Nintendo Unveils Redesigned Wii U Controller, Announces Miiverse

Nintendo kicked off E3 2012 with a pre-recorded E3 show that highlighted the newly named “Wii U Game pad” and many of the new features of the Wii U and its unique controller.

Satoru Iwata, President of Nintendo, started the pre-E3 show by discussing Nintendo’s philosophy: “Creating something unique.” Nintendo has certainly created something unique with the Wii U Game Pad.

The Wii U Game Pad has a new look, as you can see in the above image. It now has dual analog sicks in place of the circle pads the controller debuted with at E3 2011. The analog sticks can be pushed down, similar to the L3 and R3 buttons on the PlayStation 3 controller.

The Game Pad also features an NFC Reader/Writer, which users can place cards or figures on top of. It’s unclear what exactly the NFC Reader/Writer can do, but sounds similar to the AR Card reader for the Nintendo 3DS. There’s also a TV Control button to allow the Game Pad to work like a universal remote. Users will be able to control their TV via the Game Pad.

Nintendo is not saying to much right now about the touchscreen, but says more features will be announced during their E3 press conference Tuesday morning.

Iwata also announced Miiverse, which is Nintendo’s new network communication system that will launch with the Wii U. The online service will work similarly to Xbox Live and the PlayStation Network.

Miiverse can be accessed on other platforms as well, including the 3DS, PC, Mac, and other internet connected devices.

The Game Pad will allow users to get the most out of Miiverse. Users can set up the Game Pad for video chat, and handwritten text messages with the Game Pad’s stylus. The Game Pad can also grab screen shots which can be uploaded via Miiverse.

Remember to check out Nintendo’s E3 press conference this Tuesday to find out more information on the Wii U, Miiverse, and the newest games coming to the Wii U.