The Nintendo Wii was released on November 19th, and well, most stores sold out shortly after release. Now I know why. The name Wii was chosen because is easily pronounced in any language, and in our English language, it resembles We. The idea is to bring the whole family into the enjoyment of the console.
Nintendo achieves this whole family approach by adding different features that make the console not just a gaming unit but more of a family utility console. One of the main things they added to it was the Wii channels. These can be accessed through the Wii Menu.
Mii Channel
Here small fully customizable characters can be created ad stored. The characters are then used in many of the Wii games such as the Wii Sports package included with the console. This little people can not only be stored in the Wii memory, but also in the Wiimote for easy transfer to other units. This will come in handy when the kids want to go play at the neighbor’s house.
Forecast Channel
Like any forecast channel on TV or the internet, you can get your local weather. The only limit to it is that it can only be used when the unit is connected through the internet. The console is either connected though a Wi-fi connection or USB.
News Channel
Only accessible through the internet, it brings the latest news to your console. They are updated periodically through your internet connection. This channel is set for release in January 27, 2007.
Wii Shop Channel
Here’s where most of us will spend the time. Here you can get your classic NES games along with many other games and features. Buy points or redeem points here to get access to downloads. When the Internet channel becomes available, the Opera web browser will be available here for download.
Virtual Console
Here you can access the classic games purchased in the Shop Channel. The games appear as their own channel, within the console.
Internet Channel
One of the most awaited channels of the console. Here you will be able to surf the net in stile, on the big TV, with a wireless Wiimote. It will be compatible with Flash, so the kids (and kids at heart ?) can play online games. This channel is scheduled for release soon, but there’s no date set.
Wii Message Board
An easy way to remind the kids they need to do their homework before they play. Rather than scribbling messages on a board or a sticky note, do it in the Wii. Not only that but they can be used to send messages to cell phones and other consoles.
Photo Channel
Here you can edit and modify pictures contained in an SD card. You can also create slide shows with your favorite pictures, and even put in your tunes as backgrounds music in mp3 format. You can also create puzzles and other thins with your pictures. What can be more fun that posting an embarrassing picture on the big screen TV?
All this info was obtained through personal experience and the Nintendo Wii website.
