While the device lacks the same level of gaming power offered by Microsoft's Xbox 360 and Sony's PlayStation 3, its unique controller has prompted gamers to mark it as a contender.
Nintendo first demonstrated the Wii controller to the gaming community this month in Los Angeles at E3, the Electronic Entertainment Expo.
The Wii remote, which is equipped with a motion-sensor in addition to the usual controls, can be used as a direct-action implement, allowing players to swing it like a light saber, sword or baseball bat in communication with the game being played. (Click here for a CNET.com video of the Wii in action.)
The Wii became the underdog hit of E3, despite criticism of its quirky name. (The device was called Revolution during development.)
Nintendo did not release pricing and availability at that time.
During E3, Sony announced that its PS3 would be available for $499 for the 60GB hard drive version and $499 for the 20GB version. Microsoft's Xbox 360 sells for between $299 and $399, depending on options, but the company has had problems meeting demand, frustrating both would-be customers and Microsoft stockholders. The company announced an increase in Xbox 360 production in March.
Nintendo first demonstrated the Wii controller to the gaming community this month in Los Angeles at E3, the Electronic Entertainment Expo.
The Wii remote, which is equipped with a motion-sensor in addition to the usual controls, can be used as a direct-action implement, allowing players to swing it like a light saber, sword or baseball bat in communication with the game being played. (Click here for a CNET.com video of the Wii in action.)
The Wii became the underdog hit of E3, despite criticism of its quirky name. (The device was called Revolution during development.)
Nintendo did not release pricing and availability at that time.
During E3, Sony announced that its PS3 would be available for $499 for the 60GB hard drive version and $499 for the 20GB version. Microsoft's Xbox 360 sells for between $299 and $399, depending on options, but the company has had problems meeting demand, frustrating both would-be customers and Microsoft stockholders. The company announced an increase in Xbox 360 production in March.
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