Though its lifetime sales tell a different story, the Wii U is here to stay. Despite the launch of the still-to-be-revealed NX console, Nintendo has confirmed that satisfying customers who have purchased the Wii U hardware remain a priority moving forward.
This strategy extends to Nintendo’s 3DS as well, according to the company’s President Satoru Iwata – mind you, it’s the flagship home console that needs the support more so than the handheld.
“The NX is new hardware, and will start from zero. However, the 3DS and Wii U have install bases. Immediately cutting off software for previous hardware upon the release of a new machine is inefficient. We will continue making 3DS and Wii U software while preparing for the NX. We are prioritizing satisfying customers who purchased the Wii U.”
Iwata’s mission goal was presented to investors and comes mere days after Shigeru Miyamoto touched upon the system’s shortcomings. In a candid interview, the famed Mario creator attributed the Wii U’s flash in the pan to the meteoric rise of tablet devices, and how they effectively undercut what was once the hardware’s unique selling point.
Ultimately, Nintendo’s commitment to both the Wii U and 3DS was evidenced by the company’s Direct presentation during E3. With little to unveil in terms of the NX, it was the publisher’s current systems that took up all of the running time, though a few of The Big N’s most ardent supporters were still left a bit cold by the mooted event.
What do you think, though? Is Nintendo fighting for a cause that’s already lost with the Wii U? Or does the console still appeal to you despite its meagre install base? Let us know using the comments section below.
Published: Jun 29, 2015 11:54 am