The latest issue of Nintendo Gamer magazine contains the first details on the Wii U version of Assassin’s Creed 3, specifically how Ubisoft intends to utilize the unique aspects of the Wii U’s touchscreen controller.
The most obvious utilization of the Wii U controller in Assassin’s Creed 3 is that it will act as a persistent on-screen map for navigation, presumably doing away with the mini-map on the game’s HUD. In addition to basic map functions, the controller will also serve as a “link” to the “Animus”, allowing the player to access information (character biographies, landmark data, etc.) on the controller’s screen instead of having to pause gameplay to read the pop-up information.
There was also a mention of using the Wii U controller as an alternative view for Eagle Vision, where the player would control the camera view by using the controller’s accelerometer.
Perhaps the most helpful use for the controller’s touchscreen will occur when Connor enters into combat. During combat, the touchscreen can be used to make quick weapon selections and change from dual-wielding to single weapon combat with a simple touchscreen input.
It certainly sounds as if Ubisoft has given some thought into how to utilize the Wii U controller, however, it remains to be seen if these type of differences in multiplatform titles will convince gamers to pick up the Wii U version instead of grabbing a copy for the PS3 or Xbox 360.
Source: NintenGen