Nintendo's Wii U is no stranger to head-scratching design choices.
Whether it's the inability to access or transfer Nintendo Network IDs to other consoles, or the lack of an audio port on the Pro Controller, the next-gen system has defied many modern standards introduced by the PS3 and Xbox 360. So, when Nintendo's European eShop refused to sell 18+rated games during the day time, many assumed that it was simply another quirk attributed to the company's lack of experience in the online space.
However, a recent Nintendo press release, reported by Eurogamer (via Kotaku), clarifies the situation.
"Legal age restriction requirements vary across a number of European countries. Since Nintendo of Europe is based in Germany, Nintendo eShop is complying with German youth protection regulation which therefore applies to all our European markets. Under German law, content rated 18+ must be made available only at night."
Germany has a history of strict game censorship. During this generation alone, the nation has banned notable titles such as Dead Rising 1 & 2, and more, so this revelation is not a tremendous surprise.
The Wii U launched in North America on November 18th, followed by the UK on the 30th. Nintendo's next-generation console is available in two flavors: Basic and Deluxe. The $299 Basic version is white and has 8GB of memory, a sensor bar, an adapter, and a HDMI cable. The $349 black Deluxe release sports 32GB of memory, and comes bundled with Nintendo Land, a Gamepad charging cradle and stands for the console and controller.