http://www.videogamer.com/news/wii_u_gamepad_runs_3-5_hours_on_full_charge.html

This is basically the same amount of battery life as a handheld console.

The controller also takes 2.5 hours to recharge, and you can only recharge using the AC cord provided

(there is no usb recharge):

http://www.wired.com/gamelife/2012/09/trinen/

If you're planning on doing any gaming for extended periods of time, you better hope that there's an AC outlet near your chair/couch.

What do you think?  Is 3-5 hours of battery life for a home console controller enough for you?  Is no USB charging an issue?

Wasn't this already confirmed?

Anyhow, seems fine enough for me, unless they release a Wii U Fire Emblem or legit Pokemon game....

I'm going to have long gaming sessions with those on weekends. XD

Sucks.
So it's not like PS3 where it's easy to play & charge?

We've known this for a while. The 3-5 battery life is kinda disappointing but acceptable.
2.5 hour charge time is NOT acceptable.

If you can charge and play, it's not that big a deal considering you move the controller almost anywhere.

So, 2.5 hours to charge, and then 3 hours only for play. Riiiiiiiighhhhhht.

This is why I like that the 360 controller takes batteries. Every time it dies, I throw them into my charger and put in the freshly charged batteries I keep under the coffee table. BTW I use Sony batteries. lol.

the time to charge the thing is insane 0_o especially given how long it lasts

Not too bad, I guess. As long as you can charge it while playing.