Nintendo has released an update for Wii U which allows owners to play their classic Wii titles on the current generation’s GamePad.
However, when we say it will play the Wii titles this really just means you can display the games you own on the controller’s 6.2inch screen but you will then need to pair with a traditional Wiimote (and nunchuck) to actually enjoy the games because they won’t be compatible with the GamePad’s own control features.
The promise of portable play is made a bit redundant by the fact you’ll have to carry around additional hardware and find a way to prop up your pad just to get your game on with the smaller screen and this appears to be another slightly ill-thought out move by Nintendo, the company which continues to cause a lot of head scratching from its intended consumer base (let’s consider the recently announced 2DS handheld as an example.)
On the plus side, the update also brings Dolby surround sound and external USB keyboard compatibility to the Wii U with the ability to save passwords in the web browser, share screenshots by launching a browser when a game is in progress and also open .pdf files.
To get to-to-date following these steps:
CONNECTING TO WI-FI NETWORK:
(If you’re already connected, proceed to next instructions.)
From the Wii U GamePad with the Menu screen up select System Settings.
Move across with the Left analogue stick and select Internet.
Select the option for Connect to the Internet.
(The Wii U will begin searching for available Wi-Fi networks.)
With available networks found, scroll up or down to find and select your network name.
When prompted enter your password or Network/Wireless key as found on the router and tap OK.
(Wireless/Network keys are case sensitive, so bear this in mind when entering).
If the right network has been chosen and the password entered correctly the Wii U should successfully find the network and connect.
GETTING THE SYSTEM UPDATE:
From the Wii U Menu select System Settings.
The top right hand corner of your menu should tell you the current software version.
Scrolling down with the left analogue stick find System Update and press the A button.
Tap Update to begin the download
(Depending on performance quality of your Wi-Fi connection completion times can vary. You can follow progress in the Download Management section of the System Settings).
Wii U System Update may take some time to complete.
Do not unplug or power off the Wii U console during the download or you’ll have to start it over.
When complete you’ll be able to enjoy all the new features and functional benefits for Wii U!