Nintendo to Celebrate the U.S. Launch of Wii U with Midnight Gathering at Nintendo World

First Wii U consoles go on sale in New York on Nov. 18 with midnight launch event

–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Nintendo:

WHAT:
Consumers will have the chance to be among the first in the world to purchase the Wii U console when the clock strikes midnight on Nov. 18 at Nintendo World in New York’s Rockefeller Plaza. Nintendo of America President and COO Reggie Fils-Aime will be on hand to count down the launch and sell a new Wii U to the first consumer in line. Fans waiting in line will get premium items (while supplies last) during the event. Note that supplies are limited, and systems will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis.

Nintendo is also selling New York-themed T-shirts with Mario’s image at the event. All proceeds from sales of the shirts will be donated to the American Red Cross in support of relief efforts from the effects of Hurricane Sandy.

The new Wii U home console offers entirely new ways for consumers to play games in HD and enjoy their favorite programming. More than 20 games will be available for Wii U at launch, which will be offered in two different colors and configurations. The Basic Set will be offered in white at a suggested retail price of $299.99, while the Deluxe Set, which includes higher storage capacity, additional accessories and the new Nintendo Land video game, will be offered in black at a suggested retail price of $349.99.

More information about Wii U can be found at http://www.nintendo.com/wiiu.

WHO:
Adults, teens, tweens, parents, video game fans and consumers

WHEN:
Saturday, Nov. 17, 2012
Launch event: 6 p.m. – midnight

WHERE:
Nintendo World at Rockefeller Plaza
10 Rockefeller Plaza
New York, NY 10020

VISUALS:

Scores of fans lined up in front of Nintendo World for a chance to be among the first people in the world to purchase the new Wii U console
Nintendo of America President and COO Reggie Fils-Aime welcoming consumers to the Wii U launch event
Attendees joining together for a midnight countdown as the launch approaches
Nintendo of America President and COO Reggie Fils-Aime presenting the first consumer in line with a Wii U
Mii costumed characters

Source: Nintendo PR