(CNN) -- Gaming in 2012 is going to be a very wild ride, with the introduction of two new consoles, a return to the "Halo" universe and the potential for even more entertainment choices. The PlayStation Vita and the Nintendo Wii U are both expected to hit the shelves, with the Vita hitting North American and European shores in February after a Japanese launch in mid-December. The PS Vita is a handheld console and successor to the PlayStation Portable (PSP) that promises beefier graphics, interactive touchscreens on the front and back, and dual analog sticks much like the PlayStation 3 controllers. Sony is banking on familiar characters in games like "Uncharted: Golden Abyss" and "Little Big Planet" to help draw in customers, while also looking to create unique and immersive games to appeal to the hardcore gamer.
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Vita will hit North American, European shores in February after a Japanese launch
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Later in 2012, Nintendo will be releasing their next generation console called Wii U
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"Final Fantasy XIII-2" returns players to Cocoon in search of Lightning
Nintendo Wii U
Wii U
Critics are concerned about the potential cost, but Nintendo says it's confident the @placeholder will open up a new style of gameplay for the home gamer in the same way that the Wii expanded the customer base for gaming consoles in general.
Sony
Some developers have spoken openly about learning about technology for a new @placeholder console.