First impressions: Nintendo TVii
Nintendo has been quite bold in its assessment of Nintendo TVii, the television-focused app tied to its Wii U video game console.
"You'll never look at your TV the same way again," boasted Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime when the service launched last week, roughly a month after the console's global debut.
Like the console, Nintendo TVii presents a lot of promise and possibilities, but could use some more time and polish before spurring a revolution in TV watching that Nintendo suggests.
The service is automatically added to the Wii U, so no additional downloads are necessary. Simply look for the red icon resembling a TV in the lower half of the GamePad touchscreen.
Nintendo TVii then enters a simple set-up phase where you can select favorite TV shows, movies and sports teams. Only the NFL, NBA, college football and basketball were included, but it's likely choices change based on what leagues are active.
The main menu springs up to show Favorites, TV, Movies, Sports and Search. Television and movie selections seem to integrate well with all options available on TVii. For movies, each film has a brief plot description, a list of cast members and, in some cases, a Wikipedia page for extra background. TV series get the same details, plus an episode guide.
When you want to watch a movie or TV show, you can pick the channel and immediately start viewing. Some episodes and movies will offer the option to rent through Amazon Instant Video or stream via Hulu.
The TV option adds a channel guide, so you can easily scroll through programs while friends or family watch the television.
For Sports, you will see scores from various leagues such as NFL, with the option to follow play-by-play as well as review stats.
TVii is also very social, using a TV Tag system to let users chat about films, TV shows or sporting events. For example, while watching Sunday's NFL game between the Redskins and Eagles, an update for each play would appear on the GamePad, with the option to like or dislike and comments. The system is tied to Facebook and Twitter and Nintendo's internal MiiVerse, so updates are automatically distributed to all social networks.
Overall, TVii is a fascinating service, but it feels incomplete. TiVo is expected to launch early next year, so owners can record and replay TV programming. Hopefully, the DVR options expand to related cable services. Netflix also debuts in 2013.
Sports favorites are limited to only scores, but no additional information such as team schedule, rosters or related news. Also, game updates are slow compared to apps that often reflect changes immediately after they happen.
Nintendo TVii shares a lot in common with the Wii U. Both are fresh approaches in media consumption and video games that will require time before users realize their maximum potential. There's a lot to appreciate with TVii, but it's too soon to gauge its impact.