Wii U
The Wii U is the most recent home console by Nintendo, and the successor to the Wii. The Wii U is Nintendo's sixth home console and is capable of displaying high-resolution graphics similar to the Xbox 360 and the PS3.
The Wii U comes with a new type of controller, the Wii U GamePad. This new controller's main features are the embedded touchscreen and its ability to display games featuring Off-TV Play Support, after the television has turned off.
The Wii U, aside from its unique controller, will also have a secondary controller (sold separately) called the Wii U Pro Controller. This controller features the same button layout as the gamepad, but on a more compact design with no touchscreen, for use by the more "core gamers."
Due to the Wii U's processing power and overall performance, the Wii U will hold the place of the world's most powerful console once it launches, with capabilities surpassing that of the Xbox360 and PS3.
Backwards Compatibility
The Wii U has backwards compatibility with all Wii games. It is not, however, capable of playing Gamecube games or allowing the use of Gamecube peripherals.
However, many games from the Gamecube and earlier consoles will be available for purchase as virtual console titles.
Pikmin 3
In 2007, Miyamoto first hinted about the possibility of Pikmin 3. Finally, after 5 years of showing nothing, Pikmin 3's Wii U adaption (formerly a Wii title) was shown at E3 2012. It was the first official game ever announced for the Wii U. Pikmin 3 was showcased to be able to display the Wii U's primary functionalities, from displayed stunning HD graphics, from enhanced gameplay options and mechanics, even to the use of the gamepad's addition screen.
Pikmin 3 is currently set to be released in the Spring of 2013 in Japan, while only listed as "Launch Window" for the other regions.