You can transfer software from the DSi to the 3DS. I've done it. It's under system transfer in the options on the 3DS, and also you can update the DSi for it as well.

I'd imagine a similar system will occur for the WiiU, but we shall see. I sincerely doubt they'll tie all games to each system, rather, a 'cloud' system like Valve, where everything is tied to a name, instead. Nintendo seem to be addressing people's complaints, such as poor online, lack of 3rd party support, lack of HD graphics etc., but perhaps too late. It all comes down to how Nintendo want to go next gen.

Considering the way it was implemented for 3DS, I fully expect us to be able to transfer games from one Wii U to another.

Considering the steps Nintendo has been taking recently to improve their online infrastructure, I expect Wii U owners to be able to do this without the first Wii U being present -- in other words, through the use of online accounts, in case the first console is accidentally smashed with a sledge hammer or something.

However, I'm not getting my hopes up for the ability to transfer games downloaded on Wii to a new Wii U. ...That's why I haven't bought any VC or WiiWare games in a while.

1. The downloaded software locked to a single console was for the 3DS, not the Wii U.

2. We already know that Nintendo will have an account based system for Wii U so there is no need to lock games to a system but rather an account.

3. Individual DSi to 3DS downloadable game transfers is available.

4. 3DS to 3DS transfers are also available but it transfers the entire 3DS content at once (can't transfer just a single game)


With all this in mind, you can be certain that downloadable content on Wii U can be moved to a new Wii U if needed.

Dengle, they have a means for DSi to 3DS. Why wouldn't they have one for Wii to Wii U?

If they addressed it with DSi -> 3DS, then they surely will with Wii -> U

Nintendo has already said that there will be an update that will let you transfer Wii downloads to the Wii U, and there will be Nintendo Network accounts, so the downloads wont be tied to hardware.

This is wrong.

You can move your digital library to the new machine.

Nintendo does this for broken systems as well as DSi to 3DS.

Just call them and have your serial numbers handy for broken systems. For DSi to 3DS, its built-in to the 3DS and there is an app to download on DSi.

However, hopefully they'll fix this and tie it to your new Nintendo Network ID vs your machine ID. It would just be simplier.

would you be so kind as to point me in the general direction of the source on this?

edit: NVM

http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/26/nintendo-officially-announces-nintendo-network-promises-persona/

http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/wii-u-getting-user-accounts-as-part-of-nintendo-network/
http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-01-27-nintendo-network-for-wii-u-and-3ds-revealed

damn, you're quick. Was hoping to save you the trouble

im sorry, but why the hell did you DL SO many games, knowing that you couldnt transfer them later?? Makes no sense to me