According to well-placed internet reports, Nintendo has a megaton up its sleeve for E3 this year, with plans to unveil its Wii successor. Citing ‘multiple sources,’ GameInformer reports that Nintendo is moving to HD with the new console. What’s more, is that according to IGN, the new platform is “significantly” more powerful than PS3 and Xbox 360 in terms of system specs, further stating that Nintendo plans on ‘recapturing’ the hardcore market.

The timing seems right. Wii momentum, while still fairly strong, is slowing down. There’s also the obvious fact that a significant number of people have adopted HD-ready television sets since the Wii’s debut.

Reportedly, Nintendo’s new hardware will launch sometime in late 2012, and the company is already collaborating with external publishers to ensure a strong launch.

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