9 Things You Need to Know About Wii U

Wired: Nintendo’s Wii U is out November 18. We’ve had a review unit for a few days, and here’s what’s surprised us the most.

The next game console from Nintendo is a strange beast indeed. The controller, called GamePad, has a built-in touch screen. And the system can wirelessly stream its visuals to both the GamePad and the television at the same time. So you can play games in which the player has to alternate between the two screens. Or multiplayer games in which some players look at the TV while others look at the controller. Or you can just play games on the controller and forget about the TV entirely — which we were surprised to find might be the most compelling way to play on Wii U.

There’s still a lot we don’t know about how Nintendo’s new game machine will work, but here are some observations we’d like to share.

[Neonridr]

Oh man.. 5 days away.. come on Sunday.. come on Sunday!

ZombiU visions dance in my dreams..

[Hardlydan]

Just think of it as Saturday night!

[Neonridr]

although my store may not be doing a midnight launch unfortunately..

[eagle21]

Great information from a guy who used Wii U at home. Thanks!

[Wolfbiker]

im so excited for sunday lol

[Deku-Johnny]

You guys are lucky getting on Sunday, us in the UK have to wait an extra 12 days. If only it wasn't region locked.

[DivineAssault]

I wonder why u cant charge the tab thru the console