Some of the system features that wowed the crowd at the Electronics Entertainment Expo (E3) in Los Angeles include:

• Backward compatibility: The new console plays all games from the current Nintendo GameCubeT generation. But there's more.
• The Secret Weapon: The console also will have downloadable access to 20 years of fan-favorite titles originally released for Nintendo 64, Super Nintendo, and even the Nintendo Entertainment System (all ® and T)
• Easy expansion: A bay for an SD memory card will let gamers expand the internal flash memory.
• The cool look: the new console boast high-quality materials and a smart, compact design, approximately the size of three standard DVD cases stacked together. A variety of prototype colors. It will come with a silver stand that makes the system a welcome, artistic component of any multimedia setup, whether it's displayed vertically or horizontally.
• Two disc formats, one slot: Instead of a tray, a single, innovative self-loading media bay will play both 12-centimeter optical discs used for the new system as well as the Nintendo GameCube disc. Owners will have the option of equipping a small, self-contained attachement to play movies and other DVD content.
• The Specs: The system boast 512 megabytes of internal flash memory, wireless controllers, two USB 2.0 ports and built-in Wi-Fi access. A worldwide network of Nintendo players can gather to compete in a comfortable, inviting environment.
• Revolution's technological heart: A processing chip developed with IBM and code-named "Broadway," and a graphics chip set from ATI code-named "Hollywood," will deliver game experiences not previously possible.
• The Stars: Introduction of a number of new franchise properties will add to the world's richest stable of stars, including Mario, Zelda, Super Smash Bros. Donkey Kong and Metroid.
• Wireless Freedom: A number of Wi-Fi-enabled launch titles are in development that will employ Nintendo's newly announced wireless gaming service, Nintendo® Wi-Fi connection.
• Freedom of Design: A dynamic development architecture equally accommodates both big-budget, high profile game "masterpieces" as well as indie games conceived by individual developers equipped with only a big idea.

"Our next console proves small in size but big on ideas, "says Reggie Fils-Aime, Nintendo of America's executive vice president of sales and marketing. "We're throwing open the doors of gaming to wider audiences, from casual players to hard-core gamers who live for the thrill of defeating an endless army of wireless opponents."

intendo's All-Access Gaming Philosophy covers the spectrum. The next console fits anywhere. It brings together new games and old. It gives people worldwide access through wireless Wi-Fi connections. It opens the world of video games to everyone. Software for the new console will even attract people who don't consider themselves players. Adults, kids, men and women around the world will have access to the most popular video game characters, the best game franchises and the most engaging experiences yet developed - only with Nintendo.

"We will show the world what a next-gen system can be. Revolution marries the strongest heritage of innovation to the future of gaming," says Nintendo President Satoru Iwata. "With backward compatibility and the 'virtual console' concept, the stylish, compact body provides maximum gaming power. It will not only take home entertainment into another dimension by expanding the definition of video games, but it also will give you access to the great history of gaming." --Satoru Iwata.

Source: Nintendo
Tracer: Bloomberg