Nintendo finally unveiled more details on its new console!

After being shrouded in agonizing secrecy for months, the Wii U console had its full-fledged coming-out party at the recent Electronic Entertainment Expo in Los Angeles.  Here is the breakdown of the major components of the Wii U System:

1. Analog Sticks

The early prototype of the GamePad shown at last year’s E3 featured Circle Pads similar to that on the Nintendo 3DS,  but the final design replaces them with traditional analog sticks.  Furthermore, each stick can be clicked by pressing straight down on it, allowing it to serve as an additional button.

2. Touch Screen

The big story when it comes to Wii U is the 6.2-inch, 16:9 aspect ratio LCD touch screen on the controller.  It uses resistive touch (rather than captivative touch like on most smart phones) to enable greater precision and the use of an included stylus.

3. Camera

The front-facing camera not only takes photos, but provides the system with video chat capabilities.

4. Stereo Headphone Jack

Compatible with standard headphones, this built-in jack will be especially handy when using the GamePad without relying in the TV screen.

5. Near-Field Communication

This allows the Wii U GamePad to communicate wirelessly with certain objects held above it.  It’s similar to the technology used by the Portal of Power for Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure.

6. Stereo Speakers

Sound comes out of these.

7. Microphone

Sound goes into this.

8. TV Control Button

Using infrared communication, the controller can function as a universal TV remote.

9. Motion Control

An accelerometer, a gyroscope, and a geomagnetic sensor power the robust motion controls of the GamePad.  The controller also boasts a built-in rumble feature.

Along with these great features, some other features have a right to be mentioned, too.

MiiVerse

Miiverse allows you to connect to other players online from the moment you turn on the Wii U console.  You can exchange comments, post screenshots, see what your friends are playing, and much more.  Many games will also include integrated Miiverse content.

Wii U Pro Controller

If you’d feel more comfortable with a traditional controller in your hands, the sleek Wii U Pro Controller is the way to go.  The system can support up to four Pro Controllers at once.

Video Services

Numerous streaming entertainment options – including Netflix, Amazon Instant Video, Youtube, and Hulu – are coming to Wii U.  They’ll be designed to take advantage of the screen on the Wii U GamePad.

More updates are promised to come on the Wii U System!