It seems as if Nintendo is unable to accept the fact that some gamers want to use their systems for more than just what the Big N allows.
For the dozenth or so time, Nintendo has released firmware updates for both the Wii and DSi that are solely meant to block modding and flash cards, respectively. Here are the official release notes:
Wii Menu 4.3
Unauthorized Modifications
Because unauthorized channels or firmware may impair game play or the Wii console, updating to Wii Menu version 4.3 will check for and automatically remove such unauthorized files. In addition, there are some behind the scenes enhancements that do not affect any prominently-used features or menus but will improve system performance.
Nintendo DSi Menu Ver 1.4.1U
This update provides behind-the-scenes improvements to system performance.
Only the Wii update notes are clear about the true nature of the changes, but there have been many confirmed reports of certain flash cards no longer working on the DSi, as well. With prices about to drop for the DSi, a new crowd of gamers may finally rid themselves of their DS Lites and level up to the dual camera system, and this flash card firmware update came very close to the September 12th price decrease. Well played, Big N.
I personally have been using the homebrew channel on my Wii legitimately for the past couple of years, and although I do understand the fear of piracy, I think it's interesting that Apple was forced earlier this year to allow jailbreaking while Nintendo continues to fight on a fairly regular basis to give hackers and modders something else to work around.
One of the largest consumer groups playing the Wii are parents and young children, who have neither the know-how or the drive to hack their consoles, so what exactly is Nintendo getting at? They definitely haven't been losing any money lately, so the constant updates to block modders has always seemed a bit harsh in my mind.
What do you think? Are all you Ranters tired of that bright blue light pulsing by your TV, signaling yet another firmware update, as you try to sleep? I know I am.