Nintendo advises Wii U gift givers to update before wrapping

A recent tweet from Nintendo of America suggests that those buying the Wii U as a gift should download the console's required day-one update before giving the present away.

Posted on Dec. 21, the tweet reads: "Giving Wii U as a gift? Pro-tip: Perform system updates before wrapping so it's good to go as soon as it's opened!"

The update, which can take anywhere from an hour to two to download and install, enables the Wii U's online functionality, including the eShop, online gameplay, the Miiverse and Wii backwards compatibility. Interrupting the update can brick the console.

Anyone who receives the Wii U pre-patch will still be able to play games, although without online options. Read our guide to the Wii U here.