Nintendo to developers: Make all Wii U titles available for download?
According to a new report, Nintendo is going all-in on downloadable titles for its upcoming console.
Nintendo wants to give gamers more access to titles for its new Wii U, according to a report.
The game company is currently making it as appealing as possible for developers to make all of their Wii U games available for download, according to Wii U Daily, which claims to have spoken to a European developer who previously provided accurate information on the console.
The developer went on to tell the blog that Nintendo is "offering insane incentives for publishers to sell retail games as downloads on the console." The games, according to the developer, would be available through the Wii U eShop.
Nintendo mentions the eShop on its Wii U Web site, saying that the "digital storefront" will be available when the console launches. The company doesn't say that all games available at retail will be offered for download, but does point out that customers will "be able to purchase and download select games that are also available at retail stores."
Nintendo has in the past been criticized for its lack of a full-fledged digital strategy. The company has offered downloadable titles on the Wii, and users can stream films and television shows through Netflix, but its overall digital offering pales in comparison to those offered by its chief competitors, Sony and Microsoft. With the Wii U, Nintendo has made it clear that digital will play a key role in its strategy.
Beyond gaming, Nintendo has confirmed that Netflix, Hulu Plus, Amazon Instant Video, and YouTube will all be available on the Wii U. In addition, the company will offer video chat, an Internet browser, and a social network, called Miiverse.
CNET has contacted Nintendo for comment on the Wii U Daily report. We will update this story when we have more information.
