Rumors surrounding just what the next Nintendo game console would (or should) offer have existed almost as long as the current system.
Launched in 2006, the Nintendo Wii stood out immediately due to its novel motion controller -- an aspect originally mocked by competitors Sony and Microsoft before both released motion control solutions of their own in Move and Kinect, respectively. However, the console was noteworthy for another more dubious reason: it was much less powerful than the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, and didn't even display in high-definition.
If recent insider information is to be trusted, the next Nintendo system will more than make up for the Wii's relative lack of power while maintaining the company's penchant for unique features.
IGN startled many this week with some surprising claims about the forthcoming Nintendo console, codenamed "Cafe." Citing unnamed sources, the gaming site published myriad new information on the system -- from what's under the hood to how much it will cost consumers.
Taking a hint from its success with the distinctive Wii Remote controller, Nintendo is (if the reports are true) intent on shocking everyone all over again with a touchscreen controller.
The currently code-named console might see release as "Stream" -- an obvious allusion to its rumored ability to deliver software directly to the controller.
Perhaps more importantly for gamers weary of another underpowered console from the Japan-based company, the new system will boast a processor that surpasses the PlayStation 3s and a CPU with clocking speeds that breeze past the Xbox 360s hardware. The source also shared that the system would display software in 1080p and that stereoscopic 3D support is a possibility.
Opposite of Nintendo's previous stance on lower-priced hardware, the console could retail for as much as $400 -- the same price the Xbox 360 launched for in 2005. The PlayStation 3 hit stores in 2006 with two variations: a 20GB model for $499, and a 60GB model for $599. The Nintendo Wii launched the same year, retailing at $250.
The system may hit store shelves as early as this fall, which would make Nintendo the first to release a next-gen game console to market. Insiders and analysts have claimed Microsoft and Sony will not have successors to their current offerings ready until 2013 at the earliest.
Many expect Nintendo to officially unveil exactly what it has up its sleeve at this year's Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3). Until then, take this information with a grain of salt. (Via IGN)
Does the next Nintendo console sound too good to be true? What do you think about the rumored touchscreen controllers? Let us know in the comment section.
[UPDATE]: Nintendo has issued a new statement confirming that its next home gaming console will be playable at this year's E3 and should see release sometime in 2012.
