Nintendo Channel Updated with New Features and Better Video

Nintendo released an update for the Nintendo Channel today with several new features including a redesigned layout, support for higher-quality streaming video, an improved recommendation system, and a new section for game records. As before, you will need to consent to send anonymous game statistics to Nintendo before you can use the channel.

The new layout improves the channel's navigation and makes it easier to access the channel's various features, through a new bar along the bottom of the main screen. The streaming video now supports two quality settings, Normal and High. When the channel is started for the first time, you're asked to select one or the other, and it includes sample videos so you can determine which setting your Internet connection can handle. From my tests, I was able to stream High quality video with no issues using a wireless connection to my router in the next room.

The game recommendation system has been improved to show everyone's aggregate thoughts on a game, which are averaged out and awarded a medal (bronze, silver, gold, or platinum) if the consensus is good enough. You can also see detailed information on the game's rankings, including whether the game is best enjoyed alone or with friends, or if the game is more suited to a casual or hardcore gamer.

Finally, the channel now offers a way to view all the game play data that has been collecting automatically on your Wii Message Board since day one. A quick calculation of my own totals reveals that my Wii has been played a grand total of 983 hours and 32 minutes (or roughly 1.3 months). This includes all Channels, WiiWare and Virtual Console games, and of course the time your family and friends have used the console. Who's ready to beat that high score?