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Wii Lens Cleaning Kit From Nintendo

2009-09-07T05:00:00.000-07:00

Product Description

Reduce disk read errors and keep your Wii System running at peak performance with the Wii Lens Cleaning Kit. When used regularly, this kit will help keep your disk reader lens free of dust, dirt, or other contaminants which can cause disk read errors (This kit will not affect errors caused by damage to the Wii console or game disks.)

Product Description

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #413 in Video Games
Brand: Nintendo
Model: RVLALS
Released on: 2009-02-09
Platform: Nintendo Wii
Dimensions: 1.18" h x 5.51" w x 7.87" l, .26 pounds

Features

Minimize disk read errors
Keep your Wii running at peak performance
Use regularly to help keep your disk reader lens clean

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
Reduce disk read errors and keep your Wii console running at peak performance with the Wii Lens Cleaning Kit. When used regularly, this kit will help keep your disc reader lens free of dust, dirt, or other contaminants, which can cause disk read errors. (This kit will not affect errors caused by damage to the Wii console or game discs.)

This cleaning kit is for adult use only and contains chemicals, and should be stored out of the reach of small children when not in use.

Customer Reviews

Kit fixed my Super Smash Brother Brawl Problem
The kit is a plastic disk with a tabbed handle on and a cleaning pad glued to it and a bottle of cleaning solution. You put two to three drops of the cleaning solution on the pad and then insert it into the Wii as you would a regular disk. Once inserted, you move the tab 3/4 of an inch 10 to 20 times to clean the lens. Then you eject the disk. That's all there is to it.

It comes with a bottle a solution that seems like it'll last awhile at 2-3 drops per use. It also has five extra cleaning pads, which are only changed when one gets dirty or starts coming off. So, it seems like the kit will last through plenty of uses.

How useful is it? My first use was necessary because of a problem I was having, and it worked wonders. Here's the story:

Last week, I finally bought Super Smash Bros. Brawl for the Wii. As happened with some other users, my Wii wouldn't play it... it's the only double-sided disk game to come out for the Wii and apparently very sensitive to lens contamination.

I wrote to Nintendo. They said I had to send the unit back for repair and that no lens cleaner -- not even theirs -- would cure the problem.

I used the lens cleaning kit anyway, and guess what? Super Smash Bros. Brawl now plays perfectly.

I figure if it solved that problem, it'll solve almost any lens dirt problem that can happen to a Wii. Since I smoke cigarettes near the Wii, I consider it an essential item, and a bargain at the price.

Fixed my "Press the Eject button and remove the disc" problem.
After a year and a half w/o any problems with my Wii console, I started getting "An error has occurred. Press the Eject button and remove the disc..." errors. These got more and more frequent until I was getting them a couple times an hour. (This usually happened while I was playing Mario Kart Wii online, so I was losing hundreds of VR points each time I got the error!) There was no visible damage to the game disc and cleaning the disc did not help. I was pretty much ready to either send in the Wii console for repairs or else buy a new Wii console when I came across this Wii Lens Cleaning Kit while searching online.

After using the cleaning kit, I have not gotten a single "Press the Eject button and remove the disc..." error. It's been about a month and half so far with no errors.

The cleaning kit is pretty simple. It consists of a plastic paddle with an attached cleaning pad. You put 2-3 drops of the supplied cleaning fluid on the pad, then insert the paddle into the Wii's disc slot. You wiggle the handle 10-20 times to clean the lens. Press the Eject button to remove the paddle, and you're done. The kit comes with an 8ml bottle of cleaning fluid and 5 adhesive replacement pads for when the current pad gets too dirty to use again.

Spending $10 on a cleaning kit was definitely better than sending in the Wii for repairs or buying a new Wii.

Worked a treat
Our Wii was giving a read error on any disc we tried, both Wii and Gamecube discs. This kit got us back up and running 100%. Both Wii and Gamecube games work perfectly again. Sure beats sending it back for repairs, especially since it's out of warranty. Definitely recommended.

Wii Dual Charge Station & Turbo Cooler From Intec

2009-09-07T02:56:00.001-07:00

Product Description

This custom station features two (2) Wii remote charging docks and a turbo cooling fan, all integrated into an ultra-compact vertical stand. Also included are two (2) rechargeable battery packs that deliver the juice you need for non-stop gaming. The built-in LED turns red while charging and changes to blue once your remotes are fully charged. Station features a cool glow at the base, with its own on/off switch.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #192 in Video Games
Brand: Intec
Model: G5614
Released on: 2008-09-01
Platform: Nintendo Wii
Number of items: 1
Dimensions: 3.00" h x 8.00" w x 11.00" l, 1.08 pounds

Features

Your all-in-one Wii gaming station
Wii not included
Compatible with Wii
LIFETIME WARRANTY

Customer Reviews

Switch Does NOT Control Fan
Just to remark on another review, the on/off switch does not control the fan. The fan stays on whenever the unit is plugged in. The switch only controls the blue light.
I have made an adjustment in my charging center to get the switch to control both the light and the fan.
In order to do this you must:

1) Remove the sticky feet and the 4 screws underneath them
2) Remove the circuit board (2 screws) that the fan wires goto.
3) Unsolder the fans black wire (+) from the bottom of the curcuit board
4) Solder the fans black wire to the on off switch where the red wires from the blue light are already soldered.
5) re-screw the circuit board
6) rescrew the 4 screws under the feet
7) Put back on the sticky feet.

Now the on/off switch will control both the fan and the blue light.
I rated this an overall rating of 3 because this is a stupid design and the on/off switch should have controlled both without me having to modify it.
Doing this modification was simple.
I am not a great solderer so was worried at first, but when I took it apart I saw how easy it would be.
The modification took less then 10 minutes and could be done easily by anyone.
If this modification was done by the factory, I would have given this unit a 5 star review, but since I had to mod it, I am giving it a 3.

Wii dual charger with fan
I purchased this thinking it would be good since it does not require an additional power cord and has the two charger docks and batteries. When I received it I found that the on/off switch does not control the fan just the light and the base charging units. I also have some issues with the charging docks. They are too deep for the remotes. The wrist strap gets in the way when you insert them and I have problems with the remotes making contact to charge. I read the other reviews and sure, if I take the wrist straps off the remotes would fit better but I have two young children that are not going to take the time to do that. If the on/off switch controlled the fan as well and the docking stations were not as deep it would be a great charging station for the Wii. Over all I am keeping it but I am going to follow the other review on modifying it to have the on/off switch control the fan. If the remotes making contact to charge becomes too much of an issue I will purchase a different type of unit. Until this item is modified by the manufacturer I would not recommend it unless you need to save the money and have the time to fool with it. It is a great design idea I just think it needs a few modifications.

This is the Wii Charge Station to get!
I have been looking through all the reviews on charge stations, but none appealed to me more than this one (without no reviews nonetheless). Comes with 2 Battery packs that is pretty much the steal right there! Everything works perfectly out of the package. Easy to hook up. Switch to turn fan on/off (along with blue LED). Wiimote slips right in the charger and make sure you move the strap out of the way to get the full charge. You must charge this for 12 hours before using!!! That is very important and also says so in the manual. Red LED indicates charge and Blue LED indicates charge completion. I hope this has been enough information to influence you to buy this GREAT Wii accessory.

Official Wii Zapper with Link's Crossbow Training From Nintendo

2009-09-07T02:55:00.002-07:00

Product Description

With the Wii Zapper, your game shooting experience is guarenteed to take on a whole other dimension. Your Wii remote and nunchuck fit snugly into the Zapper, still working as well as before, only now in a shape that, when simulating the use of a weapon such as a gun or bow, allows for a steadier hand that is much less likely to get tired. Included with the Zapper is Link's Crossbow Training for the Wii, a clever and engaging shooting game set in the world of Twilight Princess that includes 27 different levels, several different game modes and multiplayer capability up to four people. Link's Crossbow Training is ESRB Rated T for Teen.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #245 in Video Games
Brand: Nintendo
Model: RVLRRZPE
Released on: 2007-11-20
Platform: Nintendo Wii
Subtitled in: English
Number of items: 1
Dimensions: 2.75" h x 5.75" w x 13.00" l, 1.00 pounds

Features

Wii Zapper comes with Link's Cross Bow Training Game
Wii Remote and Nunchuk are sold seperately

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com

The Wii Zapper is a gun peripheral that allows the user to insert a Wii Remote and Nunchuk, both sold separately, into either end and play a compatible game. The control stick on the Nunchuk controls player movement (on stages that allow player movement), while aiming the Wii Zapper moves the targeting reticule on the screen. The Zapper comes with Link's Crossbow Training, which helps to familiarize the player with the Zapper in a shooting gallery style game. Link's Crossbow Training contains three game styles: target shooting, defender and ranger.

Features:

Target Shooting: In target-shooting rounds, players shoot bull's-eyes as they pop up on the screen. In early stages, targets are stationary. As the game difficulty increases in later levels, the targets move. Hitting the center of the bull's-eye nets more points, and hitting targets in succession without missing earns combo multipliers. Link can aim anywhere on the screen.
Defender: In defender rounds, players remain stationary but can look and aim in all directions by aiming off screen. Hordes of enemies assault Link, and he must fight them off. These battles have a great deal of variety, from fighting off skeletons in a desert to defending a wagon from boar-riding Bokoblins.
Ranger: In ranger rounds, players can move throughout the level using the control stick and aim anywhere they want by aiming the Wii Zapper wherever they want to look. In these missions, Link storms enemy encampments, fights his way through a forest and seeks out his foes while exploring the environments.
The Wii Remote and Nunchuk are sold separately

Customer Reviews

Link's Crossbow Training is Great; Zapper Ergonomics are OK!
The combination of the Zapper and Link's Crossbow Training is well worth the $20 I paid. The Zapper (which is only a plastic shell for the Wiimote and the Nunchuck) is very sturdy and amazingly well-conceived. The instructions are quite clear on how to insert the Wiimote and the Nunchuck into the Zapper.

Of course the ergonomics of the Zapper are odd, with the trigger (the Wiimote B button) being forward vs to the rear like a rifle or shotgun trigger. However, it's a compromise that Nintendo decided it had to make based on its tests on prototypes. That, and the fact that the infrared component of the Wiimote must be to the front.

The bundled game, "Link's Crossbow Training" is multifaceted and exactly what's needed to give the player practice using the Zapper. AND, the game is a lot of fun all by itself.

The bottom line on this is that the combo of the Zapper plus the game Link's Crossbow Training is a must-have (at least for me) and worth the price. Highly recommended.

A Future Collector Item
I was skeptical when i saw the box. "We don't need to turn the wii-motes into a gun. How good can the pack-in be?" But then I had second thoughts and bought it. We've been playing it all night. I was a Duck Hunt fan and the rail shooting levels are fantastic - like the first time you played Mrs. PacMan after being a PacMan fan but so much better. There's a mix of scrolling, rail and 1st person shooting levels set in the Twilight Princess world that can be played in order or on their own. If you get a Wii for the holidays, pick this up as well. I can tell there's no point in even taking the wii-mote out of the zapper. The family will be playing this just about everyday, despite our having about a dozen other Wii titles. My 3 year old was delighted when she beat my high score. In my defense it would have been higher but I hit a live chicken. My 8 year old informed me "Mom! You can't shoot LIVE things!!!" Who knew? It was so much fun blasting the fruit balloons.... and the skeletons.... I'd defend my record, but my husband and brother have been playing for the last four hours and I can't get near it. Well worth the $20 - if they'd sold the game alone I would have paid more.

Link's Crossbow training will make you a Zapper convert
This is what I expected it to be, a non essential peripheral that only adds to the feeling of shooting (this gun controls excellently off the hip), but Nintendo has included a first class Zelda style shooting game that is just as fun as any light gun game I have ever played as well. The 27 levels will go by fast and if you combo your shots you should be medalling fairly quickly which means that it is technically only about an hour and 1/2 of gameplay till the end, but there are boss battles and free roaming sections on the levels that make it feel like more than some software designed to get gamers used to the Zapper and its mechanics. The instructions are clear and should be read to put it together properly as the cord just fits into the handle, the nunchuck cord does wrap around the handle at the top which will annoy those with BIG hands. I tried it out with COD 3 and RES EV4 and if you can get your index finger on the A button and shoot with your middle finger both are playable but the vehicle/ combat levels in COD3 make it essentially unplayable with this setup same goes for Metroid 3. I can't wait to get my hands on copies of MEDAL OF HONOR HEROES 2-GHOST SQUAD-UMBRELLA CHRONICLES to get some shooting action in that is specifically designed for the zapper, until then I will keep shooting up the landscape in Links terrific if somewhat short pack in game and dream about a COD4 zapper adaptation.

Wii Classic Controller From Nintendo

2009-09-07T02:55:00.001-07:00

Product Description

The Wii Classic Controller recreates the classic Nintendo format you've been using for years now. For gamers who don't feel comfortable with the new Nunchaku or Wiimote controls, this is a familiar and comfortable alternative. Features include:

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #270 in Video Games
Brand: Nintendo
Model: Wii Classic Controller
Released on: 2006-11-19
Platform: Nintendo Wii
Number of items: 1
Dimensions: 2.00" h x 7.25" w x 9.25" l, .44 pounds

Features

Four face buttons - X, Y, B, A
Twin analog sticks
Four shoulder buttons
4-way D-pad

Customer Reviews

A Very Good Controller in Most Cases
If you plan on buying a Wii and going through with the virtual download, then getting the classic controller is not such a bad investment. What causes to be a bad investment however depends on what games you plan on downloading for the virtual console. Case in point, if you've got a Gamecube controller, there's a big possibility you may want to stick with that one instead.

To begin, the controller attaches to the Wii remote, so it is in fact wireless. So you don't have to deal too much with cords in the way. Although, this brings about the problem of your Wii remote batteries dying. Then your shell controller doesn't work so well either. Another interesting aspect of the classic controller is that you can use it to navigate through the Wii channels if you like.

The layout of the controller is almost an exact replica of the classic Super Nintendo Controller. The differences are two Z buttons, one next to the L button and one next to the R button, and a home button to navigate back to the wii menu. Its fantastic for playing virtual console games because the buttons are set to correspond to the same things they did on their respective controllers. Although at the same time this can be troublesome, particularly for playing Nintendo 64 games. If you plan on downloading N64 games, the Gamecube Controller works far better than the shell controller does. Mainly because the button layout just feels awkward at times. The Z buttons are small, unlike the Gamecube controller which happens to have a fairly large one. The control stick is also far better on the Gamecube Controller for N64 games and the A and B button placements are better as well.

Otherwise, if you plan on getting a Super Nintendo game, this controller is perfect! It's also perfect for NES games, although you could just use the wii remote to play those games (although, the wii remote definitely feels awkward at first). Aside from that, the classic controller works extremely well.

There are a couple of problems, however. For starters, the classic controller doesn't work for Gamecube games at all. This brings about the question as to whether the classic controller is worth buying at all. The answer is simply that it depends on what you want more of. If you plan on playing tons of Super Nintendo games on your virtual console, then yes the classic controller is a fantastic buy. It even works better than the Wii remote when playing classic NES games and TurboGrafx-16 games. However, you can't help but admit the Gamecube controller works great as well (although the Gamecube controller doesn't work quite as well with Super Nintendo games; just try playing Contra III). The classic controller is great, but until there's actually a Wii game that requires it above all else, its hard to tell people with Gamecube controllers that they'll absolutely need it. It's a great controller, but not yet a necessity.

On the positive side

+The button layout is pretty good
+Can be used to navigate the Wii Menu
+Attaches to the Wii remote so you don't have to deal with a lot of cords
+Controls are precise and corespond accordingly to each game
+Works especially well with Super Nintendo games

On the negative side

-It feels awkward with N64 games (the Gamecube controller is better)
-As of yet, there are no wii games that require the classic controller
-It's really difficult to recommend the classic controller when the Gamecube controller works just fine as well. Perhaps when a game for the Wii that requires the controller it'll be a lot easier to recommend to people.

So it really IS a good controller, but unless you plan on playing tons of Super Nintendo classics, the Gamecube controller is a better buy right now--especially if you plan on playing Nintendo 64 games.

A little classic flare for that new-fangled Wii contraption!
The classic controller is a controller attachment for the Wii that plugs into the expansion port at the bottom of the Wii remote. It is wired, like the nunchuk attachment, but it utilizes the same wireless signal of the Wii remote.

The Classic controller is used specifically in conjunction with the Virtual Console download service. With this service, players can download classic games from the NES, SNES, N64, Sega Genesis, and Turbografix-16 game consoles! Currently, no Wii games have been officially announced to utilize the classic controller and the classic controller CANNOT control games for the GameCube system.

The pros of the controller are obvious. You can use it to play classic games from the virtual console service, and it remains wireless by using the power from the batteries in the Wii remote.

If you plan on playing GameCube games in your Wii, however, it may be a better purchase to buy a GameCube controller or a WaveBird wireless GameCube controller, as all games currently on the virtual console can also be controlled by these as well as the classic controller.

Overall, the classic controller is a nice addition to the Wii hardware and should fit nicely in your family of Wii peripherals. If you don't own a GCN controller, and don't plan on playing GCN games on your system, the classic controller is a no-brainer, and a convenient way to get back into classic gaming!

Necessary
For all the people saying that a wireless GameCube controller is a better purchase ... I'm wondering, have you tried Super Mario World with the GameCube controller yet?

It's unplayable. I have both and I tried to play 2-player SMW. The classic controller of course works perfectly, but the GameCube one is awful. Here's why: SMW requires you to do running jumps over pits. That means you hold Y and press B to jump. Y and B are right next to each other on the classic controller, but on the GameCube controller, there is an enormous A button almost directly between them. You have to bend your thumb at a weird angle to hit B and Y but not A, because if you hit A you will do a spin jump and probably fall in the pit.

So really, one of the best Virtual Console games out right now does not work well with the GameCube controller ... the classic controller is great and works well with all of the games. (That's what it was made for, you know)

Rock Band 2 Triple Cymbal Expansion Kit

2009-09-07T02:54:00.000-07:00

Product Description

Mad Catz¿ Rock Band 2 Triple Cymbal Expansion Kit provides the means for you to drum like the pros do with velocity- sensitive Crash, Ride, and Hi-Hat cymbals. With the easy-to-install mounting brackets, you have total control and can setup your drum kit in any configuration you see fit. Once your drum kit has been customized to your standards, you¿ll be all set to attack your song library with new vigor and achieve the next step in drumming perfection.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #171 in Video Games
Brand: Mad Catz
Model: RB2063380/04/1
Released on: 2008-11-30
Platforms: Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3, Nintendo Wii
Dimensions: 3.31" h x 10.55" w x 21.73" l, 4.60 pounds

Features

Crash, Ride & Hi-Hat cymbals. Game sold separately.
Velocity-sensitive for precise drumming
Adjustable height
Easy-to-install clamps for quick setup
Only compatible with Rock Band 2 Drum kits

Customer Reviews

Great Addition to the game
Second Update 12/16/2008: UPS just dropped a package from Mad Catz. They didn't fix my broken cymbal, they sent me an entirely new package, cymbal, mounting hardware and all.

No note included saying what was wrong, or anything, just a new cymbal. It looks like it's been handled, which probably means that someone tested it out to make sure it worked right, before they sent it to me (or that it's a refurbished.)

I tried it out, and all seems well. Kudos to Mad Catz for the excellent customer service. Their site says 4 to 6 weeks, and it only took 12 days from drop off, to return. I'm psyched.
Update: After playing for an hour or so this afternoon, it's evident that one of my cymbals is defective. It's sometimes registering two hits, instead of one. I called Mad Catz, and the guy I got was super friendly, extremely understanding, and set me up with an RMA. He said the website suggested 4-6 weeks, but realistically, it's more like 2 to 3. I'll update again when I get the new cymbal to see if it's working properly. I'm glad I didn't just try returning it to Amazon to get another, they appear to be completely sold out everywhere I've checked today. Glad I pre-ordered mine 3 months ago.

My three pack finally arrived last night, and I was psyched to get them. Ever since they were announced, I've been excited about them. The way I assumed they worked, was actually different than how they do work. More on that later.

First, some images, to show how freaking cool they look:

The whole kitHi-Hat CymbalRide Cymbal

The cymbals certainly give the drums the look of a real drumkit (okay, at least a real electronic drumkit,) but how do they play?

They take some getting used to, that's for sure. I just got them last night, so I'm still in the adjusting phase. But right from the get go, my wife said "You look like you're having more fun." Which I totally was. It felt like I was playing more realistically than I had without the cymbals.

When I first bought the cymbals, I assumed that they would just act as extenders of their respective colors. So when you'd hit the blue, it made whatever sound the blue one should at that specific point in time. As Rock Banders know, the drums pretty much all double as cymbals or drums, depending on the part of the song. I was pleasantly surprised that the new cymbal pads are dedicated as cymbals. So, if you hit the "ride" cymbal, it makes the ride cymbal no matter what. Same for the hi-hat, and crash cymbals.

It may throw your brain off, when you hit the cymbal when it's a tom-tom in the game, and you hear the wrong sound, but it won't break your streak, or count against your overall score. As long as you hit the right color, the sound that the game makes doesn't matter.

My favorite thing about the other game, you know, that one I returned already, was that there were dedicated cymbal pads with their drumkit. The Rock Band 2 drumkit, with the Mad Catz add-on cymbal pack (a measely $29.99) is 100% totally, absolutely better than GHWT's, hands down.

The game is more fun when playing drums, with the cymbals. It's more realistic, and more creative. I especially dig that during the "Overdrive fills", you can be a lot more musical with the drums, with dedicated toms/cymbals. If you're a die hard drummer for a Rock Band band, you absolutely need to spend the $29.99 to get these cymbals, pronto.

Double-Hit Problem Fixed
First of all the Mad Catz Triple Expansion Cymbals works like a charm. It adds great depth of play when playing as the drummer in Rock Band.

I've seen several reviews here that says that the cymbals slips when it was hit too hard and sometimes the cymbals double-hits when hit too hard.

Well I found a fix for these problems.

Cymbals Slipping:
You must ensure that the plastic locks that holds the aluminum tube snaps 'locks' into place with the other half of it. There must not be a space in between the two plastic locks other than the circular areas which hold the drum aluminum tube and the cymbal aluminum tube. But be careful once they're locked it can be very difficult to separate the two plastics.

Cymbals Double-hit:
I noticed that one of the three cymbals I got was too sensitive. When I hit it hard, the game registers two hits. You can try this by going to the main menu and assigning the sensitive cymbal into the BLUE (ride) port. Try hitting it hard and you will notice that on the Menu selection screen it will go down from QUICKPLAY -> TOUR -> TRAINING. This is clearly a double hit because it skipped the TOUR on the menu. And for the fix, try loosening up the wing nuts in such a way that the cymbals will bounce a little when hit. This would transfer the bounce force into the foam and not the cymbal sensor. After trying this and testing with songs with lots of cymbals (Dead on Arrival) I noticed that I never missed a note again when hitting the sensitive cymbal.

I hope this helps lots of people having problems with the Mad Catz Cymbals Triple Pack.

Mad Catz Triple Cymbal Kit
UPDATE: See the pictures I added at the top to get an idea of what the kit looks like, and what the clamps should look like when properly installed if you're having trouble.

I've has this set almost two months now and they still work and look perfect. No problems at all, and well worth the $. These have been played by both of my teen aged boys, and a professional drummer, and they all love them!

I bought these on release day and have not had the slightest regret.

My biggest gripe with the basic drums you get with Rock Band 1 and 2 is that they have no cymbals, and the pads aren't laid out like the real deal. It's not as big of a deal when you play the guitar parts, you expect them to be a cut down version of the real thing. It doesn't matter how much you play the guitar parts, it's not going to help much when it comes to playing a real guitar. The drums are different. If you actually learn the tempos, and get good at your timing, this will transfer to the real thing.

If you use these in practice mode they will output the sounds of a real set of electronic drums, including the bass, snare, toms, and floor tom, as well as the high hat, crash, and ride cymbals. You can play this set in practice mode, and accompany any song you choose to play through your system.

Are they as big a deal in the game itself? Not quite. But it's better to get used to playing on something laid out like a real set and a lot more fun. If you just want to play the game and aren't interested in getting good at drumming they aren't as big of a deal.

These are velocity sensitive and will react with more volume the harder they're hit.

These DO NOT work with the Rock Band 1 set of drums. They do work with all sets of RB2 drums as well as all game systems.

This set is very well constructed and well worth the money. If you like to play the drums on RB and GHWT, and want the extra challenge of playing with cymbals, don't pass up either this three piece kit, or the two piece kit.

For some reason the picture shows the cymbals really close together. If you set them up right they can be positioned like a normal drum and cymbal set. Not the bunched up mess the Madcatz picture shows.

See my photos at the top to get a better understanding of how the clamps work, and also how they can be spaced out better.

Wii Wireless Sensor Bar From NYKO Technologies

2009-09-07T02:53:00.002-07:00

Product Description

Nyko's Wireless Sensor Bar gives you better Wii Remote functionality without the hassle or mess of any wired connection to the console. The infrared field created by the Wireless Sensor Bar allows for play up to 25 feet away -- perfect for larger or wall-mounted TVs. The Wireless Sensor Bar is easy to set up, requiring no software or hardware installation on the Wii. Featuring 30 hours of battery life off 4 AA batteries (included) and a unique power saver mode with audible alarm, the Wireless Sensor Bar is designed for ultimate convenience. Ideal for wall-mounted flat screen

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #212 in Video Games
Brand: Nyko
Model: 87005
Released on: 2007-03-15
Platform: Nintendo Wii
Number of items: 1
Dimensions: 2.50" h x 2.50" w x 11.50" l, .70 pounds

Features

Infrared technology detects pointer and motion movements up to 20 feet away
4 AA batteries provide hours of use
Perfect for home theater setups with wall mounted TVs or complicated cabling

Customer Reviews

Read this review to know if you need this product
The Wii requires a "sensor bar" above or below your TV screen, so it can tell where on the screen you're pointing your remote controller. The Wii comes with a wired sensor bar that will work great for most homes. Don't buy an extra wireless sensor bar unless you actually need it.

To help you decide, it's really useful to understand how this device works. The name "wireless sensor bar" is actually quite misleading in 2 specific ways.

I at first assumed the "sensor bar" was communicating with the Wii console -- that a wired sensor bar sends communications over the wire, and that a wireless sensor bar sends information wirelessly to the console. After all, it's a sensor bar, so it must be sensing something and communicating that information, right?

Wrong. In fact, the sensor bar is nothing more than a fancy flashlight. All it does is turn on some infrared lights with specific spacing and orientation. In fact, it's your Wii remote controller that senses the infrared lights and transmits this information wirelessly to your console, which can then calculate where you are pointing the remote and display a little icon on the screen.

So, misconception #1: the "sensor bar" doesn't sense anything, it's just a little flashlight. Misconception #2, the word "wireless" often means "wireless communication", but in this case, the "sensor bar" is just a dumb device that can't communicate in any way, so the wire is just for power.

So you have 2 options:

* Use the fancy flashlight that you've already purchased, as it came bundled with your Wii, which is powered by a wire connected to your Wii.

* Buy a second fancy flashlight powered by a battery.

OK, with those misconceptions out of the way, you can make a much better choice about whether or not wireless is right for you. For example, don't fret about wireless network interference -- this device doesn't cause any. Likewise, don't worry about having a hard time setting up the "wireless sensor bar" with your Wii -- it doesn't require pairing or any extra configuration at all, it's just a flashlight.

Personally, I normally groove on everything wireless. I adore my Mac wireless mouse. I use only wireless peripherals for all my computers. I have a wireless home network. But in this case, I definitely prefer the bundled, wired "sensor bar". I have too many devices that need batteries as it is, but I was mostly bothered by the 2nd on/off switch.

Let me explain that last comment. You can turn on and off your Wii system with a single, remote controlled button click, just like a TV remote control. Grab any game controller (which of course is wireless and remote) and click the power button from any seat in the room, and the system powers itself on -- plus, that game controller is now designated controller #1. Hold the power button on the remote for several seconds and the system turns itself off -- and all the game controllers you were using are smart enough to power themselves off as well. Sweet! I vastly prefer this over the GameCube, which had to be powered on/off by pushing a button on the console itself.

Unfortunately, the "wireless sensor bar" breaks this elegance. Every time I wanted to play the Wii, I'd sit down, grab the nearest remote, click the power button -- and it would fail to work properly because the wireless sensor bar wasn't turned on. Nor was it able to turn itself on wirelessly, it's just a flashlight, it can't receive wireless commands in any way. So I'd get up, walk to this device, turn it on, and then be able to play. Turning off, same thing -- now I have to turn off 2 items instead of 1. Worse still, the 2nd on/off switch on the "wireless sensor bar" is near the TV, so you have to physically get up and walk around the coffee table, etc. etc., or just leave the flashlight on and have your batteries run down.

Yes, it's a minor complaint. But given that you've already paid for a "sensor bar" that works great, why pay extra for one that doesn't work as well?

There are undoubtedly good reasons to get this device in specific circumstances. If your screen is huge or unusually far away, or if you have a cabling nightmare behind your entertainment center and loathe the thought of adding one more unnecessary wire, you may need or prefer this device over the one that comes with your Wii. I'll defer to other reviewers who can explain what circumstances make this device useful. But for a typical living room setup, with a normal sized TV 5-15 feet away, the wired sensor bar that comes with the Wii works great.

And P.S.: ditch the coffee table, you'll enjoy your Wii more without it.

Much Better
Some reviews mentioned that this bar let you get further away from the TV. We have a 18X25 livingroom. With the original sensor bar, we had to sit in the middle of the room or it wouldn't work very well. With this sensor bar, we are now able to sit all the way across the room on the sofa and it works perfectly.

Yes it is a little larger, has a blue light, a timer, and so on. But at least for us, those are all miniscule with being able to get a much greater distance away from the TV. Well worth the money and definately much better than the original one that came with the Wii.

Use both!
So I had put this on my wishlist for my birthday and was happy to get it. It does indeed extend the range of the remotes. But our couch is 12' away from the TV (big TV) and was pushing the limit of even this sensor. But wait, it's not a sensor, is it? It's just a pair of LED emitters like the original. So I *stacked* them. They actually stack quite nicely, with the wired Nintendo emitter on bottom (so that the activation button on the Nyko is still on top). The result was amazing - what was jittery at 12' is now rock stable at 20'.

I like the timer function, and the on indicator. Not fond of the silver logo on front. But the product works great. If you have a Wii and a big screen, you want this product. Try it on it's own or stacked!

s Powered by 4 AA batteries (included)

Wii Charge Station From Nyko

2009-09-07T02:53:00.001-07:00

Product Description

Charging Dock & Rechargable Battery Pack Set for Nintendo Wii

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #91 in Video Games
Brand: Nyko
Model: 87000
Released on: 2006-12-07
Platform: Nintendo Wii
Number of items: 1
Dimensions: 3.75" h x 8.25" w x 9.50" l, 1.20 pounds

Features

Charge 2 Wii Remotes at the same time
Includes 2 NiMH rechargable batteries for up to 25 hours of gameplay time
multicolor LEDs indicate charge percentage
6 foot AC power cord provides faster charge than USB
2 rubberized battery covers for superior grip and performance

Customer Reviews

Get this for your Wii!!!
Picked this up the other day....suffice to say they are selling like hotcakes at the Gamestops across the country.

This is a definite purchase for a Wii Owner:

Included in the package is:
Charging Stand
2 Rechargeable Battery Packs
2 Rubberized Battery Covers (Necessary to use)

After unpacking the unit....you see that the rechargeable battery pack slides inthe the Wii Remotes battery compartment with a snap and has a protruding part with the 4 metal contacts for the charging station.....this is why the use of the rubberized battery compartment covers is mandatory as the covers have the hole for access to the battery contacts.

Placing the controllers with everything installed into the charger initially worried me as I wasn't sure if I had to remove the Wrist Straps.

Thankfully...you do not have to....there are small grooves on the left and right of the stand for you to lay the Wrist strab connection through.

Charging of the 2 remotes from install took approximately 3-4 hours.....and everything works like a charm and it looks great.

If you have a Wii....buy it....[...] with batteries....not too bad :)

Perfect finishing touch
As many other reviewers, I quickly learned after getting my Wii that the Wiimotes are understandably battery hogs. I'm a little surprised Nintendo didn't build something like this into the system. Regardless, this charger really does the job, and you almost expect to see a Nintendo logo on it because of the great job Nyko has done with quality and style that matches the Wii itself.

I don't use skins on my Wiimotes (just looks like a hindrance to me), so that hasn't been an issue, although I imagine it would be for any charger/cradle, not just this one. The rubberized battery doors required to use this kit really do improve the overall feel of the Wiimote.

I don't know if battery life matches regular alkalines, but that's because I just put the controllers back in the cradle when I'm not using them, and they always stay charged! I haven't had the indicator on the screen get below the full 4 bars while I've been playing so far.

Also, I prefer the wall plug setup used by this as opposed to some other models that plug into the USB port on the Wii. Those models can only charge one controller and take longer because of the power limits of USB. The wall plug also allows you to keep your charger somewhere else in the room if you like.

Battery is weak link
I have owned this product about 4 months and have had to replace the battery pack for one unit already.The Battery pack lasted about 4 weeks and then it stopped working it would just get very hot but had no charge. Contacted customer service who had me return the batteries at my expense and they sent me new batteries in a previously used envelope (I mention this as it is indicative of an extremely small shoe string operation not a solid company). The new battery worked fine for awhile but now one battery pack is definitely getting hotter than the other so will probably not last and is out of guarantee. I think this is a good idea just not a quality product needs to be re engineered and made by a quality company.

Wii Perfect Shot Gun From Nyko

2009-09-07T02:52:00.002-07:00

Product Description

Ergonomic Gun Grip for Nintendo Wii

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #83 in Video Games
Brand: Nyko
Model: 87030
Released on: 2007-11-25
Platform: Nintendo Wii
Number of items: 1
Dimensions: 2.25" h x 6.50" w x 8.50" l, .45 pounds

Features

Traditional one handed pistol-like grip. Tactile trigger activates the "B" button
Aiming sight increases accuracy
Wii Remote easily slides into grip and locks into place
Accessory pass-through port for other attachments like the Nunchuk and Classic Controller
One hand remains free to operate the Nunchuk or other attachments simultaneously

Customer Reviews

Best Wii Gun
I own the product (unlike the other reviewer) so let me tell you that this is the Wii gun peripheral that has set the standard as the highest in it's class. The Zapper is plagued by it's design to be held with 2 hands to shoot, while this gun can be held with just one hand and you have the option of plugging in the nunchucks for games that require it. When testing the game with Resident Evil Umbrella Chronicles, it is very easy to aim with and the game feels much more fun with the gun (in my opinion this is how Resident Evil:UC was meant to be played). The remote slides in and it is held in place so you don't have to worry about the remote slipping off. For those wondering, there is no slot for the nunchuck (like the Zapper) only a slot for you to connect it so that you can hold onto it with your other hand. It feels like your holding a real gun and it has a sturdy feel to it (of course the color scheme might not represent a real gun, but guess that's a minor drawback and really I think the color scheme is fine as it matches with the Wii). Also this is priced fairly when compared to other guns available and the other guns are not as good as you can tell from the reviews (exception would be the Zapper since it does come with a game).

I recommend this to anyone who doesn't have a Zapper yet (or for those who have a Zapper and is looking to upgrade or is in need of another gun for multi-player) and has the following games: Medal of Honor Heroes 2, Resident Evil Umbrella Chronicles or Ghost Squad and any upcoming games such as House of the Dead 2 & 3 and/or any shooting game supporting the Zapper (not recommended for any other games such as Metroid Prime 3)

Note: The gun features a spring kick back (which is non existent in the Zapper). This feature is important as you can fire more rapidly. Before putting your remote in make sure you take off the wrist strap as it will not fit. Not recommended for game play sessions over 1 hour as your trigger finger will get tired.

Update: Any games that are compatible with the Zapper will use the 'Z' button on the nunchuck instead of pressing 'A'. For those wondering this does not mean you can play Resident Evil 4 or Metroid Prime 3 with the Perfect Shot as it is not "Zapper Compatible" (please check the back of any game box to make sure the game is Zapper compatible or not).

AWSOMENESS
This is the best Light Gun Shell I've ever used. Works great with Resident Evil: Umbrella Chronicles, Ghost Squad, and even Link's Crossbow Training.

This shell is much more comfortable than the Zapper (I own both), you can use it with one hand easily, and you have a more free range of motion since there isn't a big thing on the back of the gun to hold a nunchuck, it just can plug into the bottom of the gun (The Zapper may be better for some games, in the future, but for now I'm sticking with this).
It was built to work with the Nyko rechargeable batteries, so I don't have to take off the grip/battery cover and risk having the remote shutting down or change to regular batteries and waste those, which is needed with the zapper.

The only thing I noticed that some people may consider a problem, is that there is no way to use a wrist strap unless you physically modify the gun yourself.

Great Gun for the Wii
The only game I've been able to use this gun on is the target game that is on the wii play disk.

This is a great gun. The spring used for the trigger is perfect. The gun has a great feel to it and once the remote is added the weight of the gun feels good.

My only complaint is the fact that you have to take the wrist strap off to insert the remote. This isn't a big deal, but I think that NYKO could have created a small or hole that allowed the wrist strap to slide through. This will not be a big deal for most users as most guns have this same issue.

Overall.... Great Gun.

Wii Play with Wii Remote From Nintendo

2009-09-07T02:52:00.001-07:00

Product Description

Wii Play collects nine quick and addictive games that are easy to pick up and play and hard to put away. Thanks to the intuitive controls of the Wii Remote, even the most inexperienced gamers will have no trouble mastering the controls.

Wii Play features nine separate mini-games, including the following:

Shooting Range, a point-and-fire game of target practice in the Duck Hunt tradition.

Billiards, a simplified variation of nine-ball with stunningly realistic physics that uses your Wii Remote as your pool cue.

Find Mii, in which you scan the crowds to find the right Mii—and Miis you and your friends created make an appearance.

Tanks!, in which you command a toy tank on a miniature battlefield in a gauntlet of 100 missions.

Other games include Pose Mii, Table Tennis, Fishing, Charge!, and Laser Hockey.

Every game features a multiplayer mode, so you and your friends can compete for the high score or go head to head to see who’s the best. Wii Play comes with a white Wii Remote so that your friends can join in the action. (Nunchuk not included.)

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #46 in Video Games
Brand: Nintendo
Model: RVLRRHAE
Released on: 2007-02-13
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Platform: Nintendo Wii
Number of items: 1
Dimensions: 2.50" h x 5.50" w x 7.75" l, .88 pounds

Features

Shooting Range, a point-and-fire game of target practice in the Duck Hunt tradition
Billiards, a simplified variation of nine-ball with stunningly realistic physics that uses your Wii Remote as your pool cue
Find Mii, in which you scan the crowds to find the right Mii - Miis you and your friends created make an appearance
Tanks!, where you command a toy tank on a miniature battlefield in a gauntlet of 100 missions
Other games include Pose Mii, Table Tennis, Fishing, Charge! and Laser Hockey

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
Wii Play collects nine quick and addictive games that are easy to pick up and play and hard to put away. Thanks to the intuitive controls of the Wii Remote, even the most inexperienced gamers will have no trouble mastering the controls.

Wii Play features nine separate mini-games, including the following:

Shooting Range, a point-and-fire game of target practice in the Duck Hunt tradition.
Billiards, a simplified variation of nine-ball with stunningly realistic physics that uses your Wii Remote as your pool cue.
Find Mii, in which you scan the crowds to find the right Mii and Miis you and your friends created make an appearance.
Tanks!, in which you command a toy tank on a miniature battlefield in a gauntlet of 100 missions.
Other games include Pose Mii, Table Tennis, Fishing, Charge!, and Laser Hockey.

Customer Reviews

10$ game with 40$ remote.
This rating is based on the theory that this is a 10$ game bundled with a remote. Only worth buying because it comes with remote, other than that, it should be in the 15$ bin. I give this a 5 star fun rating because for 10$ (10$ game +40$ remote), you really get your money worth with multiplayer. I am going to review each mini game and then the game as a whole.

The games:
Shooting: Easily could have just turned this into duckhunt instead of releasing a real duckhunt game later this year. This game is a fun shooter, however the targets (once you played each level a few times) generally appear in the same locations as the previous time you played the level. This game is slightly more fun for a single player competiting for a high score. Playing against a human opponent is more of a battle of who can shoot the targets first, which if you are playing against a new player or some one who is slow with the remote, it's not fun for them. But overall a fun shooter for a single player or 2 skilled players.

Find Mii: This is a really fun game, but only if you have a few miis created on your console. As you progress through the levels it can be very challenging and even though there are only a few objectives, the variety of levels makes the game worth playing. It can be fun for 2 people as well, however you should gain time instead of points in multiplayer. (Single player you gain time instead points) Where you can get to very high levels in single player, (the game only appears to end when you run out of time, I'm not sure if there is a level limit) you can't in multiplayer because you don't gain time. Overall a fun, brain-teasing game.

Pose Mii: The worst game on here. Very boring, repetative, and for the most part: pointless. There are only 3 poses and until higher levels, the Miis are generally standing straight up or slightly angled, so there is not much to do other than move the remote back and forth while bubbles pop. Very boring. It's about the same fun for single and multi.

Ping Pong: This lacks substance but still a decent challenge. I was hoping that you would actually swing the wii mote like a paddle to play this game, but you basically just move it back and forth, it swings for you. As for single player, you just see how many times you can rally against the computer. (no points awarded) Multiplayer is more fun, as you play for points, and can be fun to see how many times you can rally it with eachother as the ball builds speed. Overall fun, but they could have allowed you to actually swing the paddle.

Laser Hockey: This is easily one of the best games on the disc. I prefer the round paddle for added realism and better control. (hold A + B before the start countdown ends) This is a very challenging game and is very fun for multiplayer tournaments. Single player is pretty fun as well but the AI is pretty bad when the puck gets stuck in a corner. Overall a great mutliplayer game, however the puck doesn't move very fast when you "thrust it," instead the puck seems to build speed the more it's rallied off the wall and the opponents paddle.

Cow race: Some what humorous game, but overall not much replayability. Not really a point to playing single player, but can be fun against a human player. Only one course makes this game boring after a few runs, but every once in a while you can have fun with it. The controls are creative and fun when you have a group of people playing.

Fishing: Fun for both single player and multiplayer. Much like the shooting game, fishing for a high score in single player is what holds this game's fun. As for multiplayer, much like shooting again, both players should be evenly skilled, otherwise one player catches all of the fish while the other player gets angry or discouraged. The controls are alright, they could have added some extra features and made it a bit like zelda fishing with the nunchuk reel and what not, but this game is too basic I think to incorperate that. All you really do is hold your rod in a pool of paper fish, and yank to catch when they bite. Overall a fun competition if you have 2 players of equal skill.

Tanks: This is one of the best games on the disc. Single player and multiplayer each hold their own challenge. The levels are the same for both modes, but single player you have lives, and every 5 levels completed, you gain a life. Mutiplayer you work as a team to beat each level while also competing for points by destroying the enemy tanks. (Multiplayer would be way more fun if you got lives like in single player, as the levels are tough and only having one chance before having to start back at level one when you both die at level 17 is very annoying) There are 20 levels to start and then more are unlocked the 2nd time through. (I've heard there are 100 levels) Use the nunchuk to steer if you have serious intentions, as the d-pad only works so long before your thumb feels awkward. Controls are decent and the game overall is extremely fun and challenging for 1 or 2 players.

Billiards: Wii play is worth owning just for this game alone. The physics are quite realistic and the gameplay is nice. Standard 9 ball rules, however to win you are awarded points per ball minus fouls. It would have been better to have whoever sinks the 9 ball legally win, but you can choose to play that way mentally before you start a game and ignore the points in multiplayer. The only problem I have is that I would like to be able to see the ball numbers on the overhead view, instead of having to scroll to each ball to see what ball it is. If you know the standard pool ball colors, I guess it wouldn't matter. Overall very fun competition for multiplayer. It seems like they could have easily included an 8-ball variant as well with this. Oh well.

The game overall:
Before you critique this game harshly, understand that its sole purpose is to demonstrate the wii mote, like wii sports. That is why it's a ten dollar game bundled with a 40 dollar wii mote. This game will probably never be sold without the remote, and if it is, expect it to be much cheaper. I give it 4 stars, becuase for what it actually is, it has a lot of multiplayer fun packed in it, especially with 9 ball, tanks, and air hockey. If it was 50 dollars and did not come with a wii mote, it would be a 2 star game, or nintendo would have included more mini games and more depth. This game has longevity with multiplayer as air hockey tournaments and billiards never get old, much like real life. As for improvements, I feel that this could easily support 4 players like wii sports. Also, many of the single player elements should have been included in multi, like getting extra lives in tanks, gaining time in find mii, etc. Billiards should have included 9-ball and 8-ball.

Pros+
Most of the games are decent
Fun multiplayer with longevity
In reality, it's only 10$
Easy but fun controls
Realistic physics in billiards and air hockey
Challenging games

Cons-
Pose Mii is awful
All games could have supported 4 players
Shooting, fishing, and cow race lack depth
Billiards should have 8-ball as well
Multiplayer modes should have the single player rewards like more lives and time

Conclusion:
This is a great buy if you need another remote, and want to have some multiplayer games in your library. If you already have 4 remotes, I would wait until this game is sold without the remote in the cheap bin before you pick it up. This has multiplayer longevity, but you probably won't find yourself playing this game alone.

Does not include the Wii NuChuck
This review is written for parents who are buying this for their kids:

Please note that this package does not include all the controllers you need to add a second player for most Wii games. The Wii Nunchuck is necessary for roughly 75% of the games available for the Wii. Even one of the games in Wii Play, the Tank game, requires you to have a Wii Nunchuck for all players... which means if you only bought this package in order to add a 2nd player you would still not have all the controllers you need for two people to play it. They probably didn't add the NunChuck to this package because it would've raised the price to $70. Beyond that, I have no complaints about the Wii Play games themselves, they are simple and fun and they make for a nice bonus. However, please be advised that you will need to also buy a Wii NunChuck if you are buying this in order to let your child play most of the games on his Wii with a friend.

If you already knew this... please ask yourself if other Amazon users who may find this review helpful and vote accordingly.

Wii Remote + Shareware Quality Game = Overpiced Wii Remote
I highly advise against buying this. Allow me to expalin...

Let's lay out the facts: A Wii Remote Controller on its own is $39.99. This Wii Remote + Wii Play game is $49.99. In essence, you are paying $39.99 for the Wii Remote and the remaining $10 for the game packed in.

Since you could just buy the remote separately what you really need to know is: "If I want another Wii Remote, should I pay an extra $10 for the Wii Play game?"

The answer is NO.

The Wii Play game is a collection of mini games in the vein of Wii Sports. The catch is that this time the games have far, far less appeal.

While we have logged countless hours on truly fun games like Wii Sports, Rayman Raving Rabbids, and Mario Party 8, it took my wife and I only about 20 minutes to play through the entire Wii Play collection and not a single mini-game left us wanting to play it again. In fact, each game on Wii Play reminded me of cheesy freeware games you can download or play online at "cure for boredom" sites.

If, after reading this, you are still just dying to try it, I say: Borrow it from a friend. No friends have it? Ask yourself why. Then, if you STILL want to play it, go rent it. Spend $5 on a rental and discover for yourself that Wii Play has no "Rii" Play value.

Wii HD Link Component Cable From NYKO Technologies

2009-09-07T02:51:00.001-07:00

Product Description

Experience a new level of graphical clarity on the Wii™ with the HD-Link from Nyko. The HD-Link is designed to provide the best possible video and audio connection for the Nintendo Wii. Featuring high end Y, Bp, Pr component connections, the HD-Link provides full 480p resolution for your HDTV. The shielded 8 foot cable allows for interference-free audio and video in any entertainment setup while providing the best video and audio quality available for the Wii. The HD-Link is ideal for those who demand the most of their home electronics and want the best possible Wii experience.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #56 in Video Games
Brand: Nyko
Model: 87009
Released on: 2007-02-01
Platform: Nintendo Wii
Number of items: 1
Dimensions: 2.00" h x 7.50" w x 9.00" l, .75 pounds

Features

High quality video output for the sharpest, clearest picture
View Wii games in perfect 480p resolution
Extra long 8 foot cable for easy set up connection
Shielded cable for interference-free audio and video
Widescreen support

Customer Reviews

To clear up the 480i and 480p issue.
Some people are reviewing that they can tell the difference between the standard A/V cable that comes with the Wii (Red/White for audio signal, yellow for video signal) and this component cable (same Red/White for audio signal, but three separate video signal cable)...

So I thought I'd explain quickly the different. With one loan video signal cable (stand Wii, out of the box) your highest attainable resolution is 480i. The "i" stands for interlaced. What it means is that the video signal is interlaced into odd and even number vertical lines. You TV displays the odd lines first from top to bottom, then on a second pass, displays the even numbered lines from top to bottom. Then the cycle continues to repeat, refreshing the lines odd, even, odd even and you see "motion." All CRT TV (ones that have a Tube) the display is always interlaced video.

Now, in 480p, the "p" stands for progressive. In a progressive scan the entire image is refreshed top to bottom every pass. Today's LCD and Plasma screens always display progressive video. Because it only takes one pass to complete the entire video image, progressive scanned video tends to have slightly higher refresh rates. In video gaming, this can translate to slightly better image quality and less lag between the controller and the results on the display.

So here is the kicker: for a CRT to accept an incoming progressive video, it has to translate it (internally) to interlaced video. This translation takes time, which in turn adds lag and can slow down the reaction time in gaming. Because of this, any Wii hooked up to a CRT (or Tube) TV should be set to 480i. EVEN if you use component cables.

For LCD and Plasma TVs, any interlaced video incoming to the TV must be translated to progressive video. Like the reverse for CRT TV's this translation takes time and adds lag. The only way to get the Wii to send a direct progressive scan signal to a Plasma or LCD TV is to use a component video cable (2 audio connections, 3 video connections). But once this cable is attached, you must change the Wii options to send in 480p resolution. Once that has been done, you fancy flat display will not need to translate interlaced to progressive.

I've simplified this quick explanation. For the true tech geeks out there (like myself)... please accept that I have tried to put this in non-geek speak (best I could) without going into great detail.

I'm happy - excellent cable, sharp picture!
I decided to give these cables a shot since they were half the price of the official Nintendo component cables, and audio/video cables are a product well-known for some companies (you listening, Monster?) seriously trying to rip off consumers. I found these cables to work wonderfully; despite some other opinions, I think they make a significant improvement in picture quality, well worth fifteen bucks if you have an HDTV to hook your Wii up to. When compared to the composite cables that come with the system, object edges are really sharpened up. You don't need to pay $30-$50 for quality component cables. Highly recommended!

Works great; important for latency reasons
I bought these cables due to them being cheapest at the time, and they work fine.

To those stating they can't notice a performance difference, it's true that the picture quality is almost the same. However, if you're going to play your Wii on an HDTV, I would highly recommend component cables due to the fact that using the AV input on an HDTV requires it convert the incoming signal, which adds lag to the display. Not noticeable usually with something like a DVD player, but with games the added latency is very noticeable between your button press and the reaction of the HDTV. The difference between AV and Component lag was very noticeable in my experience (I tested this with Mario Galaxy on a ViewSonic 19" HDTV).

Although, if lag is your biggest concern, best to just use an old crummy non-flatscreen TV, as they still have the quickest response times (even vs. component) in my experience.

Nintendo 2000 Points Card (DSi or Wii) From Nintendo

2009-09-07T02:50:00.000-07:00

Product Description

Nintendo's Wii Points Card is a monetary payment system for Wii downloads. The Wii Virtual Console allows owners to download a library of games for an incredibly low price. By simply entering the Wii Points Card code into the Wii onscreen menu, you can get classic games from the past, games for the NES, SNES, Nintendo 64, Sega Genesis, and Turbo Grafx-16.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #544 in Video Games
Brand: Nintendo
Model: RVLAPCD
Released on: 2009-04-05
Platform: Nintendo Wii
Dimensions: 7.00" h x 3.00" w x 10.01" l, .15 pounds

Features

For use on the Wii Shop Channel or the Nintendo DSi Shop Channel
Redeem Nintendo Points to download additional games, features, and items
Points have no monetary value and cannot be redeemed for cash
Use of points will be restricted by any Parental Control settings active on your console
A broadband internet connection is required

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
Get the most out of your Wii or DSi gaming console with a points card that allows you to access the Wii Shop Channel through the Wii console or the Nintendo DSi. Shop through the Nintendo DSi and then redeem Nintendo Points to download additional games, features, and items. Once you have downloaded a Virtual Console, WiiWare game, or items from Wii Shop, they will appear as a channel within the Wii Channel menu. Once you have downloaded games or items for DSi, they will appear as a channel within the DSi Shop Channel menu.

Things to note about the Nintendo Points Card:

For use on the Wii Shop Channel or the Nintendo DSi Shop Channel
Points are valid for use in the United States and Canada and may be used on either the Nintendo DSi or Wii systems
Points from the same card may not be shared between two systems
If you have an unused Wii Points Card, it is possible to load that points card on a DSi system instead
You must have a compatible controller type to play Virtual Console and WiiWare games

How to use the Nintendo Points Card:

To redeem on the Wii console, start the console and proceed to the Wii Shop Channel. To redeem on Nintendo DSi, start the system and proceed to the Nintendo DSi Shop.
Select the option to add points.
Select the option to redeem a Nintendo Points Card.
Scratch off the silver area on the back of the card to reveal the activation number. Enter the activation number into the appropriate field on the screen.
Choose your items and start downloading.

The Fine Print:
Redeem for software downloads or other available items. Additional hardware accessories may be required to use certain downloaded software and are sold separately. Downloaded software is licensed to you, not sold. The use of this Nintendo Points Card is subject to a User Agreement found at support.nintendo.com. Please review before opening package. Use of Nintendo Points requires broadband Internet service, which is not available in all places. Points have no monetary value and cannot be redeemed for cash. All points and software downloads are only for use on a single system and are non-refundable and non-transferable and may not be divided between Nintendo DSi and Wii systems. Do not purchase if packaging has been opened. Points will not be replaced by Nintendo or your retailer if the Nintendo Points Card is lost or stolen. A maximum number of un-used points can be stored on one system. Please visit support.nintendo.com for more information.

Customer Reviews

The Correct Price (finally) for a Great Product
I'm writing this review for two reasons.

1. To balance out all of the negative reviews because of the price. Amazon has finally priced this at the $20 it should be, so there's no need for those negative reviews anymore.

2. Because of all the great games for WiiWare and the Virtual Console (currently, there isn't much to buy on the DSI). We all know about the scores of excellent classic games for all of the old systems on the Virtual Console. But WiiWare is proving to be truly impressive. Its home to extremely fun and innovative games that couldn't have existed without digital downloads. Among the greats are World of Goo, Swords and Soldiers, Mega Man 9, Toki Tori, and Bit.Trip:Beat. And many more promising games are on their way such as Icarian:Kindred Spirits and Cave Story. Also, now that they've added easy access to games stored on the SD card, you shouldn't need to worry about space constraints.

Oh, and a side note to Amazon.com: Please make download codes for more WiiWare games like you did for World of Goo. Its very convenient.

DSi Points card - 2000 - Love it!
Hello I'm an autistic adult gamer.

This is my review on DSi Points card - 2000 points.

Well I buy my DSi points card from GameStop every couple of months & load the points onto my DSi then download what ever game I want in the DSi Shop. Now there isn't a real lot to exciting to really want to download for a game just yet probably because the system is still relatively new.

If your going to download any little DSi games from the DSi shop here are my favorites:

Web Browser - Free
FlipNote Studio - free
Brain Age: Express Math - 800
Brain Age: Express Art's & Letters - 800
Brain Challenge - 800
Dr.Mario: Express - 500
Mario VS DK: March of the Mini's - 800
Asphalt 4: Elite Racing - 800
Pop+Solo - 500
Guitar Rock Tour - 500

Games to avoid if your an adult: (I would not recommend these titles these are ones I downloaded thinking would be fun & turned out to be really childish & some lame. My advise don't download them your wasting your points & time on these games below.)

Art Style Series (AVOID ALL TOGETHER)

I tried Art Style: Aquia - 500 (Was very dissappointed with the game.)
Sukdoku Student - 500
WarioWare: Snapped - 500
Mighty Flip Champs! - 500
Paper Airplane Chase - 500
American PopStar - 800 (Recommend for kids in middle school going into high school in my opinion)

Happy Gaming!

Very convenient
You can buy some games, there is not a lot of variety, but they are cheap.
Just I buy it to see if it could buy himself more interesting games, but it was not this way, I would not buy it again

Official Nintendo Wii Wheel

2009-09-06T05:05:00.001-07:00

Product Description

The Wii Wheel transforms the Wii Remote controller into a steering wheel that feels natural in anyone's hands, while the Wii Remote and Nunchuk controller offer a classic control style for the Mario Kart veteran. In either configuration, players can perform speed-boosting tricks with a shake of the Wii Remote.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #49 in Video Games
Brand: Nintendo
Model: RVLAHA
Released on: 2008-04-27
Platform: Nintendo Wii
Number of items: 1
Dimensions: 2.25" h x 7.50" w x 8.25" l, .68 pounds

Features

Wireless Racing Wheel
Precision Control
Adjustable Steering Sensitivity
Requires a Wii Remote Controller (not included)
0.63 Lb.

Customer Reviews

Can't bring myself to keep using it.
My 10 y.o. son and I have been ripping through Mario Kart Wii and love it. I bought the game and this extra controller having high hopes. I must say that after a week of playing MKW with and without the Wii Wheel, far and away we both keep going back to the wiimote and nunchuk combo. I come home from work and the boy is playing and I ask him why he is not using the wheel. He replies that it works ok, but the wiimote works better. He is not known in this house for really giving things a good try and run something through its paces. So being the dad I am and that I spent the money on the extra one. We played each evening when I got home for work and every day he kept wanting to go back to the wiimote. I too broke down and stopped using the wheel. I am not sure why I do not like it just yet. Perhaps it is the poor ergonomics. maybe the familiar comfort of the mote and nunchuk combo, I am not sure. Maybe it is just the game and with another racing game it would be great. Regardless, be warry of it. Do not buy this extra wii wheel just because you got the game and both people want to play. Try out the wheel that comes with the game and see if you like it. If you do try the mote and nunchuk combo and see which you like best. Your mileage may vary.

A nice themed holder to have for any racing fan...
With the release of Mario Kart Wii, this new Wii Remote holder is going to be a hot item, especially if you are planning on racing against others in said game on your Wii.

But lets face it, all it is, is a plastic holder that is shaped like a wheel that your remote snaps into. And thats all there is to this accessory. Its nothing more then a holder shaped like a wheel to house your remote to give you the feeling of using a steering wheel while you play a racing game. So realize that going into the purchase that its just that and nothing more.

At least though the price is right and reasonable for the most part. This is not must get though as all the games this will be for I'm sure will play just fine without it. But it will add a little extra something that the already gimic like remote provides for the Wii. This just takes that remote factor an extra step by giving the illusion and feel of a wireless steering wheel that you can hold anywhere and use to race on a screen far away.

The choice is really yours. If you want to have the feeling of playing a racing game on the Wii with a wheel in your hands, this will work quite well for that. If its not that big a deal to you and you are fine with either a classic controler or the wii remote and nunchuk, then this isn't that important a purchase to make. But I do think this adds something of a element to things that is worth the small one time investment it will be.

Again its just a personal choice. Its just a plastic mold, when push comes to shove. But I think its fun device either way that is a nice addition to the Wii family of accessories.

Surprisingly Useful
The concept of a Wiimote wheel was just plain hilarious. And very easy to poke fun of. Why do you need a plastic wheel that's detached from anything? Are you going to drive with it at the top of your head? Then there's the fact that they went through 20-iterations or so to design the wheel. And then you can go on and on about how complicated is it to design a wheel. It's not like they needed to reinvent the wheel.

But then I actually used, and surprised surprised it was fantastic. It felt natural to use the wheel and the wiimote together. It's comfortable and the response was just seamless. It was especially useful at keeping me from over steering as I wont to do in previous mario kart game. So yes, the wheel is definitely worth it. I don't know how people with different hand sizes feel about the wheel, but it perfectly suited mine.

Mario Kart Wii with Wii Wheel

2009-09-06T05:04:00.002-07:00

Product Description

Start your engines and race with Mario and his friends with their finely tuned racing machines in Mario Kart Wii. Use 3 different control styles with the Wii Wheel included in the box. The worldwide race is on with a whole new set of tricks, tracks, and ways to play. Mario Kart Wii draws on courses and battle arenas from every game in the series - not to mention tons of new ones. The true king of the Mushroom Kingdom racing circuits will finally be crowned. Experience new tracks, enhanced Wii graphics, extraordinary gameplay and much more. Place first in Grand Prix circuits or clear skill-based missions to open up increasingly difficult and thrilling circuits. You can have multiplayer races on any open courses or battle in arenas. Now you can feel like you are Mario and steering to avoid obstacles and doing incredible stunts.

Special Powers/Weapons/Moves/Features - Shake the Wii Remote to pull off a trick that will temporarily boost your speed. When riding a bike, gain additional speed by flicking the Wii Remote up and popping a wheelie Up to 12 people via Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection or up to 10 people via Wi-Fi Connection with 2 people playing locally

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #25 in Video Games
Brand: Nintendo
Model: rvlrrmce
Published on: 2008-04
Released on: 2008-04-27
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Platform: Nintendo Wii
Original language: English
Subtitled in: English, German, French, Italian, Spanish
Number of items: 1
Dimensions: 3.00" h x 7.50" w x 8.80" l, 1.10 pounds

Features

Wii Wheel must be used with a Wii Remote (Remote not included)

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com

Drivers, start your engines!

Nintendo is bringing Mario and his friends with their finely tuned racing machines back and this time to the Nintendo Wii. With 3 different control styles and a Wii Wheel included in the box, Mario Kart Wii is bound to be the best in the series. The worldwide race is on with a whole new set of tricks, tracks, and ways to play! Place first in Grand Prix circuits or clear skill-based missions. Mario Kart Wii draws on courses and battle arenas from every game in the series – not to mention tons of new ones – the true king of the Mushroom Kingdom racing circuits will finally be crowned.

Wii Wheel Included!

New Intense Tracks and Tricks
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Cool new car designs
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Mario and his friends are back and ready to race once again in Mario Kart Wii! Experience new tracks, enhanced Wii graphics, extraordinary gameplay and much more! Place first in Grand Prix circuits or clear skill-based missions to open up increasingly difficult and thrilling circuits. Players can have multiplayer races on any open courses or battle in arenas. Also included with Mario Kart Wii is the Wii Wheel! Now you can feel like your Mario and steering to avoid obstacles and doing incredible stunts - in the safety of your home of course.

Game Features:

The Wii Wheel transforms the Wii Remote™ controller into a steering wheel that feels natural in anyone's hands, while the Wii Remote and Nunchuk™ controller offer a classic control style for the Mario Kart veteran. In either configuration, players can perform speed-boosting tricks with a shake of the Wii Remote.
Players can race as their favorite Nintendo character, or even as themselves! Mario Kart Wii lets players race with their personalized Mii™ characters. And racers will see other Mii characters they have created cheering from the sidelines on some race courses.
Players can compete with up to three friends in their living room. Or challenge up to 11 opponents via Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection in the biggest Mario Kart race yet. All tracks and modes of play are available via Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, and players can visit the Mario Kart Channel to compete in tournaments, check rankings, see when their friends are playing and download ghost data.
Cruise new tracks and arenas or tour classic courses from Super Mario Kart™, Mario Kart® 64, Mario Kart®: Super Circuit™, Mario Kart®: Double Dash!!™ and Mario Kart® DS. Tired of riding on four wheels? Bust out one of the new motorbikes for special tricks and techniques.

Characters
Nintendo favorites Mario™, Luigi™, Peach™, Yoshi®, Donkey Kong®, Wario™, Bowser™ and Toad™, plus a host of new faces-including your own! Get into the game and put your Mii™ character behind the wheel.

Special Powers/Weapons/Moves/Features
Whether racing around an obstacle-filled track or battling in an arena, drifting and tossing items are the keys to Mario Kart success. Players can shake the Wii Remote while launching off a ramp to pull off a trick that will temporarily boost their speed. When riding a bike, players can gain additional speed by flicking the Wii Remote up and popping a wheelie

Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection:
Keeping in the tradition of Mario Kart, Nintendo has pushed multiplayer racingeven further utilizing the Wii's built in Wi-Fi Connection. There are two options for races and battles over Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection: up to 12 people via Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection or up to 10 people via Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection with two people playing locally.

Customer Reviews

Great family arcade style game.
I have never owned a Mario Kart before so can't compare to the other versions but this one for the Wii is a fun game. I was worried before I bought that the Wii wheel would not work very well. I was way wrong, I think it works very well.

The tracks and game play are a lot of fun for someone of any age. The game is easy to learn for beginners and is fun for the more experienced gammer. The game reminds me of something you would play at an arcade with all kinds of things going on as you drive through the course. Playing against friends is a lot of fun a well.

I tried out the on line play and it was a blast. I just had fun compared to some of the xbox/ps3 on line racing games where it can be stressful trying to compete and listening to angry 13 year olds.

If you are looking for a game that is fun for the family, especailly the kids, I would pick this one up. Its easy to learn and a lot of fun to play.

Ruined by exclusively single-player unlockables
I feel really torn about this review, because there are elements of this game that are really, really fun and elements that are the bland, boring results of some horrifically awful game design decisions.

Let's start with PROS:

The maps are well-thought and nicely implemented, and there's a reasonable amount of variety, especially when Mirror Mode becomes available.

Controls aren't terrible, even though the wheel can be a bit annoying at times, and the vehicles are all pretty nicely balanced. I can see the merits of using any one of them, really.

It's pretty addicting. My fiancé and I play this all the time, and haven't really gotten tired of it yet. Though the Battle modes aren't the same as in earlier games, they're still quite a lot of fun.

In fact, multiplayer in general in this game is a lot of fun (though more than two players requires a TV of at LEAST 50 inches, and sometimes the network can be a little spotty if you're playing online, especially when playing with someone on the other side of the continent). It's a great game to play with other people.

Which leads me to the CONS:

As with the offerings of most developers these days, the game is designed such that over half the playable content is locked, and you have to spend hours or days of your time unlocking it all to actually be able to play it. The concept in itself isn't really that terrible, and if implemented intelligently can add hours or days of fun and enjoyable gameplay. Unlike with, say, Super Smash Bros Brawl, however, Nintendo seemed to be in a frantic gallop to implement unlockables in Kart in the most annoying fashion imaginable.

See, in Brawl, there are multiple options for unlocking characters and content. That is, you don't have to sit there grinding for hours and hours by yourself -- you can play with one or more friends and all have a good time with the game while incidentally unlocking various things in the process. Not so with Mario Kart Wii: Unlockables are an exclusively single-player experience. Of course, since Kart seems to have always been oriented toward multiplayer -- and the Wii seems no different in this respect -- it just gets boring and annoying and frustrating to have to SIT THERE FOR HOURS BY YOURSELF UNLOCKING THINGS.

And this is my biggest gripe with the game. I adore playing it with other people, and like I said, it's a great multiplayer game. But whenever I sit down for a lengthy grind session to unlock the last few bikes and karts and characters, I can feel my interest in the game drain away and my frustration and rage explode like some kind of nuclear doomsday device.

It's not that I suck at video games, but the random chance that makes multiplayer races fun (like getting hit with FIVE BLUE SHELLS IN A SINGLE RACE) can result in your having to play the same sets of courses ten times apiece to unlock some bike. And when you're playing on your own, the whole "SKILL DOESN'T MATTER - RANDOM LUCK WILL EVEN THE SCORE" element of the game just becomes infuriating. It's fun when your friend does it, but when some computer does it, all they're doing is forcing you to ceaselessly replay the same courses by screwing you up and keeping you from placing first or whatever else it is you need to do to unlock whatever random object.

It quickly stops being fun when it's just AIs being jerks and needlessly robbing you of your time -- time that could otherwise be spent playing with a friend instead of marrying yourself to unlocking over half the game's content and in the process becoming so skilled a player that your friends don't even want to really play with you anymore because you always win.

In summary, good game, but really, really a step in the wrong direction with the unlockables. Next time, Nintendo should really consider throwing in some multiplayer alternatives.

Racing To The Checkered Wii Flag
Undoubtingly, Nintendo has really showed more muscle within their games for the Wii this past year. With games that really stretched beyond the imagination for fans like Super Mario Galaxy, which re-defined Mario alone in adventures, and the battle smashing action of Super Smash Brothers Brawl that dominated fans hearts all around the worls, Nintendo really shows what it takes to make great video games. But, that also can be said with the Mario Kart series, which finally makes it debut on the Wii. But, following the innovation that Mario Kart DS had from the Nintendo DS wasn't so easy, largely because it was the first DS handheld title to use the Wi-Fi online gaming to an outrageous excitement for gamers all around the world. Now, it is time for the Wii to take that on and race to the checkered flag.

Mario Kart Wii for the Nintendo Wii, brings in all that fast-paced excitement racers have wanted and even more. The game adds a whole lot of new and exciting features to use. You can now race as many as 12 racers online through the online gaming, and bring the action over the top, and use that skill and excitement on over 40 different tracks: 10 battle tracks and 32 exciting race tracks that are both new and featured from the earlier Mario Kart games like D.K. Jungle Highway and Sherbet Land from Mario Kart 64. The new tracks are also exciting that will have you racing and bouncing on top of mushrooms from the all-new Mushroom Gorge, and have you crusing the shopping malls and racing down fligts of escaltors with the brand new Coconut Mall course, or racing across the tree trunks of the new Maple Leaf Highway. Every single track is great for beginners and die hard Mario Kart fans of all ages.

The gameplay also has a few new surprises, as you not just rave in karts, you also get to race on motorbikes too, bringing more action and variety to each of the players delight. There are also a few new power-ups here too including the Mega Mushroom, from the DS game New Super Mario Brothers, which makes your racer giant-sized, so you can squash your opponents on your way to the checkered flag, and the lightning cloud which shrinks you down to a tiny racer, so you squeeze underneath your opponents and take them by surprise. There also are a few new characters here to unlock in the game as well. You can choose to race with the classics like Mario, Yoshi, Bowser and Luigi, and 6 hidden characters to unlock and master like Rosalina from Super Mario Galaxy, Funky Kong and Diddy Kong from Donkey Kong Barrel Blast and even Bowser Bones (the skeleton Bowser boss from New Super Mario Brothers.)

The control is also a bit new here, with the use of the Wii Wheel. The wheel is easy to setup and hooks right onto the Wii remote. You can steer your racers easily through each and every race by turning your wheel left and right, and performing nifty stunts like a wheelie or a 360 on a jump. While the control with the Wii Wheel takes a lot to get used to for veterans, there are others ways to control the game. Like Super Smash Brothers Brawl, gamers can also use the Wii & nunchuck controls, or the classic controller and even the Nintendo Gamecube controller, so veterans can feel more comfortable in anyway they want to race. The graphics here are also well-designed, by bringing new excitement in restoring the classic courses, and a lot of great surprising new features that are the delight to anyone who loves the Mario Kart games.

All in all, Mario Kart Wii is definitely one of the best games I've ever enjoyed for the Nintendo Wii. I absolutely loved the need for plumber speed, and it shows in each and every race. This is definitely a must buy for your Wii video game library, that is sure to be a thrilling race and not even close to wiping out anytime soon. So start your Wii-motes, because the race is not ever going to stop.

Graphics: A

Sound: A-

Control: B for the Wii Wheel; B+ for the Wii & nunchuck controllers, A for the Classic and Gamecube Controllers

Fun & Enjoyment: A- for solo gamers; A for multiplayer action

Overall: A-

EA Sports Active

2009-09-06T05:04:00.001-07:00

Product Description

Revolutionize your workout regimen with EA SPORTS Active, the ultimate interactive fitness program that's designed for you. Get fit with a holistic approach to fitness that combines nutrition and lifestyle factors, with a variety of activities, all from the convenience of your living room. From customized routines that target upper body, lower body, and cardio to a guided 30-day challenge that tests muscle endurance, coordination and agility, stay in shape with fitness made fun and easy.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #44 in Video Games
Brand: Electronic Arts
Model: 19045
Published on: 2009-05
Released on: 2009-05-19
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Number of discs: 1
Platform: Nintendo Wii
Number of items: 1
Dimensions: 2.57" h x 7.64" w x 9.48" l, 1.00 pounds

Features

Game includes a deep co-operative multiplayer game mode.
Engage in fitness made easy through 20 minute circuits feature a variety of familiar activities that target upper body, lower body as well as cardio.
Follow the guidance, motivation and training tip of your very own virtual personal trainer.
30 day challenge' of tailor made 20 minute workouts, that change as you progress each day, and track calories, intensity and progress throughout your journey.
Gameplay/workout options are extended with the included Nunchuck strap and resistance band accessories, and compatibility with the Wii Balance Board (not included).

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description

Developed in collaboration with fitness expert Bob Greene, best known as Oprah's personal trainer, EA SPORTS Active provides a fun, inexpensive and easy to maintain regimen designed to encourage physical fitness and healthy living. A combination of a wide variety of interactive activities and exercises, linked together into an ever-changing circuit training routine targeting the muscles of the upper and lower body, as well as providing cardio for a healthy heart, it is the perfect exercise option for every member of a modern household.

Easy to follow personal trainer.
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Strength training via resistance.
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Use leg strap for cardio.
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Gameplay
Designed around the standard Wii Remote/Nunchuck tethered controller configuration, EA SPORTS Active's interactive fitness program is more focused on physical activities than previous 'fitness' titles for the Wii, but still challenges you to have fun while developing a more healthy lifestyle. Separated into the three sections of workout, nutrition, lifestyle, and other activity, the user's experience begins with a pep talk from Bob Greene which quickly transitions into the beginnings of action as players set up profiles, choose a virtual personal trainer and enter baseline data like age, weight, gender, fitness goals, etc. Although the nutrition, lifestyle, and other activity sections add a holistic element facilitated by a mix of surveys and data input, building fitness through physical activity is the driving force behind EA SPORTS Active and as such the meat of the content resides in the workout section. Here players will find dozens of themed strength training and cardio workouts which can be customized as you choose and linked into circuit traning routines. These routines are introduced and monitored by your personal trainer, and allow for ongoing player motivation via real-time feedback on your workout form, an approximation of calories burned and the ability to adjust levels of exercise intensity.

Accessories
Although activity in EA SPORTS Active flows exclusively through the combination of the Wii Remote and Nunchuck controllers, it also utilizes a few additional accessories to maximize the functionality of this configuration. The first of these included with the game is the controller leg strap. By attaching this to their upper thigh and then slipping the Nunchuck controller into it, players can utilize the Nunchuck controller's motion sensing capabilities while it is connected to the Wii Remote to monitor their leg movements. This allows for cardio exercises like jogging and cardio boxing and strength training activities like squats. Also included with the game is a resistance band designed to increase the intensity of a variety of exercises such as bicep curls and shoulder presses and lifts. In addition, although not included, the Wii Balance board is compatible with many EA SPORTS Active workouts, but only as an optional added controller configuration.

Key Game Features:

Active Fitness Made Fun & Easy - 20 minute circuits feature a variety of familiar activities that target upper body, lower body as well as cardio. Start off with a light jog, followed by bicep curls and get your heart beating with some cardio boxing.

Benefit of a Virtual Personal Trainer - Your trainer will be the focal point of the experience guiding you towards your own version of personal achievement. Feedback will be given throughout your workout, keeping you on track to reach your fitness goals.

The 30 Day Challenge - Take the 30 Day Challenge and experience tailor made 20 minute workouts to your level of fitness. Circuits will change as you progress each day, and EA SPORTS Active will track calories, intensity and progress throughout your journey.

New Way to Play - Slip the Nunchuk into the specially designed leg strap and hold the Wii Remote in your hand to track your movements from both your upper and lower body. A resistance band is also included to increase the intensity of exercises such as bicep curls and shoulder presses.

Workout Your Way - Circuits can be customized to your interest and fitness level. Choose your duration, intensity level & set your own goals for calories burned and workout score.

Workout with a Friend - Burn calories with a friend as you both workout through routines together in a co-operative mode.

Track Your Progress - Expand your Fitness IQ and keep track of your workouts inside and outside of EA Sports Active with the in-game Journal.

Wii Balance Board Compatibility - Get more out of your EA SPORTS Active workout using a Wii Balance Board with added functionality for many of exercises.

Co-op Multiplayer Mode
Along with its single player experience, EA SPORTS Active also features a deep and entertaining two-player cooperative gameplay mode. Designed to tap into the time tested motivational factor of having a workout buddy beside you as crunch through reps and up your personal best, regardless of a player's current fitness levels or future fitness goals, this mode is sure to enhance the level of fun of players at all levels.

Working the triceps.
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Co-op gaming with friends.
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Feel the burn of cardio boxing.
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Customer Reviews

Finally a workout game that REALLY works me out!
Initial Impression
Wii Active is AWESOME! AWESOME!! I was holding out big hopes for this game because while I love wii fit, golds gym coach and my fitness coach, this game offers full use of the wii motion controls and balance board for feedback. If you do not have the balance board, the game is just as useful.The balance board makes some exercises more "total body" and intense but the game was designed to be used without it. This game is honestly what I thought I was getting when I bought the wii fit! This game is more of a gym style workout consisting of strength exercises with resistance, cardio, and sports drills. There is no yoga in this game nor is there any abdominal work (which I find kind of strange because they were pretty thorough with everything else).

Intensity/Sports Drills
I just finished my second full 40 minute workout and it was great! I feel like I just came back from the gym. I was very surprised by how much I enjoyed the sports drills.I dont enjoy the tennis or baseball on wii sports. But the sports drills on Active are really intense, you actually have to jump to do volleyball serves and the motions are exactly as they are when you play the game.

Sports included are Baseball (pitching and batting and catching), volleyball (serving, bumping and setting), Basketball (so far I've just seen shooting and passing), Skating (with leg lifts), Tennis (serving, fore-shots, volleying,backshots). Basketball shooting involves twisting to grab a ball and then making a jump shot. It really gives a virtual reality feel to sports exercises. During kickboxing you are able to use the balance board to kick the heavy bag and do knee ups which really got my heart rate up. During running exercises, you are placed on a track and the game has you alternate between running, walking, knee ups, and kick ups. I really felt as though I had a coach with me. I used to work out with a personal trainer and this really had the same feel.

Balance Board Use
You ARE able to use the balance board with this game. For the sports drills it made me (uncoordinated as I am) less accurate but it did incorporate more total body usage. For instance, in baseball when you catch you do a side lunge before you reach up or out to catch the ball. There is an option to use the balance board with all the sports drills. I havent seen any resistance exercises that used the balance board though.

High Intensity Exercises
There are some hi-intensity or slightly more advanced strength exercises included such as jumping lunges, jumping squats, squat and hold, side to side jumps, bicep curl with shoulder press, bicep curl with kickback, lateral raise with row, etc.

Setup
After setting up the resistance band and leg strap (easy, took 2 minutes tops) I had to set up a profile. There was great variety on how personalized you can make your avatar look with very cool outfits to choose from. It doesnt let you really change the height of your avatar or age (in appearance) so when I set up avatars for my kids, they looked like adults. You set your goals such as how many calories you want to burn over a period of x number of days, how many workouts you want to complete per week or month, and how many hours you want to workout per week or month. I was surprised it didnt include weight loss goals but then I guess it would have to assume you have the balance board and it tries to stay away from that.

30 Day Challenge
I chose the 30 day challenge simply because it seemed like the quickest way to get started. The range of activities was really astounding and I enjoyed the entire workout. It was great to have the game give feedback on form. Before you do every exercise the first time, it automatically shows you a video on proper form. While I was familiar with most of the exercises, the videos are useful because it shows you how to hold the remote for each exercise. You can skip them if you really want. After you watch them the first time, you don't have to see it again. The exercises included cardio, sports drills, resistance upper and lower exercises and track. Even if you choose the 30 day challenge, you can still just select individual workouts as well, but I found the challenge to be a great motivator because it will take me through all of the exercises...not just my favorites.

Pre-Set/Customized Programs
You can also choose from more than 50 pre-set programs such as 30 minute lower body, 20 minute sports drills, 40 minute whole body, 60 minute upper body hard or easy, 40 minute cardio only, athletic exercises, 30 minute low-impact, 50 minute hi-impact and many others. Literally, I don't see potential for getting bored with your exercise routine anytime soon with this game. You can also create your own program by just picking the exercises you like. You can customize it further in that you can choose the duration and intensity for each individual exercise, and intensity and length of total time that you would like to work out for. It sounds like a lot of choices, but it was very simple and I created a very kid-friendly program in about 4 minutes.

Multi-Player Mode
The multi-player mode works really well also. It is best to have the additional player accessory kit but I found that most of the sport drills and upper body strength exercises only require that the second player have a remote and nunchuk anyway so even without it, my kids and husband are able to work out with me. My husband said he would work out with me with the Active because it looks like a real workout (He thought my wii fit and my fitness coach were cute). He was especially impressed with the sports drills.

Bad Knees/Problem areas
The great thing about it is that if you have a weak area or injury, such as bad knees, you are able to see all the exercises you will do in either 30-day challenge mode or pre-set mode and if you can't do those exercises, you can simply uncheck them. I have bad knees and so I uncheck some of the jumping exercises. It would have been nice if you could set that up in your profile and it simply took those exercises out of your program but being able to select or deselect them day-by-day is probably more flexible.

Age-Appropriate
For those of you who wonder if small children would like it, my kids (age 3 and 5) were able to do the sports drills with me like tennis and baseball very easily (they don't fare so well with the wii sports version). Since the game is not trying to simulate actual playing, all they had to do was swing the remotes at the right time. They didnt have to worry too much about moving to be in the right place.

Final Anaylsis
I honestly am in Love with this product! Of course I could make suggestions for improvements, (everything can be improved on), but I really think they did an superb job with this. This is what I thought the wii fit game was going to be from the beginning! Since this game focuses more on a gym-style workout, combining it with the balance, core and strength exercises from wii fit and the yoga and variety from my fitness coach really enables me to get a full and varied workout.
However, if you don't own the other games, honestly I would recommend getting this one. It just gives me a more realistic workout feel.

Tips
1. the resistance band that comes with the game is either light or medium. For those of you who would like to increase this, just purchase stronger resistance bands and use those instead. This really increased the intensity of my workout.
2. Make sure you insert the nunchuck in the holder face down toward the floor or else your mii positioning will be backwards (ie your mii will be squatting down when you are standing upright)
3. It takes some getting used to positioning the remote and nuncheck in the right way for each exercise so that it can properly evaluate your movements....watching the videos, even if you know how to maintain proper form in the gym, is recommended. Dont get frustrated, the game has been pretty accurate as far as I have seen, you just have to make sure you hold the remotes as they tell you to.
4. Those of you who would like to work out with weights or cords versus bands can incorporate that for certain exercises on your own (the game doesnt say anything about this...this is just what I noticed while working out). Things like shoulder presses, bicep curls and squats with ankle weights would work fine with this game.

Wow what a workout!!
Ok, so I was hesitant about spending $60 on a workout game when I already owned three of them - all exclusively for the Wii. After my first 50 minute workout though I can truthfully say that this trumps all of them. It is like Gold's Gym, the Wii Fit, and My Fitness Coach all rolled into one. After my workout, which included everything from boxing to dancing to running to shooting hoops, I was sweating profusely and feeling great!

What I liked:
- Like the Wii Fit, it incorporates the Balance Board.
- I get to pick my exercises - unlike on the My Fitness Coach
- The graphics were good, the track, courts, etc. actually made me feel a little like I was actually there.
- The running was everything the Wii Fit running was not. It counted my calories and seemed a little more responsive that the Fit.
- I appreciated the feedback I received when doing the stretching exercises... This I missed in the My Fitness Coach- there was no sensor to tell me if I was squatting to high, not jumping in the right rhythm, etc. With EA SA the control that was strapped to my thigh was able to tell the game when I was not doing something right - giving me the opportunity to correct my form.

- I also like the fact that you can work out with a friend.

Cons:
The resistant band is weak - for me anyway but that can be easily corrected with a inexpensive trip to Wal-mart.

I discovered that I may also be buying a wireless nunchuck... the wire was constantly in my way.

It doesn't track my weight loss.

It's not really a con but I wish there were step aerobics. It could have easily been worked in.

Overall impression: I'm glad I broke down and paid the $$$ for this game. It far surpasses My Fitness Coach, the Wii Fit, and Gold's Gym (though I will probably continue to use Gold's Gym for the boxing routines and the wii fit to track my weight loss). It's hard core, but I feel it will definitely give me my desired results.

Too Sweaty To Type
I had my EA Active delivered today and I was itching to try it out because I quickly became bored with the Wii Fit games that focused mainly on balance and weight.

It was very easy to get set up. I configured my workout person to look a little bit like me although I hope I am a bit cuter. I kind of wish that they had child avatars for my kids who will play this soon, but that isn't my biggest need.

I chose to work out on a medium skill level for the 30 day challenge. I'm not ultra fit by any means, but I'd like to think that I could run a mile or two if someone was chasing me. At the beginning of my workout, I started to think that I wasn't being pushed enough, but by the end, I was sweating like a big dog -- which was great. I believe my perception was caused by learning each movement before I started which gave me rest time. At the middle of my workout, some of the prior activities came up again and I was able to go right from exercise to exercise and that's what I like. This is so much better than the Wii Fit.

I did the running, punching, inline skating (super fun and a killer), side lunges, squats and front shoulder raises for my first workout. Every exercise was entertaining. It did take me a little bit to get used to how you hold the remote, but now I'm a pro. I did do the "couch test" where I placed the remote on the couch to see if the avatar would do the exercise anyway -- which it didn't -- unlike some other fitness titles. It really does mimic your movements, which I like.

Time for a shower and I can't wait for day two of my challenge. I can assure you that you'll like this game if you put the work into it. The couch won't do it for you. :)

Wii Fit

2009-09-06T05:03:00.002-07:00

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #21 in Video Games
Brand: Nintendo
Model: RVLRRFNE
Published on: 2008-05
Released on: 2008-05-21
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Platform: Nintendo Wii
Number of items: 1
Dimensions: 3.10" h x 13.20" w x 20.50" l, 10.00 pounds

Features

Wii Fit comes with the Wii Balance Board and requires a Wii console to play. Wii console sold separately.
Wii Fit combines fitness with fun and is designed for everyone, young and old. Wii Fit players work towards personal fitness goals and they block soccer balls, swivel hips to power hoop twirls, and go big on ski jumps to get themselves there.
Check your daily progress, set goals, check your Wii Fit Age, and even enter exercise time you've done outside of Wii Fit.
Wii Fit Age is measured by factoring the user's BMI reading, testing the user's center of gravity and conducting quick balance tests.
Training is at the core of Wii Fit. You can spend as much (or as little) time as you want trying out all of the 40+ activities Wii Fit offers.

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
The active-play phenomenon started by Wii Sports now spreads to your whole body thanks to Wii Fit and the pressure-sensitive Wii Balance Board, which comes bundled with it. Used together players will experience an extensive array of fun, dynamic and surprisingly challenging activities, including aerobics, yoga, muscle stretches and balance oriented games. The focus of these activities is towards providing a "core" workout, a popular exercise method that emphasizes slower, controlled motions, but it's the fun approach to fitness of Wii Fit that will keep players hooked on fitness for years to come.

Have fun while you get fit

The Wii Balance Board.
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Calculate your BMI and Wii Fit age.
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Enjoy a wide variety of mini-games.
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Follow your own personal trainer.
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Track your progress against friends.
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The Wii Fit Balance Board
The primary tenet of Wii Fit is balance. Your center of balance, the point between your left and right sides when you stand upright, has a lot to do with your health. Those without an even center of balance will be unnaturally compensating for this imbalance, which causes their posture to become misaligned, increasing the possibility of putting unnecessary strain on their bodies. This is where the Wii Balance Board comes in.

Similar in appearance to a step aerobics board, the Wii Balance Board is much, much more. Easily capable of supporting weights up to a maximum of 300 pounds, it is sturdy and precise, able to measure weight and register pressure accurately when placed on a variety of flat surfaces. This advanced level of sensitivity allows for both the wide range of activities found in the Wii Fit software as well as the board's amazing ability recognize individual players by their weight alone.

Getting Started: Create a Profile
Before you jump into doing exercises and activities, you’ll start by creating a profile. This is done easily and intuitively by simply choosing a Mii, entering your height and age information, and doing a few quick tests that will serve as a baseline for your new Wii fitness regimen. These tests are:

BMI Check: BMI, or Body Mass Index, is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that is the standard used by agencies such as the World Health Organization and the National Institute of Health. To check your BMI, you’ll enter your height then stand on the Wii Balance Board and let it read your weight.
Wii Fit Age: After you’ve checked your BMI, you’ll do a basic balance test and find out your current Wii Fit Age. This basic balance test measures how well you can control your left and right balance. Based on the results, you’ll be assigned a Wii Fit Age.

Four Categories of Fun
Once you have created your profile it's time to have some fun. Wii Fit features four main categories of exercises to choose from: Strength Training, Aerobics, Yoga and Balance Games. Wii Fit will guide you through the first three with the help of your own virtual personal trainer, while the balance games offer variety and fun to help keep you engaged and excited about your fitness goals. In addition, as you spend time exercising, you’ll earn Fit Credits that unlock additional exercises and activities within your favorite categories that will allow you to continue to push yourself. See more detail on the four categories below:

Strength Training: Put your strength to the test with muscle-toning exercises like Single Leg Extension, Sideways Leg Lift, Arm and Leg Lift, Single-Arm Stand, Torso Twists, Rowing Squat, Single Leg Twist, Lunge, Push-Up and Side Plank, Jackknife, Plank and Tricep Extension. Challenges include Push-Up Challenge, Plank Challenge and Jackknife Challenge.
Aerobics: Get your heart pumping with fun, interactive Aerobic exercises like Hula Hoop, Basic Step, Basic Run, Super Hula Hoop, Advanced Step, 2-P Run, Rhythm Boxing, Free Step and Free Run.
Yoga: Work on your balance and flexibility with Yoga poses and activities like Deep Breathing, Half-Moon, Dance, Cobra, Bridge, Spinal Twist, Shoulder Stand, Warrior, Tree, Sun Salutation, Standing Knee, Palm Tree, Chair, Triangle and Downward-Facing Dog.
Balance Games: Get into the action with fun, balanced-based games like Soccer Heading, Ski Slalom, Ski Jump, Table Tilt, Tightrope Walk, Balance Bubble, Penguin Slide, Snowboard Slalom and Lotus Focus.

Keep Track of Your Progress
Because keeping fit is an ongoing process, Wii Fit also tracks the activities you do the most and puts them into your Favorites category. With this information players can note exercises and activities that they are strong in, as well as others that may need to improve at. Some of the ways players can use this information for are to:

Keep tabs on your daily progress with easy-to-understand graphs and charts. Using your personal profile, you can set goals, view a graph of your BMI results over time, see how many Fit Credits you’ve earned, check your Wii Fit Age and even enter exercise time you’ve done outside of Wii Fit. It’s all about coming back and exercising a little every day, and the personal profile makes tracking your daily progress simple and easy.
Quickly check your Wii Fit Age and BMI without even putting the game in the console by going directly to the Wii Fit Channel.
Allow up to eight family members can create their own profiles in Wii Fit. On the profile-selection screen, everyone in the family can see each other’s recent BMI progress and Fit Credit total. This will allow families to have a friendly competition to exercise and get fit.

Variety, fun and progress tracking; Wii Fit has it all. So, Wii owners if you ready to reclaim your balance and get fit all you need is Wii Fit, a few minutes a day to play and the urge to have fun. Get on board today.

Customer Reviews

Own a Wii? Are an adult? Don't have time but want to stay fit? Then BUY THIS!
I own the Wii Fit since last week. I'm 32, 1.76m, ~82-84kg (fluctuates) and with my wedding coming up in a few months I wanted to lose some weight. I work all day and have little time in the evenings so the preparation and driving to and from the gym was too much. I wanted to use that 30-40 min to exercise, not prepare for exercise. I own a Wii since Xmas and decided to try this out after reading various reviews on the internet. Is this as good as going to the gym? No it does not replicate a gym. Will it get the job done? Will it keep you fit and help you lose weight? YES YES YES! I love it and highly recommend it. I get a great work out in 45 min. I feel great about myself, and have already lost a kilo. (note I have not changed my diet). Notice I get my work out in as much time as it takes to commute and prepare for gym. I also have more fun than going to the gym on my own. Perhaps going to a gym with a friend would be more fun. Depends. Anyway I love the Wii Fit! Note it takes a few times to get used to it and figure out how best to use it. Why? Well there is no prepared program for you. You have to decide on your own what you want to do and in what sequence. I start off by doing the aerobics (jogging, holla hoop) and then vary. Basically, the Wii Fit breaks its exercises into Muscle, Balance, Aerobics, and Yoga. I mainly doing the Aerobics and mix in some muscle and yoga. The muscle and yoga can be really tough. You wouldn't believe how much. You can really feel the muscles working. I do the balance exercises when I'm tired and want to relax a bit in between exercises. They may help with balance but are more of a game than anything else. The more you exercise, new exercises open up. In other words, you start of with a limited about of stuff to do and slowly you get more and more. Don't listen to the few negative reviews you may read on the internet. They were probably biased against the product before even trying it. This product costs a little more than going to the gym for a month (at least in my country). By the time I unlock all the exercises, I will have exercised more than a 1-month gym subscription, burnt more calories, and will have a fun game left too! Compared to nothing after a month at a gym. I highly recommend this. As I explained, you are getting more than your money's worth, having fun, and getting fit.

Wow!
Addictive. Hard. Rewarding. Fun. Tiring. Frustrating. Amazing.

Too many adjectives, I know, but Wii Fit is all of those things.

I was impressed when we bought a Wii for our daughter last Christmas. Now I'm thrilled. Finally, a video "game" that seems tailor made for me! I've only had my copy of Wii Fit for a few days now, but already I can tell that if any piece of home equipment is ever going to help me get back in shape, this is it. Setting it up is hardly tougher than slipping in a DVD, and, unlike the Total Gym I once had, it makes you feel young just using it.

The first thing you do is weigh yourself by standing on the included wireless "Balance Board." After that, everything seems more like a game than a workout, but after 30 minutes with this thing I was sweating just as much as I do at the gym. There are four types of exercises: aerobics, balance, strength training, and yoga. Lasting from a minute to 10 minutes each, specific virtual activities include boxing, hula-hooping, jogging, push-ups, some very fun snowboarding action and this funky tilting game where you push balls into virtual holes.

Back to that balance board. You'll hate what it tells you about yourself, but love that it told you. Besides your weight, you learn your Wii Fit Age, a figure that combines your weight, body mass index and sense of balance. As you exercise, the program tracks your progress, or lack of it.

My only two complaints: the voice that speaks to you is little-kid cute, and there are no pre-set workouts.

If you're like me, you buy a lot of video games for your kids. If you can find it, buy this one for yourself. I got mine at list price, but I'd say it's worth about $150.

Adjust your expectations and you'll have a lot of fun
First of all, remember that this is *not* a "game". Its a way to get your 40 minutes of daily exercise without making it feel like a lot of work.

What this means is that you probably won't buy this for your under-11 year old. Before you start the "game", you are asked for an objective ... in terms of how many pounds you want to gain/lose. Whether this question is meaningful for your child depends on many factors - and other reviewers question the use of the BMI measure for kids, anyway.

The only true game component of this are the "Balance Games" which turn your balance board into a snowboard, or into a tightrope, etc. However, I don't expect kids to return to this game everyday just to play. In short, its not a replacement for Wii Sports.

So, how does it fare as an exercise regimen?

Not very well so far. I use an elliptical for aerobics, and a [...] machine for strength training, and I can't see myself as shelving those two in favor of this toy. With the elliptical, I can adjust the resistance, get feedback on my calorie burnout, and can determine how long I want to keep going. Best of all, I can even watch TV, listen to music, or read a magazine if I care to.

With the Wii Fit, the cutesy graphics are good, but once the novelty wears out, I'm guessing the chinks in its armor will begin to show. My TV is taken up by my virtual Mii running along, I get to listen to canned music, and there's really no way I can read along.

Strength training is purely isometric exercise based (such as push ups). So, if you're fairly fit and need to work with additional resistance, this is not the place to come find it.

Yoga is where it truly shines. I tried the breathing exercises and a few of the postures, and the instructions were fairly detailed and easy to follow. I expect that I'll use this as a cheap and convenient personal yoga instructor for months to come.

The final aspect worth mentioning is core muscle control and balance. I particularly enjoyed learning how my body is balanced, and it does highlight whether you tend to favor one leg over the other. I can see this as being a worthwhile tool as part of a physical rehabilitation or therapy regimen.

To summarize - if you have trouble getting motivated to exercise, or get bored by exercise machines at home, or can't get to a gym, and you don't care about its limitations, then this is for you.

For those who are really serious about losing weight or getting fit, either setup a home gym or get a gym membership. This will be fun, but will likely be a large waste of your time. The biggest problem would be the inability to set up a sequence of activities that you could run through one after the other. Having to navigate menus to start up the next set is distracting. There is a Favorites tab that lets you get close to achieving this - but I haven't tried it enough to see if its a good replacement.

I'm still in the "novelty" phase - so I'm going to try and make this work. I like the way it tracks your weight/BMI, which is much better than the paper and pencil approach I use currently. However, as stated before I expect to use it more for the balance and yoga portions, *after* I've completed my aerobics/strength activities on more conventional machines.

Bottom line - as with every Wii product, the apparent "shortage" drives up demand and makes this seem more desirable than it should.

As long as you are aware of its limitations, you're in the best position to determine whether this is for you.
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Update (Week + 1):
I've averaged about 30 minutes/day in the past week using this product, and here are some updates to my initial observations:

(a) I've been surprised with how interesting the kids find it. They can't wait to get higher scores than me, and are constantly pushing to get ranked higher in almost all activities. Every evening I come home to scores that are better than mine, and am forced to play catchup. The balance games were an expected favorite, but I certainly didn't expect push-ups and the tree pose to capture their fancy.

(b) The menus are nagging at best, and annoying at worst. My workout style is to focus on the activities at hand without needless conversation/distraction, and that's hard to do when I have to repeatedly click the A button just to get started. The text has this annoying teletype format as it prints across the screen, and can't be dismissed until it is displayed in its entirety.

(c) This is compounded by the fact that this device can be very chatty. While some of the messages are good to know, I'd really like the option to turn these off. Counting the number of messages that I need to click past has become a running joke for us now.

(d) Because I can't automatically string together activities in a logical sequence, I need to have the Wii-mote handy. Finding a home for it is a challenge when I don't have pockets, or need both hands for balance and can't be bothered to hold on to it (as in some of the more kinetic strength activities, or the yoga poses that need my fingers locked together).

(e) Even worse is that you need to aim the Wiimote at the screen to click the menu buttons, which is an exercise in frustration. I'm mastering the art of using the arrow keys (the rocker switch) and the A button while the Wii-mote is in my pocket, but its still a problem when I hit the wrong button, which I seem to do frequently enough :(

(f) A yoga/gym mat is a necessary accessory - otherwise having to lie on your back when doing the jackknife for your abs means your flooring comes in contact with a very sweaty T-shirt. I'm not so certain about the silicone cover. We've used ours pretty rough, and I don't see any serious stains or dirt on it. And anyway, I like my workout machines to show some wear as a badge of honor :)

(g) There is a half baked interface which allows me to track activities that I do outside of the Wii - such as jogging. So far, I've been logging my other workouts, but since I don't seem to earn Wii points for those, I can't tell how that factors into the overall Wii experience.

(h) The BMI/weight tracking using a line graph, is really a nice touch.

(i) Rather than a primary weight-loss device, I use it as a nice way to wind down from a heavy workout, and it serves that purpose very well. A commenter below questioned its usefulness for yoga. True, it does seem funny to learn yoga from a game console - but the funnier thing is that the yoga poses do seem to work very well to ease up strained muscles. Combine this with the immediate feedback as to how well you are balanced, especially on single leg poses, and you have a really unique combination.

(j) The balance games are fun, but I tend to spend only a fraction of my time on them. I'm willing to take Nintendo's word that its good for me, but I'd rather spend my scarce exercise minutes on the other Wii Fit activities. After all, there's only so many times I can enjoy riding my bubble to the end of the stream.

(k) The fact that the balance board is wireless is a wonderful touch. Its easy to hide it under the couch when its not in use.

Wii Nunchuk Controller

2009-09-06T05:03:00.001-07:00

Product Description

Contoured to perfectly fit a player's hand, the Nunchuk controller goes an extra step to meet the needs of gamers. It features the same motion-sensing technology enabled in the Wii Remote controller, with an analog stick to assist in character movement. Use it to move your characters and have them perform all kinds of specific actions -- whether it's throwing a pass in football or aiming a ranged weapon in an action game. The ambidextrous nature of the Wii controllers grants accessibility seldom seen in game controllers.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #15 in Video Games
Brand: Nintendo
Model: Nunchuck Controller
Released on: 2006-11-19
Platform: Nintendo Wii
Number of items: 1
Dimensions: 2.25" h x 7.00" w x 9.00" l, .32 pounds

Features

Motion sensor function (3 axes)
Two buttons - C, Z
Uses the communication function of the Wii Remote Control
Size(LxWxD) - 4.45 x 1.5 x 1.48 (113 x 38.2 x 37.5 mm)

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
The Wii Nunchuk controller is a secondary controller that adds even more innovation to the next generation of gaming, and does it all with less physical movement.

Used in conjunction with the standard Wii remote, certain games need the Nunchuk controller for additional control options. Contoured perfectly to fit a player's hand,

The Wii Nunchuk (left) connects directly to the Wii remote. View larger.

the Nunchuk controller builds on the simplicity of the Wii Remote controller. The Nunchuk contains the same three-axis motion sensor found in the Wii Remote, but also includes an analog stick, and two buttons to help assist in character movement.

Many games will allow you to control your character's movement with the Nunchuk in your left hand, while your right hand is free to execute the action movements with the Wii Remote. For example, the Nunchuk is particularly useful for games like Wii Boxing. You can use the Nunchuk to punch with your weaker hand, while you use the Wii remote to punch and jab with your predominant hand.

Take the fun to the next level with two-handed control of your games. View larger.

In first-person shooters, the Nunchuk controller carries the burden of movement, freeing you to aim and fire using a more natural motion with the Wii Remote. In a football game, you can make your quarterback elusive with the Nunchuk controller while you search for an open receiver to throw to using the Wii Remote. Serious gamers may even want to use two Nunchuk controllers to gain a fierce competitive edge.

Because the Wii Remote and Nunchuk controllers are only relatively dependent on each other, players are free to hold them in whichever hand is most comfortable. Perfectly suitable for either right or left-hand use, the Wii Nunchuk controller grants accessibility not often seen in previous game controllers.

Also, the Nunchuk controller doesn't need its own power--it plugs into the Wii Remote controller when it's in use. So there's no need to worry about charging or replacing expensive batteries.

Adding a Nunchuk to your Wii system will definitely help you open the doors to the next level of gaming, and seriously step up performance. Just be careful not to knock out your significant other, or bruise the dog, severely, while using one, or two Nunchuk controllers.

Customer Reviews

Great Add-On for two handed games
In martial arts, nunchucks are a pair of short wood rods connected with a chain that ninjas whirl around their bodies :) With the Wii, the nunchuck is a single controller held in your off hand.

The nunchuck is not the main controller unit for the Wii. The Wii primarily uses the Wii Remote, shaped like a TV remote, for its functionality. The Nunchuck is for use in the "other hand" (i.e. your left hand if you're right handed) just for a few games. It plus into the bottom end of the Wii Remote with a cable that's about 2 1/2 feet long. Most of the time, you leave it unplugged and sitting by the console.

For example, in the sports pack that comes with the Wii, only one of the five games uses the nunchuck. This is the boxing game. You use the nunchuck to hit with your off hand, just as you use the Wii remote to punch and jab with your primary hand.

The nunchuck has the same motion sensing technology as the Wii remote does, so that you can move your hand around and the game knows what you are doing. The buttons are much simpler - there is a Z big trigger button, a smaller C trigger button above it, and then a joystick up on top. For some games, no buttons are used at all.

The cable length is designed so you don't trip yourself with it :) It's long enough that if you held your hands apart, you could easily ride even a wide-handled bike. It's not long enough that you could put both arms straight out to the left and right, though. I've never had any problems with the cable length hindering me. None of the games require you to have your hands far apart. In boxing, for example, your hands are always near each other and there's plenty of cable length even when you're jabbing.

The nunchuck doesn't need its own power - it plugs into the Wii remote controller when it's in use. So there's no worry about charging up or batteries.

I would definitely have at least one functional nunchuck for my Wii, and if you're really into multiplayer two-handed games like boxing matches, then having two would be important. However, for most gamers, one will probably suffice!

A necessary add on for certain Wii games!
If you have a Wii, you probably noticed one of these controllers included with your system. Certain Wii games require you to attach a nunchuk to your Wii remote.

I'll admit that when I first saw the nunchuk, I thought it would be impossible to use two controllers at once so I purposefully bought games that didn't need a nunchuk to play. However, I really wanted the Resident Evil 4 game and it required a nunchuk to play. I bought the game anyway, whipped out my nunchuk, and sat down to play.

I was extremely surprised how easy it was to use both controllers at once. Of course I had a bit of a rough time for the first 15 minutes of play, but from there it was a breeze. The Resident Evil 4 game needs a nunchuk to use the joystick as well as the two buttons because all of the buttons on the Wii remote have uses and the makers obviously needed more buttons. The boxing game that is included in the Wii sports game uses a nunchuk as well. You can simulate the boxing "stance" using the remote and nunchuk. There are quite a few games that need the nunchuk. Don't shy away from games that need a nunchuk because of how complex it looks. I assure you it's simple to use!

If your nunchuk is broken or you need an extra one for multiplayer use, I completely recommend buying this.

Great, but overpriced.
I love the nunchuck. It really adds much to the gaming experience. You can use it like a reel for fishing, especially in the new Twilight Princess. The analog stick is used to control movements. In Wii Boxing, you use it for your weak arm to throw punches. It has its own motions sensors. I love the nunchuck. The only problem is that it is overpriced. When you have to buy the Wiimote for $40, it its a little steep to buy a nunchuck for another $20, especially since most games will require it.

Wii Remote Controller From Nintendo

2009-09-06T05:02:00.000-07:00

Product Description

The Wii Remote Controller makes gaming as accessible to people of all ages and all abilities. Nintendo fused the familiarity of a remote control with the sophistication of motion-sensing technology -- creating a multifunctional device limited only by the imagination. In a tennis game, it serves as your racket you swing with your arm. In a driving game, it serves as your steering wheel. For first-person shooters, the remote acts as your weapon that you point at an enemy. The list of potential uses goes on and on.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #12 in Video Games
Brand: Nintendo
Model: Wii Remote
Released on: 2006-11-19
Platform: Nintendo Wii
Number of items: 1
Dimensions: 1.80" h x 6.75" w x 8.75" l, .60 pounds

Features

Used as a remote, operates up to 15 feet away
Built-in speaker
Rumble
Features expansion port for additional input devices, such as the Nunchuk controller

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description

To make gaming as accessible to people of all ages and all abilities, Nintendo wanted to create a controller that was as inviting as it was sophisticated- the result is the Wii Remote. Nintendo fused the global familiarity of a remote control with the sophistication of motion-sensing technology to come up with an input device that differentiates the Wii from any other console that has come before it.

Revolutionary control
Sporting the dimensions of a small traditional remote control, the wireless Wii Remote is a multifunctional device that is limited only by the game designer's imagination. The magic of the Wii Remote's design lies within; acellerometers inside the controller body measure movement in all directions and at all speeds. In a tennis game, it serves as your racket as you swing your arm for a long forehand or a quick and hard backhand. In a 4x4 driving game it serves as a steering wheel, allowing you to swerve to avoid obstacles or pickup power-ups. In first-person shooters, the Wii Remote acts as a firearm that you can point directly at an on-screen enemy. The list of potential uses is enormous, and the light weight of the Wii Remote allows gamers to play for hours without feeling fatigued.

The Wii Remote boasts impressive technology for such a compact package.

All Wii Remote buttons are accessible and responsive. View larger.

Control many games from up to 30 feet away. View larger.

The motion sensing technology is neatly tucked away within the Wii Remote body.View larger.

The remote feels comfortable in both right and left hands. View larger.

As comfortable as it is functional

The Wii Remote is equally comfortable in right and left hands and houses just the right number of buttons for gaming- not so many that new players will get confused, but enough so that Wii games don't feel constrained. On the face of the remote are the D (or "plus") pad, a large "A" button which is used for major on-screen actions, and two small options buttons. Between the game buttons are a plus and minus buttons (which often act as "forwards" and "back"), as well as a "Home" button to engage the Wii home screen to change settings or check remote battery levels. On the back side of the controller is a trigger-like "B" button, perfect for timing releases of a bowling roll in Wii Sports.

Thankfully, battery life is excellent with the two included AA batteries, just as with the previous generation of Nintendo wireless controllers.

Immersive intelligence

Along the bottom of the Wii Remote, four blue LED lights indicate which player position the remote is currently set to. The controller automatically connects to the Wii console via Bluetooth wireless technology. Below the LEDs, an expansion port lets you connect a number of devices including the Nunchuck and Classic controllers for Virtual Console gaming (Virtual Console games and controller accessories sold separately). Other features of the Wii Remote include adjustable rumble force-feedback and a reinforced wrist strap to ensure safe use. A speaker inside the remote gives the player feedback about the strength of swings or the accuracy of their moves- such as realistic tennis noises as the "racket" connects with the ball in Wii Sports. Overall, the physical design of the remote is extremely sturdy and of very high quality, ensuring countless hours of Wii gaming fun!

Customer Reviews

High-capacity NiMH batteries recommended
The purchase of additional Nintendo Wii Remote controllers are the basic requirement for multi-player games. Strongly consider buying a pair of high-capacity NiMH rechargeable AA batteries along with each additional controller. The Nintendo Wii Remote consumes a lot of power because of the many functions it performs -- the Wii Remote serves as a motion controller, provides power to controller attachments, and generates sound and vibration effects. The included set of disposable alkaline batteries will last less than a couple of weeks for active players (six days in my case). This compares to a battery life of a couple of months for the previous generation of Nintendo's wireless controller -- the Nintendo Wavebird controller for the GameCube.

Many games require the additional purchase of a controller attachment for multi-player mode -- the Wii Nunchuk Controller or Wii Classic Controller, both of which plug into the base of the Wii Remote. In multi-player mode, the Wii Nunchuk is used for two-handed Wii games, e.g., Red Steel or the boxing game in Wii Sports.

The Wii Classic Controller attachment is currently used to play games on the Wii Virtual Console. Held sideways, the Wii Remote can serve as a game controller for all current Sega Genesis, TurboGrafx 16, and Nintendo (NES) Wii Virtual Console games. A Wii Classic Controller or Nintendo GameCube controller is required to play Super Nintendo (SNES) or Nintendo 64 virtual console games.

You may want to purchase a Wii Classic Controller or Nintendo GameCube controller (this plugs directly into Wii Console itself) to play Virtual Console titles anyway. The Wii Remote is diminutive, and a Wii Classic Controller or GameCube controller both offer better handgrip and button placement. Of note, a Wii Classic controller can currently only be used for Wii Virtual Console games, while a GameCube controller can be used for Wii Virtual Console games and all Nintendo GameCube games.

Each "Wiimote" has a nice touch of interactivity, holding up to 10 Mii avatars per remote. You can take your Mii character along with you to play games like Wii Sports on other Wii consoles by taking your Wii Remote along with you.

The one improvement I would make to the Wii Remote Controller would be to add finger nubs. The Wiimote can get a little slippery during gameplay because of sweat. Third-party manufacturers offer latex rubber / silicone controller gloves that fit over the Wii Remote to improve hand grip. I find these gloves are more hassle than they are worth because they are time-consuming, both to put on and to peel back when changing the Wiimote's batteries.

Light, Intuitive, Easy to Use
The Wii Remote Controller is shaped like a standard TV remove, and has motion sensing ability. You wave it around, and your on-screen character waves their wand!

This isn't an add-on controller - this is the actual, standard controller that most if not all games on the Nintendo Wii use as their primary control unit. There is also a "nunchuck" that can be used in your off hand, but many games don't use the nunchuck.

The aim of the Wii was to make gaming as simple and intuitive as possible for the casual non gamer. Pretty much every person with a TV is comfortable using a TV remote. You point, you click. The Wii Remote Controller works in the same fashion. The motion sensors know what you are doing with the remote. If you're playing a baseball game, you swing at the ball. If you're playing a bowling game, you bring your arm back and swing it forward. Everything "makes sense". A sword swing? A light saber battle? Just move your arm and the character does the same thing.

There are only two buttons that really matter. There's an A button on the front that you push for most operations. There's also a trigger underneath that is the B button. Depending on the game, they will have you use one or the other button. There are also a few other buttons for more complex gaming. There's a D-pad. A "home" button lets you go instantly back to the main Wii menu if you're tired of playing. There's a plus and minus button, a 1 and 2 button. There's even a power button. You don't have to walk over to your Wii any more to turn it on or off. Just hit the power button on the remote and you're all set.

The remote runs on two AA batteries, so there's no USB plugging in or charging up, as with the other systems' remotes. You do get a wrist strap, though, so the Wii remote doesn't fly out of your hands while you're doing a super powerful golf swing.

There's even a speaker in the remote! This is great if you're playing a game against another player. Say I'm boxing my boyfriend and I am the winner. *My* remote says that I triumphed, to me. Neat!

I definitely love the Wii remote controller. It's light, it's super easy to use, it's intuitive and I can just pop batteries into it when it runs out, instead of having to wait for a recharge. Highly recommended. Just note that if you want to play a game that needs a nunchuck as well, that you have to buy that separately.

Wii Remote=Great Success
When I first saw the Wii remote I was very skeptical that Nintendo could pull such a thing off, then, after seeing all the hype and others who got a chance to use it say that it was easy and fun, I began to turn a new leaf. I must say that this controller is the best controller I have used in many years. The Wii remote is very sensitive which is great because all the games require a high sensitivity for then to be played to the best of their ability. I currently own Zelda Twilight Princess, Rayman Raving Rabbids, and Excite Truck, each are very unique in their own in which they use the Wii Remote and are great fun to use. They only problem I have is that I can't seem to find a place to buy a second one!

Wii MotionPlus From Nintendo

2009-09-06T05:01:00.000-07:00

Product Description

Simple. Intuitive. Easy to use. Connect the Wii MotionPlus™ accessory to your Wii Remote™ controller to increase accuracy and enhance play control on compatible games. Look on the back of Wii Game Disc packaging to see which games are specially designed for use with Wii MotionPlus. Wii MotionPlus contains additional sensors that make the Wii Remote respond to the slightest movement, motion, or twist of the wrist. Wii MotionPlus must be used with a Wii Remote, which is sold separately. When used with specially designed games, Wii MotionPlus tracks players’ movements in finer detail and with greater accuracy than ever before, building upon the innovative wireless function of the motion-sensing Wii Remote™ controller. Even the slightest twist of the wrist or turn of the body is replicated exactly on the TV screen, allowing users to become even more immersed in Wii game play. Designed for easy attachment to the Wii Remote controller which is sold separately.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #4 in Video Games
Brand: Nintendo
Released on: 2009-06-08
Platform: Nintendo Wii
Subtitled in: German
Dimensions: 8.54" h x 2.09" w x 2.52" l, .40 pounds

Features

Wii Remote sold separately

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
Simple. Intuitive. Easy to use. Connect the Wii MotionPlus accessory to your Wii Remote controller to increase accuracy and enhance play control on compatible games. Look on the back of Wii Game Disc packaging to see which games are specially designed for use with Wii MotionPlus. Wii MotionPlus contains additional sensors that make the Wii Remote respond to the slightest movement, motion, or twist of the wrist. Wii MotionPlus must be used with a Wii Remote, which is sold separately.

Wii MotionPlus Compatible Titles:

Virtua Tennis 2009 – SEGA
The world’s top tennis stars are hitting the courts again this May in SEGA’s Virtua Tennis 2009 for Wii. Now every swing is more precise and the action is more intense, thanks to the Wii MotionPlus. Other updates include brand new courts, a new roll call of tennis stars to compete against and even more court mini-games.

Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 10 – EA Sports
From EA Sports, experience a near perfect 1:1 swing with the Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 10 bundle, featuring Wii MotionPlus. Elevate your game with an enhanced, true-to-life golf swing that features precise draw-fade capabilities and authentic sports motion.

Grand Slam Tennis - EA Sports
Can’t get enough tennis? Excitement is in full swing with Grand Slam Tennis from EA Sports. Compatibility with the Wii MotionPlus accessory makes it possible to spin your racket and control your in-game player with superior responsiveness and control.

Wii Sports Resort - Nintendo
Just as with Wii Sports, people will love competing against friends and family. As the competition heats up, Wii Sports Resort is as much fun to watch as it is to play. First-time players will find it easy to pick up a Wii Remote and jump into the action. A wide range of activities will keep players coming back for one more round. Some sample activities include Sword Play, Power Cruising (racing a personal watercraft ) and Disc Dog, which involves accurately tossing a disc to a cute, Mii-like dog.

Customer Reviews

A great addition to the Wii gaming experience
Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R3NJPOOHGAS7ZC I've only tried the Wii MotionPlus with one game so far, Virtua Tennis 2009 but the MotionPlus enhanced the sensitivity of the Wiimote and made it more responsive when playing this game. It seems to sense the turning and direction or your hand better than the Wiimote alone and I thought it made the Virtua Tennis game more realistic and enjoyable. It gives you that little bit extra to play the game.

I recorded this short video so you can see how it attaches to the Wiimote. As you can see, when it's on you don't even notice that it's there. It isn't big or clunky like some of the add-on's to make the nunchuks wireless that I've seen.

I liked the addition of it with this one game and I'm looking forward to trying other games as they're released.

Update 6/21/09 - I had a chance to try the Wii MotionPlus with a friends new Tiger Woods Golf game and the difference between the game with and without the Wii MotionPlus is pretty amazing, probably even more so than with Virtua Tennis. It's much more fine tuned than last year's game.

Pretty cool, but has some problems
The motion plus definitely makes the games more fun - I really enjoyed the sword fighting in Wii Resort.

That said, there is one serious issue. When I first fired up WII Resort, I thought it was interesting they kept harping on how to recalibrate the motion plus. Eveytime a game starts. Everytime you move to a new level. If it doesn't feel right recalibrate.

Well the reason for that becomes evident if you play any of the 'intenser' games, ala sword fighting. The controller quickly becomes uncalibrated. This is expecially bad in the horde sword fight levels - it simply starts getting out of sync after 5-10 enemies. I have to recalibrate it every 3-5 minutes.

And before anyone says 'hardware issue' I purchased two of them. I have two remotes. Every combination exhibits this issue - it's highly unlikely both of my motion pluses have a failure.

This is a pretty glaring problem in an otherwise very cool addon - and honestly is extemely disappointing to me as the sword fighting possiblites is where I was most interested in it. I sure hope it's something that can be addressed in the future via a software patch, but I have my doubts.

Wow...you don't know what you are missing until you get to experience this!
My honey and I got to experience the Wii Motion Plus when we were part of a fitness segment on the local news here in Austin. (I was in the orange shirt and jeans, Austinites!) We were able to try out new games coming out, the new remote, and fitness dvds and rate them for the show.

One of those games was Grand Slam tennis. On the Grand Slam tennis (and 2 other games for some reviewers) we were allowed to play it with the Wii motion plus and without for comparison. The ones who did the Tiger Woods compatible game thought that made the best difference. We mostly played Grand Slam tennis and Sports Resort for the newscast so I will start there.

WOW! Personally, I went into this segment thinking the addition of "more motion" seemed a little silly. (I was wrong) I originally thought my new wireless Wii remote was all I needed and had no need to for improvement.

Again, I will admit when I am wrong.

There was a huge difference when we played with the Wii Motion Plus (and it was a unanimous decision of all players who got to try out this new addition to the wii remote) that it's a positive movement in game play controls. Very positive. There are subtle nuances of movement that the original Wii remote simply was unable to pick up...even bends of the wrist and ways of gripping and other movements that aren't picked up at all until you try this control that completely changes what you can do during gameplay. It also made the tennis racket (ok, the Wii remote) FEEL more like a tennis racket via the length BUT mainly via how it truly pinpointed for my Wii character every movement I did so that I could make the ball do different things that would actually happen on a real tennis court. I can't imagine how far this will take gameplay on future wii games now that it can pick up so many more movements of the gamer!

Better yet? It offers a 1:1 response rate so you now have better game play via response time as well.

It completely takes you from your living room into the body of your Mii. And, as creepy as that may sound...it totally changes what you thought was the norm for gaming and actually makes it far more interesting.

For those who got to try out the Wii Sports Resort with the MotionPlus, it was a true test to see frisbee and sword fighting with this new remote. It picked up those bends of the wrist as you are about to throw a frisbee that otherwise would have been a mute action with the original remote...changing your wrist and moving the remote above your head or to your waist to throw...all were in total sync with the mii because of this. Swordfighting would have been entirely different if those wrist movements were eliminated that this remote allowed.

As far as realism, this seemed as much like a magic wand as it did a new controller. Things that didn't show up in game play when we used the "old school" remote with no motion plus attached suddenly came to life when we used the motion plus. It is quite the break-through, and quite the invention for us Wii game lovers who love to get moving with realism!

That said, there is a negative to keep in mind that I couldn't go without mentioning, as much as I adore this new remote. It works well on the games that we played MADE to go with this remote that we tried but should you not wish to purchase this remote, what happens with future games coming onto the horizon? It is my understanding that many will be produced that can ONLY be used with this remote in future games which may make this a piece you'll be required to have in order to play your Wii games properly at all....If so, that is a negative for those who don't want to foot the bill for a new controller. Also, could the extra sensitivity be TOO sensitive in some games? Just a thought...picking up every subtle nuance of movement...could that make some games more frustrating? We'll have to wait and see the comparison on how it works in comparison during MANY games rather than the handful we got to play with.

Update to this review as of today, June 8th: It looks as though many of the newer wii games compatible with this new attachment will INCLUDE one Wii motionplus when you order it, (good deal there) with the exception of Grand Slam tennis. (not sure why...I guess because of the earlier release date?) Therefore, if you only need one motionplus you may not need to order the attachment at all as it may be included with the compatible games such as Tiger Woods Gold or Sports Resort if you plan to purchase those. However, if you wish to play a partner but only want to purchase one of the compatible games or want the full experience of Grand Slam tennis that doesn't include the motionplus, THEN you'd need to order the motionplus separately.

CONCLUSION: This remote will bring your gameplay to a new horizon and better realism and response time at wharp speed. However, if you are not a fan or don't wish to have to purchase this new remote for partner game play or for grand slam, you may be out of luck in the future as new games are developed that may very well not work nearly as accurately without the motionplus. I also doubt it will continually be offered free with some games...So, for those, this is a negative development to be considered if you don't want your Wii to be "old school".

Best bet seems to buy one of the newer games being released that come with the wii motionplus, or buy a couple and you instantly get your game AND enough motionpluses to utilize partner play without having to buy one in addition to the games,

p.s. take about 10 minutes to get used to this thing. Just like the first time you used the regular wii or played any sport for the first time, let yourself get used to it and then you'll see it's power when you take it off and play a game without it! At first, I was so used to the old control that I really had to "learn" this one. Like going from a bicycle to a motorcyle. Takes a moment, but you sure go faster in the long run!

wii best buy ( Wii by Nintendo )

2009-08-17T10:09:00.000-07:00

Wii
From Nintendo

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Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #8 in Video Games
Brand: Nintendo
Model: NINTENDO
Released on: 2006-11-19
Platform: Nintendo Wii
Number of items: 1
Dimensions: 4.50" h x 10.00" w x 15.00" l, 7.50 pounds

Features

Plays two disc formats in a single, self-loading media bay
Features a processing chip from IBM and a graphics chip from ATI
Backwards compatible with all Nintendo GameCube games and most peripherals
Built-in Wi-Fi access for easy connection to Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection gaming service
Wii Sports game included

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
Nintendo's Wii video game system (pronounced "we") brings people of all ages and video game experience together to play. This simple yet ground breaking idea is expressed not only though the system's evocative name, which is easily pronounced in a variety of languages, and suggests two players side by side, but also through its innovative list of features and extensive list of playable titles.

Wii with Wii Remote. View larger.

A Little Box With Plenty of Power
As with every console, much of the buzz surrounds the specs. The Wii boasts 512 MB of internal flash memory, two USB 2.0 ports, and a slot for SD memory expansion. The system’s technological heart -- a processing chip developed with IBM and code-named "Broadway" and a graphics chipset from ATI code-named "Hollywood" -- deliver stunning performance. And instead of a tray, Wii uses a single, self-loading media bay that plays both 12-centimeter optical discs used for the new system, as well as Nintendo GameCube discs.

Revolutionary Control
No bigger than a small traditional remote control, the wireless Wii Remote is a truly multi functional device. The magic of the Wii Remote's design lies within; acellerometers inside the controller measure movement in all directions and at all speeds. In a tennis game, it serves as your racket as you swing away. In driving games it serves as a steering wheel, allowing you to swerve to avoid obstacles or pickup power-ups. In first-person shooters, it acts as a firearm that you can point directly at an on-screen enemy. The controller also has a force feedback "Rumble" feature and an expansion port for use with accessories, such as the Nunchuck, which adds an analog thumbstick and trigger buttons. The system allows for up to four controllers to be linked at a time and utilizes standard Bluetooth wireless technology. For those who prefer the feel of a traditional controller an adapter is available that fits over the Wii's remote.

Wii with cradle. View larger.

A Channel for Everyone
More than just a game machine, Wii also provides information and entertainment suitable for every member of the family. Some of the channels available include:

Mii Channel - Miis are cute little caricatures you create to use as characters in a variety of Wii software. Store Miis on your Wii or load them onto your Wii Remote and take them over to a friend’s house to use on their Wii.
Everybody Votes Channel * - The Everybody Votes Channel is packed with national and worldwide polls. Answer interesting questions and have your say. Up to six members of your family can vote. Just choose an answer and check in later to see the results.
News Channel * - Wii might be great for games, but you can also use it to get updates on the latest news from across the Internet organized into easy-to-browse categories.
Forecast Channel * - Your Wii can automatically update you on the weather from around the globe.
Wii Shop Channel * - Download the Opera web browser and access games from classic consoles from the past. All you need is a Wii Points account.
Virtual Console - Every Virtual Console game you download from the Wii Shop Channel appears in the Wii Menu as a separate Channel ready to select and play any time you like.
Wii Message Board - Leave or receive messages for other family members on the calendar-based message board or use WiiConnect24 to send messages to people outside your home.
Internet Channel * - Just download the Opera browser for 500 Wii Points and within minutes, you’ll be a professional sofa surfer, pointing-and-clicking your way around the web with your Wii Remote.
Photo Channel - Show off all your digital photos on your TV. Just insert an SD memory card into your Wii and away you go.
Disc Channel - The Disc Channel is backwards compatible with Nintendo GameCube, so you can play all your new Wii discs, along with all your classic Nintendo GameCube discs too!

Wii Sports. View larger.

Wii Sports is Included
This is what video games should be: fun for everyone. Wii Sports offers five distinct sports experiences, each using the Wii Remote controller to provide a natural, intuitive and realistic feel. To play a Wii Sports game, all you need to do is pick up a controller and get ready for the pitch, serve or that right hook. If you've played any of these sports before, you're ready for fun!

GameCube controller and memory ports.

The Depth of the Nintendo Game Catalog
Each Wii comes with a game compilation called "Wii Sports," including tennis, golf, baseball and bowling games, that show off the console's intuitive new controller, but Wii also plays games developed specifically for it as well as fan-favorite games from Nintendo's 20-year-old library. Its drive is compatible with GameCube discs, and select Nintendo titles from the original NES of the 1980s all the way through the Nintendo 64 are available for download through the "Virtual Console" for $5 and $10 respectively. To support this backwards compatibility the Wii includes four ports for classic Nintendo GameCube controllers and two slots for Nintendo GameCube Memory Cards. As if that weren't enough, the Virtual Console will also make available a few titles from SNES console contemporaries, Sega Genesis and TurboGrafx 16.

Also, Wii utilizes Nintendo's newly-announced wireless feature, WiiConnect24. This worldwide feature allows players to receive content such as Wii Message Board messages sent from other Wii consoles, Miis, e-mails, updated channel and game content, and notification of software updates even while the console is on standby, keeping the fun going even when you are not online.

What's in the Box:

Nintendo Wii Game Console
one (1) Wii Remote controller with Wii Remote Jacket
one (1) Nunchuk controller
Wii Sports
sensor bar
power cord
standard composite cable
stand

Customer Reviews

An Inexpensive Gaming Console for the Whole Family
The Nintendo Wii is the most inexpensive of the current generation of gaming consoles. It provides motion sensing controllers and 480p graphics. We tested the Wii before its launch day (I'm a game reviewer), and we had our own unit in our home the morning of launch day. Here are our findings.

The Wii is designed around a menu of "channels". There is of course the game-playing channel, where the Wii will play any Wii or GameCube game. Simply load the disc in and go. There is a Mii channel where you set up a profile and avatar to connect to all your game playing. The Photos channel lets you look at photos on your TV. Other channels for news, weather, and online shopping require an interent connection; the news and weather were not actually working at launch time.

The system does NOT have a regular network cable port, which both the PS3 and XBox 360 have. Instead, it works with built in wireless or with a USB network adapter. I am a firm proponent of wireless - less clutter! So I am thrilled that they offer wireless automatically. With the PS3, you have to pay extra for the 60 gig unit to get this built in. The XBox 360 requires extra hardware as well.

It's hard to generalize gameplay on any console - it really depends on what games you buy. That being said, the comes-with-it software of Sports is really quite fun and is about as basic as you can get. You swing at baseballs, lob tennis balls, bowl, box and play golf. A "fitness" mode puts you through a variety of tasks and then calculates your fitness age, sort of like how Brain Age keeps track of your mental age. If you did both every day, you could aim to be as fit mentally and physically as possible!

In a world where video games = couch potato, it really is quite amazing to have a game where it natively expects you to move and be active. You don't lounge back and gain pounds here while playing games. Boxing can be quite strenuous, jabbing, blocking and weaving in real life. Tennis involves quick reflexes and strong arm movements. Bowling might be the most relaxed of the sports, but even there you are standing, moving, swinging. You get your heart going at least a little, and get some exercise. My boyfriend had a sore arm after playing for a number of hours, in a good way, as he would from exercising.

The 480p resolution is certainly not high def 1080p like the other two systems. It's something you accept when you're paying such a low price for the console. But really, it's not that big a deal. I still play the old Zeldas and love them for their gameplay, even though you can't see the pores in Link's face. If they are going for the cartooney characters and environments, 480p is DVD quality and is quite good. If you really, really crave high definition super realism in your games, then the Wii might not be the best choice for you. However, if you're fine with playing games with a more impressionist / cartooney look to them, the 480p can show that quite nicely. For example, there aren't fans in the stands for baseball - there are colored blocks.

Nintendo has always been known as a "Kid's Console" - but I really do think with the Wii that they have become a "Family Console". It's not just kids who will enjoy this. Seniors can have fun bowling without knowing anything "Tricky" about how to use a video game unit. It's very intuitive. Moms can easily play with their kids, each with their own Wii profile. Adults having parties can have fun passing the controllers around. Family groups can share slideshows on the big screen while hanging out and drinking wine. Every person who has come over - from 8 to adult - has instantly understood and enjoyed the Wii, without much explanation at all.

With the price tag being so low, a gaming household that "needs" a higher end system can easily save up their money to get that XBox 360 or PS3 - and still be able to justify to get a Wii for the fun, casual gaming stuff to share with their non-gaming friends.

Well recommended! Since I own all three systems, and am playing all three wirelessly, feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.

================

Update: One year later, and the Wii is still going strong! It's really funny how many people said the Wii would bomb because it wasn't as good as the PS3 or 360 - and here we are a year later and the Wii is still the system that people are really wanting to get. Hospitals are getting Wiis for their patients to play with. Senior centers are getting Wiis for their residents to play games together with. I was just on a cruise ship and they had Wii tournaments going on every day! This is a fantastically fun system that we really enjoy playing with and that literally the whole family can have fun with. There are great games for kids, great games for teenagers, great games for adults. I am really very pleased with how the Wii has held up and the game set available for it.

Update 2: 2 years later! Our Wii is still adored in our household, used just as much as the PS3 and XBox 360. I was just at a bar and they had two Wiis set up for people to play with, and everybody loved them. This really is an "every person's gaming system".

I'm running out of space here, but my nintendo.bellaonline.com site has full articles on exactly what you get in this box, and what else you should buy so you have a full system to play with.

The Wii Remote (Not a Kid)
Since the console has been covered in other reviews, this one will be a little more in-depth about the controller, and only the controller. I hope it can convince you, because it certainly enhanced my gaming experience.
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Wow. That's all I had to say after plugging the Wii in at my home on November 19th. After months of waiting, it is finally here, and for once, this game system actually met and possibly exceeded my expectations. Know before continuing that I'm not a Nintendo fanboy, I hated the Gamecube, own a PS2 and will be buying an Xbox 360. Well, after buying this, I don't know if i will be needing that 360.

The biggest thing about the Wii is it's new controller. Instead of the traditional two-handed gamepad with 2-4 buttons and some analog sticks, the Wii's input system is shaped like a TV remote control. It has a couple of buttons on it, but not nearly as many as the average controller. How can you play complex games with such a simple controller? The answer is motion control.

The Wii's controller has accelerometers inside of it, allowing it to sense when you wave, swing, punch, stab, or shake. It can also interact with a sensor bar placed on top of the television to make a pointer for the TV. For example, to select a menu option, you just point at the option with the remote and click the A button. This creates a whole new gaming experience. It's like one of those arcade games at the local mall, but it works better, and no more 25 cents per turn!

The remote is also very comfortable. For games that would need two analog sticks, such as shooters, there is a connectable perephial with an analog stick and two shoulder buttons, which is called the Nunchuk. In a shooting game, this would handle movement and the remote would handle the aiming. It takes a very short amount of time to get used to, but once you do, it is much more comfortable than the normal controller. You can spread your hands out instead of hunched up, holding your hands together.

The Wii Remote is functional, efficient, comfortable, and smart. It is so much better than controllers of the past, and I hope this is a sign of things to come from Nintendo.

XBOX fan saying it's worth the money and this is the pong game of the new millennium
I have owned almost all of the game systems that have come out except for a few of the Nintendo. I just was not a big fan. These days I'm a huge XBOX 360 fan. When I saw the controllers for this new system I though if Nintendo pulls this off it will be huge for them. I decided to give the system ma try and waited in line for 13 hours at Wal-Mart with my 9 year old daughter. She loved the wait and interacting with all the other people waiting for the release. By the time we got it home that night we were both to tried to hook it up that night so it stay in the box till the next morning. The hook up was easy. I spent the money on 3 extra controllers and nunchucks and Trauma center (which I haven't had a chance to play yet) and Zelda. The game that comes with the unit was one of the smartest decisions by a company I have ever seen. This reminds me of pong back in the 70's when everyone at least tried playing the first video games ,because the games are so easy to play that everyone can and will be talked into playing them. I can't wait to get my 76 year old mother year to play some golf and bowling. We had friends over on Sunday to watch the Bears-Jets game. They are not video game fans to say the least and made fun of me for sitting in line for 13 hours. I talked them into trying the system and then had to talk them into getting off the system because the game was starting and they were having too much fun playing a video game. They apologized to me for making fun of me waiting inline for that long.
I knew going into the purchase the unit was small, but it still shocked me how compact it is. It's a nice sleek design that is simple. The main interface on the unit is manageable and ready for many upgrades. It seemed all of the online features were not available yet except for the Nintendo shop. 10 dollars for a Nintendo 64 game is a little steep. They need to take a look at that. The Mii interface was neat and I had to stop my daughter from creating miis for each child in our neighborhood. The only con I had witht he system was the remotes ran on AA batteries. It would have been nice for them to be on a rechargable system. I'll just have to go get a battery recharger.

Will I stop playing and recommending the XBOX 360. NO, because I still believe the 360 is the best on the market at this time (The Wii could change that in time). But I will be spending less time on it because of the Wii. If you are on the ledge about this system get off and go and find one. It is worth it. If you're looking for a system that the entire family can enjoy this is it. You will not be disappointed.

P.S. If you're going to trash the system without playing it goes somewhere else. People come here for opinions on if this is a good buy for them. Not for some flamer that's close-minded and loves only his playstation or XBOX and everything else stinks no matter what.