Wii U Virtual Console Feature Recap

The Wii U is getting its own Virtual Console service this Spring, of which Nintendo president, Satoru Iwata, announced details this morning via a Nintendo Direct presentation. Here’s a recap of features for the Wii U Virtual Console:

• Coming this spring.
• Wii U Virtual Console games will be separate from Wii.
• NES and SNES games to be available initially. GBA coming as well.
• Play on Wii U GamePad without TV.
• Discount prices if you already own these games on Wii.
• Transfer Wii versions to Wii U to avail discounts.
• NES prices: $4.99 – $5.99 | SNES prices: $7.99 – $8.99
• Discount prices: NES prices: $1.00 | SNES prices: $1.50
• Will allow for fully customizable button layout on Wii U.
• Miiverse implementation for Virtual Console titles.

Additionally, a Virtual Console trial campaign is kicking off this month to celebrate the Famicom’s 30th anniversary. One new Virtual Console title will be made available each month, starting this month, and lasting until July. The following titles will be available:

• January – Balloon Fight
• February – F-Zero
• March – Punch Out! Featuring Mr. Dream
• April – Kirby’s Adventure
• May – Super Metroid
• June – Yoshi
• July – Donkey Kong

Each title will be available for $0.30 for 30 days. After the campaign is over, these titles will return to their normal price. If you own these games on the Wii, you’ll still be able to buy them at a discount. The January title, Balloon Fight, is available now.