Gamertell

Nintendo today announced the launch of Wiiware, a system for developers to create original downloadable content for the Wii platform, with the first games expected to be released early 2008.

That’s right, new games, developed specifically for the Wii, unlike the titles on the Virtual Console.

According to the press release, Nintendo is seeking developers of all shapes and sizes, from Sega and Ubisoft right down to smaller independent houses to develop for WiiWare, with a focus on creative titles that take advantage of the Wii’s motion-sensing controller. The games will be available on the Wii Shop Channel and purchased with points, much like the current Virtual Console system. Retailers will be seeking ESRB ratings for the titles, with Nintendo setting price points and checking for bugs or compatibility issues.

This is fantastic news for Nintendo fans, but it doesn’t come as much of a surprise. There has been speculation about Wii-specific downloadable games from the first mention of the Virtual console. Nintendo is clearly setting up this system to compete with the Xbox Live arcade and Playstation Network, especially with their desire to feature shorter, more creative games and their courtship of indie developers.

Read [Newsweek] Via [Kotaku]