wii

The 404 1,162: Where we protect our necks (podcast)

Questions answered on today's episode of The 404 Show:

- What's the point of having an LCD screen and buttons on my credit card?

- What comes in the Nintendo Wii U box, why do people love unboxing videos so much, and why does my brain feel like it's being massaged? Side note: ASMR Subreddit

- What's the history of Goatse.cx and how can I use it to ruin everyone's day?

- How can I sucker someone into giving me free money for the holidays?… Read more

Xbox 360 shines bright in otherwise dismal game market

The Xbox 360 continues to thrive in a market that's seen better days.

For the 15th month in the row, Microsoft's game console was the top-selling hardware platform, according to the latest video game stats from NPD group (not available on the Web, unfortunately).

In October, Microsoft sold 270,000 Xbox 360 units, more than any other gaming console. That number gave the company a 56 percent share of all console sales in the U.S. It also marked the 20th month in a row that the Xbox captured more than 40 percent of all U.S. sales.… Read more

See the Wii U unboxed

November 18 marks the release of the first new home console in six years. The Nintendo Wii U promises a brand new gaming experience with the use of an innovative tablet controller.

So what's in the box? Tune in to see what's packed inside the Wii U Deluxe Set that goes for $350. Keep it here for a full review of the console closer to launch.

Microsoft's Xbox-Surface tablet: What could it be?

Microsoft apparently has a gaming tablet complete with Xbox branding on the way in the near future, perhaps to coincide with the release of the next-generation Xbox. In a year full of tablets of all shapes, prices, and functions, what does this mean? What can we hope for? What are the pitfalls? Here's what immediately comes to mind.… Read more

Wii U kiosks coming to retailers nationwide

Nintendo has held fast to the idea that when gamers try out the Wii U, they will "get it." The Mario maker is giving gamers just that opportunity prelaunch, as the company is now beginning to roll out interactive Wii U kiosks in more than 5,000 retailers across the United States.

Gamers can find a Wii U demo station at a handful of retailers, including Target, Best Buy, GameStop, Walmart, and Toys 'R' Us. Kiosk content will vary by location; some will allow gamers to pick up a GamePad and play titles, while others will only feature … Read more

iPad Mini, 4th-gen iPad reviews

While CNET's New York office works to get power back after the storm, we're bringing you the Update show from our San Francisco office. Wednesday's top tech stories include:

- Apple judgement day: Read CNET's reviews of the iPad Mini and the latest full-size iPad. The Wi-Fi versions of the Mini and updated iPad arrive in stores on Friday.

- Give 4G connection to an iPod Touch with a $99 Freedom Pop sleeve.

- If you're buying the deluxe Wii U game console bundle, Nintendo has a perk for downloading games: 10% of every dollar … Read more

Wii U 'deluxe' promotion aims to boost game downloads

If you're willing to invest in new games for your long-awaited Wii U home console, a Nintendo promotion will grant you an extra $5 for every $50 you spend.

The Wii U, due to go on sale starting November 18, will come in two bundles: a $299 basic set and a $349 deluxe set that comes with additional accessories and the Nintendo Land game disc.

If you purchase the more-expensive bundle, you can use the promotion to earn points when purchasing downloadable games. These points can then be converted into discounts and will accumulate until the end of 2014. … Read more

With the Wii U Nintendo is now an 'entertainment company.' Again.

Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime stopped by CNET's New York office on Thursday to talk about the company's upcoming console launch, the Wii U. The system marks the first new home gaming hardware introduced to the U.S. market in six years.

The Wii U also represents a major shift in strategy for Nintendo, deviating from the strict games-only design of previous systems. The Wii U will not only be just for playing games, but also controlling your TV and discovering and streaming other content from the Internet.… Read more

Get prepared for Windows 8

Thursday's CNET Update prepares for a new era:

Windows 8 arrives at 12:01 a.m. local time Friday -- are you ready? CNET has everything you need to prepare for the new system, including a buying guide, as well as tips and tricks to navigating the new interface.

Microsoft's Surface RT tablet also arrives Friday, but Surface is just the start of a new line of devices from Microsoft. CEO Steve Ballmer has said Microsoft will build more devices under its name. So maybe we'll see a Surface Mini someday, or even a Microsoft Phone.

Google … Read more