Nintendo launched WiiWare, its games-on-demand service for Wii, Tuesday in Japan. With a few clicks, owners of the console can log in to the Wii Shopping Channel and download new games that range in price from $5 to $15. Titles include new entries in the popular Dr. Mario and Final Fantasy series. Nintendo says it sees this type of digital delivery as a way to let new game ideas blossom without the financial risks of producing retail inventory.
The low-risk environment gives developers a chance to flex their creative muscles. WiiWare is Nintendo's answer to rival gamemakers Sony and Microsoft, who offer similar services for their PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 consoles. Nintendo has offered downloadable retro games, like the classic Super Mario Bros., since Wii's launch, but this is its first step into original digitally delivered software.
More information:
http://www.nintendo.com/wii/wiiware
http://www.wired.com/gaming/gamingreviews/news/2008/03/wiiware
More information:
http://www.nintendo.com/wii/wiiware
http://www.wired.com/gaming/gamingreviews/news/2008/03/wiiware