The Wii U will release in Japan on December 8, 2012, Nintendo announced during their livestream last night. While we're still waiting for the launch details for the U.S. and UK, which are coming soon, Japan's Nintendo Direct event did reveal a bunch of information relevant to other regions as well.
First off, the Wii U will be offered in two sets for consumers to choose from based on how they like to play. The "Premium Set" will cost 31,500 yen (including tax), or 30,000 yen excluding tax. This model includes the Black Wii U console with 32GB of memory; a black GamePad and Stylus; a WIi U GamePad cradle and stand; and a Wii U console stand which includes the HDMI Cable, and AC adapters for the console and GamePad.
The second model is the Wii U "Basic Set" which will retail for 26,250 yen (including tax), or 25,000 yen excluding tax. The console itself is available only in white and comes with 8GB of memory. It also includes a white GamePad and Stylus, as well as the HDMI cable, and AC adapters.
As for the system's specs, the Wii U will have 1GB of system memory and 1GB of game memory for a total of 2GB. In comparison, the PS3 and Xbox 360 has only 512MB.
Although we're still awaiting U.S. launch details, the Japanese prices are equivalent to $321 for the Basic Set and $385 for the Premium Set. I don't expect the console to actually cost that much though; the Yen is very strong compared to the dollar right now and I believe the basic bundle will cost around $250, with the premium bundle for about $300. The wait for U.S. and UK details won't be much longer. Nintendo is holding a press event in New York City today, while presenting a European Nintendo Direct online.
