Nintendo Launches Wii Menu Firmware 4.3

Nintendo has launched a new firmware update for the Wii home console, called Wii Menu 4.3. The company is saying the new version is intended to limit the use of unauthorized files on the console, the ultimate goal being the elimination of the “homebrew” mods that have been developed for the gaming gadget. The new Menu version also adds some performance improvements for good measure.

An official Nintendo announcement accompanying the launch reads: “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.” Of course, disabling unofficial programs and limiting piracy is not the only aim of the move, the maker revealing, “In addition, there are some behind the scenes enhancements that do not affect any prominently-used features or menus but will improve system performance.”

Initial reports coming from homebrew communities are stating that none of the third-party programs that were used to access the Nintendo Wii are usable at the moment with Wii Menu version 4.3. Considering that ever since the launch of the home console, homebrewers and hackers have always managed to breach whatever protections Nintendo created, it is probably just a matter of time before Wii Menu 4.3 is also overcome.

The Japanese giant might be interested in limiting piracy on the Wii but even a new firmware version will do little to eliminate it. Most gamers are interested in titles launched for the platform mainly because of the single player element and Nintendo lacks the multiplayer communities enabled by such services like Xbox Live from Microsoft and the PlayStation Network from Sony.

Those who are truly dedicated to the idea of getting Nintendo videogames for free will just avoid the new firmware update and use older versions until Wii Menu 4.3 is also hacked by the Wii-oriented community.