Yesterday’s confirmation that the Wii will be getting Netflix streaming via disc this Spring solidified the need for movie watching on your console. But one thing stuck out in my mind as I read the press release — it still can’t play a DVD movie. While Wii games are all DVD format and movie playback is only limited by software, it’s baffling why Nintendo has chosen to not add this feature to their system.
It could be due to non HD output formats of the system. You can get a better DVD player for pennies compared to the cost of the Wii these days, so why would anyone need it? It could also be due to Nintendo being pig-headed about their console and not giving in to criticism. I think from sales figures, it’s obvious that the lack of DVD movie playback isn’t hurting the system. However, Netflix streaming may not bolster sales either. But it still begs the question: why bring Netflix streaming but no DVD movie playback?
I think it’s safe to assume that most people looking for Netflix streaming currently are tech fans who most likely have a better unit for streaming that can provide high definition as well. Unless Nintendo goes balls out promoting this, I have a feeling it’ll fall by the wayside and just be another check off the list of features on the back of the box.
Twisted Gamer Radio RSS Feed
This will actually work for me. I have a Wii in the second bedroom of my house. Perfect for the 1 or 2 times a year that company actually stays here, they can stream movies if they want.
Remember when people bought the PS2 over the Dreamcast…some just because of the DVD feature.. wii not able to play dvds still wtf
Wii is completely capable of playing DVD movies through software as stated in the article. Non-HD has nothing to do with this. However, to make this work you need to mod your system with either hardware or software. Nintendo just needs to release a “channel” to do this. It’s totally feasible.
that is dumb that nintendo did not put dvd playback in the wii. like really c’mon i see dvd players selling for $30 some even less. granted they are not the best but at least its still an option of having. if nintendo didnt want any play back cause the lack of hd then why put a game consolse that doesnt play hd. that is just dumb. im not saying the wii sucks. its not a console that i would like to get but it does seem fun. so i am not bashing the wii. im just saying no dvd playback for whatever the reason is was a dumb on nintendos part.