Nintendo has sent a message to Wii owners urging them to check out Wii U. In a post sent out via WiiConnect24 today, Nintendo explains that players can still use their existing accessories on the new system, but stresses that it’s an entirely new experience.

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“Did you know that you can play nearly all of your existing Wii games on Wii U?” the message asks. “Your Wii controllers and many Wii accessories can also be used with a new Wii U console -- along with any downloaded games, save data, and other info stored in your existing Wii console.”The message continues, explaining that “Wii U is the all-new home console from Nintendo. It’s not just an upgrade -- it’s an entirely new system that will change the way you and your family experience games and entertainment. The second screen on the included Wii U GamePad controller enables never-before-seen ways to play games and enjoy TV. And for the first time ever, you can see Mario and your favorite Nintendo franchises in glorious HD.”Last week, Nintendo president Satoru Iwata said in a financial results briefing that “we have not been able to solidly communicate the product value of Wii U to our consumers yet, which has been a grand challenge for us. Some have the misunderstanding that Wii U is just Wii with a pad for games, and others even consider Wii U GamePad as a peripheral device connectable to Wii. We feel deeply responsible for not having tried hard enough to have consumers understand the product.”For more on Wii U’s ability to appeal to consumers, read our thoughts on its struggle to remain relevant

Andrew Goldfarb is IGN’s news editor. Keep up with pictures of the latest food he’s been eating by following @garfep on Twitter or garfep on IGN.