Gadgets

Nintendo Won't Reduce Wii U Prices, Slow Sales Notwithstanding

Sumit Passary email: s.passary@mobilenapps.com

Nintendo released the Wii U in November 2012 and it's no secret that the gaming console did not attract as many gamers as the company had hoped for. However, despite slow sales, Nintendo is in no mood to cut Wii U's price.

"With Wii U, we have taken a rather resolute stance in pricing it below its manufacturing cost, so we are not planning to perform a markdown," said Satoru Iwata, President Nintendo.

The Wii U is the company's first console to support high-definition graphics, which is capable of producing up to 1080p video output. The console has 2GB of RAM, with half dedicated to the console's operating system.

Nintendo launched the Wii U in a "Basic" white-colored version with 8GB of internal Flash storage and a "Deluxe" or "Premium" black-colored version with 32GB of Flash storage. The Deluxe package also includes stands for the console and for the GamePad, as well as a charging dock for the GamePad.

The Wii U's primary controller is the Wii U GamePad, which features an embedded touchscreen. Many gamers believe the GamePad has confused users with its tablet-style controller. Gamers can supplement the main gameplay shown on the television on the GamePad. Additionally, the GamePad also supports Off TV Play, which allows a player to continue playing games by displaying the main gameplay even when the television is off.

Even with so much on offer from Nintendo, the Wii U could not make a positive impression on many gamers. Furthermore, the company has also reduced its sales forecast on Wii U sales for the March quarter.

"However, given that it has now become clear that we have not yet fully communicated the value of our product, we will try to do so before the lineup is enhanced and at the same time work to enrich the software lineup which could make consumers understand the appeal of Wii U," said Iwata.

As the Wii U hit the shelves only a few months ago, a price drop may upset many buyers who have paid full price for the console. Time will tell what tricks Nintendo has up its sleeves to draw gamers towards the Wii U.

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