We're thrilled to announce the return of GamesBeat Next, hosted in San Francisco this October, where we will explore the theme of "Playing the Edge." Apply to speak here and learn more about sponsorship opportunities here. At the event, we will also announce 25 top game startups as the 2024 Game Changers. Apply or nominate today!


Check out all of GamesBeat’s Nintendo Wii U launch coverage.

Reviewers found a lot to love about the Wii U. They praised its high-definition graphics as well as the GamePad, which is comfortable enough for young children. As GamesBeat’s Jeff Grubb reported, gamers rushed to scoop up every available console.

The major complaint they found was the lack of battery life, which typically only lasts three to five hours. Read our round-up of the first reviews here.

Event

GamesBeat Next 2023

Join the GamesBeat community in San Francisco this October 24-25. You’ll hear from the brightest minds within the gaming industry on latest developments and their take on the future of gaming.


Learn More

But a few reviewers did far more than test out the console and play a round of virtual tennis — they went ahead and took the entire thing apart to expose the logic board. Here’s a snapshot of what they found:

  • The Wii U hardware is similar looking to the larger Wii. Getting inside the chassis isn’t all that different.
  • You’ll need a stack of razor blades to pry off the IHS.
  • It only takes half an hour to tear down the Wii U and put it back together.
  • IFixit’s expert DIY team was able to improve Nintendo’s design by three or four screws and one square nut.

Check out the detailed teardown descriptions of the Wii on iFixit and Anandtech.

[vb_gallery id=577207]

Top image via iFixit 

GamesBeat's creed when covering the game industry is "where passion meets business." What does this mean? We want to tell you how the news matters to you -- not just as a decision-maker at a game studio, but also as a fan of games. Whether you read our articles, listen to our podcasts, or watch our videos, GamesBeat will help you learn about the industry and enjoy engaging with it. Discover our Briefings.