A Wii fully functional, or almost, but as big as a keychain. It’s called Nintendo Kawaii and it’s a miniature version of the console that marked an era, selling over 100 million units worldwide.
No disc drive, obviously, but it does play games from the Nintendo digitally and can also be connected to a GameCube controller. This is not an official Nintendo product, but yet another marvel from modding. The project was created by modders Wesk Mods and YveltalGriffin. The first prototypes, sold in very limited quantities, sold out like hotcakes. The good news is that Nintendo Kawaii could be back in stock soon — and this time in quantities large enough to please everyone.
Nintendo Kawaii: Wii Becomes a Keychain
Called Nintendo Kawaii, This miniature version of the console is about the size of a keychain and still runs Wii-era games. The console retains basic functionality despite its small size, and features a CNC-milled aluminum body. Magnetic connectors are used for power, AV support, and controllers. When connected to a custom dock, up to four Gamecube controllers can be used, essential for games like Super Smash Bros.
Unfortunately Kawaii does not support the Wii mote. In other words: you can only play games that support regular controllers. The creators of this tiny console initially put it on sale 30 units for $55which sold out almost immediately. This first batch was intended to test the market, ahead of the official launch planned for the future.
The Challenge to Create the Smallest Wii Ever
Previously, another modder had shrunk the Wii to the size of a deck of cards, but the Nintendo Kawaii represents another step forward in the miniaturization of consoles. Size just 60x60mm. And yes, it really is a keychain too.
Getting to this result was not easy at all. The creation of Nintendo Kawaii was a real engineering challenge. Just think that a passive cooling system was necessary, since it was not possible to install a fan.
