Nintendo today joined the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 by launching an online download service that lets gamers download budget-priced games from large and small companies alike.
Called WiiWare, Nintendo’s new download service is available through a new section on the Wii Shop Channel. For a complete list of the initial games available on WiiWare, click here.
Nintendo’s WiiWare service is nothing new to the so-called “next gen” consoles, as the Xbox 360 has Xbox Live Arcade, and the PlayStation 3 has the PlayStation Store. The service is new to Nintendo, however, because its Wii Virtual Consoles has focused on games from older systems rather than fresh experiences.
WiiWare games can be downloaded by going to the WiiWare section of the Wii Shop Channel, finding the game you want, redeeming Wii Points and starting the download. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets.
Much like Nintendo posts new games to its Virtual Console on Mondays, WiiWare games will also be uploaded every Monday.