Ok, we all know by now that a Metroid WiiWare channel has been released - for US Wii owners anyway.
But I haven't seen much debate over the true meaning of this. Channels are obviously something that Ninty will love to promote, as it falls into line with the software architecture of the Wii. WiiFit will have a channel, etc. It also gives something a "visual spot" on your TV, when your Wii is booted up.
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The whole point of using a channel is providing a location to collect and display networked information that is collected over time (weather, news, Mii, shopping and other channels). (other channels just provide an interface to run DLC).
It may be Ninty are doing this as a convenient way to promote the upcoming Metroid game - with the channel being thrown away once the game is released.
But I don't believe this is so. (It would have made much more sense to release a "Game Previews" channel, with some Metroid vids if this was the case).
We all know very little has been shown or talked about the game so far - I still suspect there is a major secret being hidden somewhere within the design of the game (the extensive delay and more). Something along the lines of the downloadable content rumours (that spread a while back).
Other options could include some form of community aspect to the title - possibly a high scores/best time ladder. But something like this could be addressed purely from within the game itself.
The advantage of having a channel, is that you know something has happened relating to a game - even when you haven't been playing it.
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Part of this may well be wishful thinking, but I think a lot of this makes perfect sense as well. Either way, I'm a little annoyed having to wait another couple of months to find out (as Metroid is not being released in Europe/Australia for a couple more months at least).
Gesta Non Verba
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