You've probably heard a lot of talk about the Nintendo Wii ... perhaps even had a couple of turns at other people's houses. If you're a new buyer, though, you'll want to know a fair bit more about this very innovative gaming console. Today we go through the full review of the Wii gaming platform, including benefits, drawbacks, essential extras and recommended games, for those considering buying one.
Wii: What makes it different?
If you've never played one before, the way people rave about the Wii probably takes you aback a little. It's just a game console, after all ...
The main point of difference with the Wii is its motion-sensing remote control technology. Where other game consoles have been getting better graphics, additional features and more involved games for some time, the Wii has pared back its game details and gone for an entirely different angle. Here's why the Wii is different:
- You'll often stand up to play the Wii
- The accelerometer radically changes the way you interact with games. Forward, backward, side to side motions, tilts and rotations of the controller are all sensed and interpreted by a Wii console.
- You'll need to use a wrist strap with the controller to keep your windows, and television screen, safe
- You need a larger area to play the Wii in - having enough space to sit on the couch doesn't equate to Wii playability!
Nintendo Wii: The Good
Aside from the awesome new style of game control that the Wii offers, it has several other benefits:
- Intuitive interface
- The Wiimote is simple to use
- The console itself is very cheap
- Has the potential to reduce your waistline
Nintendo Wii: The Bad
However, the new design does bring up some other issues:
- For some games you'll have to buy an extra non-standard controller (adding to the cost a little)
- Connects via composite cables - if you want to connect via HDMI you'll have to supply your own cables
- The sensors on the remotes can be a little difficult to use sometimes. However, the Motionplus attachment does improve this.
Nintendo Wii: The Ugly
There are some very annoying things about the Wii ... but all can be overcome.
- You must use a wrist strap with the controller - you'll be flinging it around with a lot of force, and you don't want to add hospital bills or television replacement to the cost of your Wii console! You will get used to the wrist strap, though.
- The nunchuck cable connection will swing around and whack you in some games. Grab a third-party wireless nunchuck to overcome this problem.
Nintendo Wii: The Extras and Accessories
The Wii comes with some very cool extras and accessories that, although they do add to your hardware outlay, also add immeasurably to your experience when playing certain games.
Some optional extras verge on 'necessary' status because they make the entire console more pleasant to own. Things like spare controllers so you can play with a friend, battery chargers, etc aren't optional for many people ... they're mandatory to actually enjoy the Wii.
Some games will state that an extra controller is 'required', some will simply be 'compatible' with an optional controller like a wheel or a gun. Extra controllers and accessories start from around $15, and can cost up to $80.
