Nintendo launches black Wii in US, packs 2 games, controller in $200 bundle

more images

more images

Nintendo launches dark Wii, expanded bundle in US

NEW YORK — Nintendo Co. is trying to expand U.S. sales of the Wii by throwing in an extra game and its MotionPlus accessory for making the console’s signature motion-sensing wand more precise. The company is also offering a black version of the system as an alternative to the game system’s white casing.

The packages will sell for $200, which is what the Wii, bundled with “Wii Sports” and the wand, currently costs. Nintendo said on Monday that it will add “Wii Sports Resort” and the MotionPlus to the bundle. The new packages and the black Wiis will be available in the U.S. and other markets in the Americas starting Sunday.

Black Wiis have already been available in Japan and Europe, and their U.S. announcement has been expected. Nintendo, based in Japan, did not give specific pricing for the console packages outside the U.S. but said it would be comparable.

The Wii is the world’s most popular video game console, its sales eclipsing both Sony Corp.’s PlayStation 3 and Microsoft Corp.’s Xbox 360. But both Sony and Microsoft are coming out with their versions of motion controllers later this year, potentially challenging the Wii’s popularity.

Reggie Fils-Aime, the president of Nintendo of America, said the company is looking to bring in consumers who’ve been sitting on the fence about buying a Wii. He described the new deal as a “value enhancement” rather than a price cut. “Wii Sports Resort,” which comes with MotionPlus, costs $50, though some retailers offer deals for $40.