Nintendo has just announced that its ever popular Wii console will now be $50 cheaper over in the US. Both the PS3 and Xbox 360 have announced price cuts recently, and this news has been widely rumoured in recent weeks. No news on the local front as of yet.

According to the release issued on Nintendo’s website, the Wii will be available for US $199 and will still include a motion sensing Wii Remote controller, Nunchuk controller and Wii Sports software.

In addition to the price cut, Nintendo USA is expecting big things to come this season due to various key game releases. The two titles expected to sell well this season are Wii Fit Plus, which is set for release on 4 October and New Super Mario Bros Wii, set to hit shelves on 15 November.

“Wii has reached more video game players than any game system before because it attracts everyone—both men and women, and people of all ages,” said Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America’s executive vice president of sales and marketing.

“Our research shows there are 50 million Americans thinking about becoming gamers, and this more affordable price point and our vast array of new software mean many of them can now make the leap and find experiences that appeal to them, whatever their tastes or level of gaming experience.”