Wii U passing on DVD, Blu-ray
Nintendo says it will not include video playback formats in next console due to current ubiquity of such devices.
When Microsoft and Sony were engaged in the HD DVD vs. Blu-ray format wars at the beginning of the current-console generation, Nintendo opted to abstain from video playback entirely with the Wii. Now, it appears as if Nintendo plans to carry over that strategy to its next console, the Wii U.

Today, Nintendo posted an interview transcript from the 2011 Electronic Entertainment Expo in which company president Satoru Iwata confirms the Wii U will not support the DVD or Blu-ray video playback standards.
"Wii U does not have DVD or Blu-ray playback capabilities," Iwata said. "The reason for that is that we feel that enough people already have devices that are capable of playing DVDs and Blu-ray, such that it didn't warrant the cost involved to build that functionality into the Wii U console because of the patents related to those technologies."
When the Wii U was unveiled at this year's E3, Nintendo said that games will be delivered on a proprietary high-density optical disc format similar in size to a DVD. The device will also be able to download and play software.
Check out GameSpot's extensive breakdown of what's known of the Wii U for more on Nintendo's latest console.
How Games Get SMGs Wrong - Loadout Fortnite’s Huge Update Almost Feels Like Fortnite 2 Firearms Expert Reacts To The Order: 1886’s Guns The Game Awards 2023 Recap 12 Minutes Of Ultrawide Avatar: Frontiers Of Pandora Gameplay Fortnite - Rocket Racing Official Launch Trailer Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth - Kiryu's Bucket List Story Trailer Guilty Gear -Strive- Elphelt Valentine Gameplay Starter Guide Devil May Cry: Peak Of Combat | V | Releases on Jan 10. 24 | Showcase Brief #2 The Best Game Awards 2023 Trailers Every Reveal at The Game Awards 2023 in 21 Minutes FINAL FANTASY XVI | DLC Trailer
Please enter your date of birth to view this video
By clicking 'enter', you agree to GameSpot's
Terms of Use and Privacy Policy
The products discussed here were independently chosen by our editors. GameSpot may get a share of the revenue if you buy anything featured on our site.
Got a news tip or want to contact us directly? Email news@gamespot.com
Join the conversation