The Wii U takes Nintendo into the modern gaming era, with high-definition output, online multiplayer and social networking. Like its predecessor, the Wii U aims to revolutionise the way we play, with its unique controller boasting an integrated touchscreen together with the typical buttons and directional controls. The totally new look is also inviting – the overall design is sleek, particularly the black premium model.

Both the touchscreen gamepad and the conventional controls avoid industry-standard layout, with the thumbstick positioned above the input buttons rather than below.

The controller is also equipped with a large touchscreen that can be operated using a stylus pen or fingers. Other features include motion sensors, gyroscopes, volume buttons, IR, built-in speakers, and rumble features for a more realistic gaming experience.

On the downside, the console suffers from a pitifully small amount of storage – 8GB or 32GB depending on model. External storage can be used, but this comes at an added cost.

Miiverse, an inbuilt service, provides quirky ways to interact with friends in a warmer and more inviting manner than Xbox or PS3’s social services. It’s more of a media hub than pure games console, with the gamepad doubling as a hybrid remote control and second screen. Built-in Netflix, LoveFilm and You Tube apps embrace the digital era.

More importantly, the launch line-up is remarkably strong, with a mix of titles that will appeal to Nintendo’s mainstream audience and the core gamer the company aims to win back.

The Wii U is not a perfect console – navigation is sluggish and this issue needs to be addressed. However, it’s a definite improvement on its predecessor. If Nintendo can iron out the wrinkles, there’s no reason the Wii U can’t be another massive success.

Jesmond Darmanin is a technology enthusiast who has his own blog at www.itnewsblog.com.