to create cards and figurines that can electronically read and write data via noncontact NFC and to expand the new play format in the video game world.”
The Nintendo Network service is expected to offer features similar to those found on other gaming platforms, such as Xbox Live and PlayStation Network. This includes online multiplayer gaming, digital distribution of games, and social networking features. By providing a robust online service, Nintendo aims to enhance the overall gaming experience and keep up with the evolving demands of the gaming community.
Additionally, the Nintendo Network service will support cloud storage, allowing players to save their game progress and settings online. This means that players can access their saved games from any Wii U console, providing greater flexibility and convenience. The service will also include parental controls, ensuring a safe and secure gaming environment for younger players.
Nintendo’s new Wii U console is expected to be released in the second half of 2012 in North America, Europe, and Japan. The introduction of NFC technology and the Nintendo Network service marks a significant step forward for Nintendo, as they continue to innovate and adapt to the changing landscape of the gaming industry.
Source:
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.