The new system may be more powerful than the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.
UPDATED: Updated with IGN rumor of a pre-announcement and backwards compatibility.
The next Nintendo console may be revealed at E3 this June, if not sooner.
According to Game Informer, multiple sources state that Nintendo will release a new system in late 2012 capable of running games in high definition. While Game Informer says there are conflicting reports as to if the system will be more powerful than the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, Kotaku reports that it will indeed be more powerful than those systems. In addition, sources have told IGN that the unannounced console, "is significantly more powerful" than the 360 and PS3 and "that Nintendo's intent is to recapture the hardcore market." Game Informer's sources also mention that Nintendo has already begun showing off the new hardware to third party developers in order to gain their support.
It is not known if the rumored new system will carry the Wii brand, what the online infrastructure may be, or if it will feature motion controls like its predecessors. However, IGN is reporting that the system is "fully" backwards compatible with Wii software. The anonymous sources told Game Informer that the system will not be a gimmick and that Nintendo "did something right."
NWR contacted Nintendo about the rumors, and the response we received was that "Nintendo does not comment on rumors or speculation."
The wait for information may not be long; IGN is reporting Nintendo may have a pre-announcement planned for later this month.