Japan to get Wii with DVD player

Nintendo has confirmed to GamesIndustry.biz that there are plans to launch a new version of the Wii featuring DVD playback functionality in Japan.

The Wii's original spec sheet said the console would come with a DVD player as standard, but Nintendo later elected not to include the feature - observing standalone players are now widely available at low cost.

However, an article in the latest issue of Edge magazine states that an "enhanced" Wii with DVD function is due out in Japan some time next year.

Speaking to GI.biz, a spokesperson declined to comment on when the new machine will hit the shops, but did confirm, "There are currently plans to release a version of Wii in Japan featuring DVD playback."

He added, "There are currently no plans to bring this model to Europe or the US."

The Edge article also claimed that CNN has already signed up to provide content for the Wii news channel in the US and Japan - but according to Nintendo's spokesperson, "We have currently announced no deals with any news or weather service provider for Wii channels."

He also dismissed suggestions that Nintendo originally intended to price the Wii at GBP 150 / USD 200, but was forced to increase the price to GBP 180 / USD 250 following pressure from retail chains concerned about profit margins.

"Price is set by retailers, not by manufacturers, so there is no truth in this assumption," the spokesperson said.