Wii Fit U to launch as free download, fully unlocked with $20 accessory purchase

In a rather surprising move, Nintendo is making Wii Fit U free--for a month.

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In a rather surprising move, Nintendo is making Wii Fit U free--for a month. Starting November 1st, Wii U owners can download a complete version of the game. Of course, in order for it to work, you'll already need to own a Wii Balance Board. "With this special offer, Nintendo is making it easier than ever for families to get active and stay active, making now the perfect time to upgrade to Wii U," Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime said in the announcement.

The full game trial will be available to download until January 31, 2014. It will be fully functional for a month from the day it's first played. If you want to play longer than a month, you'll need to buy the Fit Meter. This $20 accessory will also be available on November 1st, and functions as an advanced pedometer. Not only does it record how many steps you take, but it will also take into account the intensity of those steps. The Fit Meter will be able to detect if you are running instead of walking, and can also measure altitude, rewarding climbing stairs or walking uphill.

If this free promo sounds too complicated for you, you'll also be able to buy Wii Fit U as a packaged game on December 13. The full game download will also be available from the eShop on February 1--but you'll still need to pick up a Wii Balance Board.

Andrew Yoon was previously a games journalist creating content at Shacknews.

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