The Innovative Wii U Controller

At E3, the most intriguing thing we saw during the Nintendo press conference was the reveal of the Wii U controller (and a few glimpses of the Wii U itself).

A tablet style design – actually reminds me of the Game Gear from years ago – the 6.2 inch touch-screen controller sports analog sticks, d-pad, buttons, shoulder buttons, and triggers. Nintendo is trying to appeal for more experienced gamers, since they already appeal to the new gamers in the market.

The Wii U controller also has a front facing camera, microphone (for chatting), tilting, turning, and motion controls, and can work as an inventory screen for games.

That’s the awesome part. It breaks up your screen so you can have your Madden plays in front of you while watching the game on the big screen. OR you can continue your Wii U game on your controller while someone watches TV. You can weigh yourself on the Wii Fit board without flipping on a TV, and can video chat with friends. You can share videos, pictures, and so much more, making this one of the most innovative designs seen during E3.

Don’t get confused, though: it is a not a portable gaming device. It is not a mimic or additive to the DS, nor is it its own console. It is a controller, and functions by using the Wii U console, so it is not independent.

Right now, Nintendo hasn’t confirmed how many Wii U tablet controllers the console will support. Rumors are that the games being developed will only allow for one,  but this seems a waste considering the awesomeness and potential of the controller (I, for one, want to use it as a sniper scope for better accuracy; that looks awesome).

Check out the trailer that Nintendo used to announce the Wii U controller at E3.

We’ll keep you posted as more info comes in.