Nintendo launched its newest console—Wii U—Nov. 18, and although the much-hyped TVii isn’t available yet, the Wii U will offer streaming via Hulu Plus. And streaming on the $350 Wii U won’t simply mirror what viewers already get from their PCs, laptops, smartphones or Blu-ray players. When using Hulu Plus on the new Nintendo console, gamers will be able to interactively use the system’s GamePad to enhance their viewing experience. While watching a show on the big screen, the Wii U’s GamePad will display all sorts of information related to the show or episode. Users can also use the GamePad to queue up another episode to start on the big screen. Then, the user can turn back to the GamePad to watch the previous show, simply by tapping an icon on the bottom of the touch screen.

Although Wii U owners will need to subscribe to Hulu Plus for $8 a month to utilize features and content, Hulu is offering the chance to try it out first with a week’s free trial subscription. In related news, Nintendo has promised that the Tvii service, as well as Netflix, Youtube and Amazon Instant Video will be available through the Wii U within the next few weeks.

“The value of Wii U goes well beyond day one,” Reggie Fils-Aime, Nintendo’s North America president, said in a statement. “Nintendo will be enhancing the Wii U experience with continuous updates and new services for Wii U owners.”

Samantha Lile

Samantha Lile is a 2002 Missouri State University graduate of journalism and mass media. She has served as a reporter and editor for various newspapers throughout her journalism career. She made the leap into writing full-time after working for a major financial institution since 2000.

Because of her banking background, Samantha is knowledgeable in finance reporting, but is also strong in commentaries, personal profiles, youth studies, horticulture, history and entertainment-related works.

Samantha lives in Ozark, Mo. with her husband of nine years, four dogs and two cats.

More Posts