DS/Wii connectivity on the way

News

Tim Ingham Dec 20 2006, 3:00pm

Nintendo has confirmed that it is developing new software to take advantage of interoperability between DS and Wii – and that it is hopeful of bringing it to UK retail in 2007.

Speaking exclusively to MCV, DS product manager at Nintendo James Honeywell said that a link-up between the two consoles would prove a key factor in pushing sales of both formats.

Last month, websites reported hands-on trials with the first fruits of DS/Wii development, Pokemon Battle Revolution, which is yet to be given a UK release date. But Honeywell confirmed that Nintendo is working on many more cross-platform titles.

“You will definitely see Wii and DS interoperability as soon as we have it finished,” said Honeywell. “We haven’t made any announcements over specific software for connectivity, but there are definitely a number of exciting things in creation which we want to bring to market as soon as possible. We’re hopeful that will be next year.”

Honeywell also took the opportunity to distance DS/Wii connectivity from the bi-console connectivity offered by the platform holders’ rivals, stating that any Wii/DS link-up would continue “Nintendo’s ethos of fun and play”.

“Our competitors might offer connectivity between formats, but it concentrates on media capabilities, rather than the fun and interaction you’ll get when you bring our two consoles together,” he added.

“For example, the connectivity between Xbox 360 and PC is very much based in streaming video and other media. The link-up between Wii and DS will be much more about offering new forms of gameplay, fun and interaction. It will offer yet another new set of experiences for the whole family.”