During the hour-long press conference Nintendo showed how Wii U blends game play between the Wii U GamePad controller and the TV screen. Loveable Nintendo characters such as Mario and Zelda were seen jumping between the TV game play and the handheld Wii U console. This isn't the first time we've seen the Wii U console (), but it was the most complete reveal yet of the device that included titles and Nintendo's launch strategy. Nintendo says the Wii U will ship in time for the holidays.

Wii U Takes E3 Center Stage

For those unfamiliar with the Wii U, the console features a DS-like touchscreen controller combined with the motion-sensitive game play - which made the Wii famous with the Wii Remote - plus streaming media support from partners Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, and Amazon Video. And if that were not enough, the Wii U will also has social features for a more connected gaming experience between players.

Clearly Nintendo is feeling the heat to compete with Microsoft Xbox media hub strategy and Apple and its iPad app-based game play. Nintendo has lost nearly 50 percent of its market value over the past year as gamers have shifted interest to online games and iOS and Android platform based games.

Unique, Yes! Game Changer for Nintendo? Maybe!