Nintendo has scored a hit with their minimalist approach focused on user interaction.  In today’s video game market of cutting edge graphics and loaded features, Nintendo chose to put the user’s best interest in mind when they designed a controller that mimics user motion.  The “get off the couch” approach has made it very popular with men, women, and children. 

At first glance, the system has a very clean look and it’s small in size, much like older Nintendo systems N64 and Gamecube.  This is Nintendo’s first console that uses a standard size CD disc, rather than the now archaic cartridge or the mini-CD used on Gamecube.  The system includes a game called Wii Sports which includes 5 different games; golf, tennis, bowling, boxing and baseball.  These titles would not sell well as solo titles, but when packaged together, they give the user a great training forum for mastering the Wii.  My personal favorite so far is Wii Bowling.  The ease of use and likeness to actual bowling will make it a fan favorite with young and old alike.  This is a great game to play in a group setting since up to four players can join in using the same Wii controller. 

Each user is also able to create a “Mii” (pronounced “me”), which is a personalized character that you can then select as your player during games.  The interface for this is pretty basic and easy to use.  In minutes you’ll have your cartoon likeness and be ready to play.

The controller is very simplified considering its capabilities.  It includes a four-way directional pad that can be used to navigate menus and an “A” and “B” that are used for various in-game controls.  The main feature is the sensor on the end of the controller that allows the user to punch an opponent, bowl, and swing a golf club, tennis racquet or baseball bat.  You can really work up a sweat and that is reflected with the Wii fitness where you are able to play the Wii sports game that is setup as a cardio workout.  The secondary controller, also called the “nunchuk” is used only in select games for advance movement.  The nunchuk is easily plugged into the motion controller, linking the two together.  A wrist strap is included and after you’ve worked up a sweat while playing, it comes in handy to keep the controller firmly planted in your hand.

Overall, I am very pleased with the Wii system and its functionality.  However, there are currently a limited number of game titles for the console, which may make it less appealing to some.  With the pending release of many Nintendo-only titles, this system will continue to please the strong alliance of Nintendo enthusiasts.  I had very high expectations based on reviews and gossip, and now am a proud member of the Wii family. 

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Nintendo Wii

Product Review Date:  May 11, 2007