Nintendo Changes their mind about one time use codes for hardware
Despite Nintendo saying earlier this month that the Wii Speak Channel - bundled with the Wii Speak peripheral in the form of a "Download Ticket" - would not be made available through any other means, it appears they reconsidered that stance, clarifying its new, (slightly) more flexible policy with GameSpot.
"Any consumer who may have misplaced their Wii Download Ticket number for the Wii Speak Channel or require a new number following a Wii exchange may contact their local Nintendo Customer Services department, where they can request a replacement Wii Download Ticket number."
I have never been very keen on the idea of offering one time use codes, and I am GLAD that Nintendo will be allowing customers to transfer their Wii Speak devices down the road. Although... their method leaves much to be desired. I mean, having to actually contact Nintendo to have them replace the code for you is quite cumbersome. Isn't there a way to detect the Wii speak peripheral when it is plugged in and then download the channel then? ( and if it isn't connected, don't allow the use of the channel).
Well, it was shortsighted move, and I am glad that they changed their mind (although it still isn't 100% acceptable).
Via JoyStiq
Wii Update Deletes your Homebrew Channel
Well, if you want to install the Homebrew Channel ( or have it installed) don't upgrade! The recent Wii System Update (3.4) actively goes out and kills your installed homebrew stuff. It also will patch the current way of getting the homebrew channel ( via the Twilight hack).
I just installed the homebrew channel the other night, and I am enjoying all of the legit homebrew games that you can download for the Wii. It kinda sucks that Nintendo is cracking down on this now, after letting it go by for quite a while. Granted, the update does bring some functionality ( like USB keyboard support for the Mii channel)l, thats where anything good stops. Here is the bulk of the text for the update:
Message from Nintendo
Wii Menu version 3.4 is now available for your Wii console. To update your Wii Menu to the latest version, please select the Update button at the bottom of the screen or select the System Update option in Wii System Settings.
With this update, Parental Controls have been enhanced, USB keyboard support is available for the Mii Channel, and system functions have been improved.
The Wii User Agreement, which includes the Wii Privacy Policy, has been updated. Because the updated agreement applies to you and your use of the Wii Network Service, you should view the updated version by clicking on the Wii icon located on the lower-left portion of the Wii Channel menu, selecting Wii Settings, accessing the Internet setting, and selecting User Agreements.
You may also view the updated Wii User Agreement online at http://support.nintendo.com
Because unauthorized modifications to save files may impair game play or the Wii console, updating to Wii Menu version 3.4 will also check for and automatically remove such save files.
**Please note: If you've updated your Wii Menu after 11/17/08, you may not need to update again.
Thank you for updating your Wii console!
Nintendo
So remember.. if you want to install homebrew... don't install the 3.4 System Update!
via Gizmodo
The Force Unleashed Wii Accesory you might need
I saw this and thought it was pretty neat (And it shows how much people are trying to bilk for accessories for your Wii). So Thrustmaster is coming out with a 2 pack of LED packed lightsabers that will tie in with The Force Unleashed. Now, these are pretty awesome, but I don't think that adding an extension to your wiimote is that bright of an idea. There is already a recipe for disaster every time you start getting crazy playing Wii games, and this might end up with more injuries (which I always find funny). This will make the "testicle two-step" a even more required part when playing the Wii with friends! I mean, when you are swinging your lightsaber around in the Force Unleashed, do you really need something on the end of your wii mote to potentially destroy things with?
The other thing I saw was that Thrustmaster also came out with a gun add-on that looks pretty awesome. I played the Link's Crossbow game with the included zapper and found it very hard after a while to shoot. Something like this would make it more of a point and click experience. That plus more of a natural one handed approach would be nice as well.
via Engadget