Nintendo Wii: The Best Family Console to Date! (Nintendo Wii)

Member Name: Escorcio

Product:	Nintendo Wii
Date:	13/09/09 (22 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Great intuitive controls, awesome party games, easy pick up and play system

Disadvantages: Below average graphics for a "next-gen" console and lack of games for hardcore gamers

The Nintendo Wii has undoubtedly surpassed all expectations in the gaming industry since its launch back in 2006. Breaking through straight to the top of sales in the next generation console war, it has fended off competition from the Sony PlayStation 3 and Microsoft Xbox 360. Being one of the lucky Europeans who got their hands on the console before it sold out on launch day (December 13th 2006) I've had firsthand experience with the console for over 2 years and can provide a fair review on the console as a whole. So without further adieu let's get started.

So, what main features does the Wii have to offer?

The distinct feature that pushes the Wii miles ahead of its competition is its motion controllers. The Wii remotes (or Wiimotes) provide a comfortable and enjoyable gaming experience as well as allowing you to experience the full power of the user interface with ease. Although the Wii doesn't output in full HD like the PS3 and 360 most first party games do support up to 720p for great looking graphics when connected to a HD Ready TV. Games are definitely a strong point for the Wii, having over an astonishing 40,000 games (many of which being multi-platform ports with their added motion sensing twist) as well as featuring full backwards compatibility to the Nintendo GameCube.

But I've heard the multi-media is really bad, can I even watch a movie on the Wii?

Without modifying the console you won't be able to watch movies (on the hard drive nor a DVD) or listen to music. This comes as a real let down to the console as both other next generation consoles allow you to do this. However the easy to use web browser does support flash allowing you to play flash games, browse music sites and even watch videos on YouTube. As well as this the "Photo Channel" makes good use of the USB and card reader slots allowing you to view photos on screen using various slideshows.

Well, what about connectivity?

As I've said the console features 2 USB ports that can be found at the rear of the console as well as an SD card reader slot and GameCube memory card reader. The Wii can connect to most TVs with the use of SCART or composite cables giving you a wide range of compatibility. As well as this the system also features Wi-Fi for easy access to your local network and Bluetooth for the connection of various peripherals.

You mentioned peripherals, so what kind of accessories can I expect?

The Wii has a vast selection of accessories for you to choose from and all for a reasonable price too. When controlling games you can opt for the included Wii remote, or for a more classic gaming experience you can use GameCube controllers. If you're interesting in being a bit more active with your gaming then you can make use of the Wii balance board originally made for use with Wii Fit and has now been implemented into games such as Raving Rabbids and Shawn White's Skateboarding. There are also future plans to further the cross-platform use of the Nintendo DS, just like Sony has done with the PS3 and PSP in Remote Play. This should lead to a more diverse use of both consoles.

When it comes to Wi-Fi, what sorts of things can I do online?

Wi-Fi on the Wii works great with use of the Nintendo Wi-Fi connection service making getting online easier than ever. However if you're looking for a wired LAN solution you'll have to get the USB adapter for it. The two main online services that Nintendo offer are WiiConnect24 and the Wii Shop Channel allowing you to buy games and extra content for download straight to your Wii home screen. The Wii also offers a web browser powered by Opera which has a great user interface for easy and convenient web browsing experience. (Even if it takes a while to operate the on-screen keyboard with the Wiimote!) When it comes to online gaming it has only recently been made popular with first party games such as Mario Strikers Charged Football and Super Smash Bros Brawl both offering online play to Wii consoles around the world.

But considering the console on the whole, is the Wii worth the money?

Without a doubt, the Nintendo Wii is worth every penny! Even though the Wii has had no significant price drop, at around £180 (around $300), and being one of the cheapest next generation consoles in Europe, it's quite a bargain. Although some people argue that it is a fad and will "sit on your shelf gathering dust", the fact of the matter remains that the Wii is a family console, so rest assured that whenever a group of friends or family come around the Wii will be the best choice for entertainment, and with continuous updates and support from Nintendo I'm sure the Wii will remain top of the charts till the next big console.

The Nintendo Wii is genuinely the best family console out there. It beats both the PS3 and 360 hands down in features such as excellent mini-games, family fun and user interface combining to give the perfect gift for the whole family.

If you're looking for a low cost, family, and more importantly fun games console, as well as not being too worried about "amazing next gen. graphics" then the Wii is definitely for you. However if you're a hardcore gamer looking for adrenaline filled high definition Action/Adventure or First-Person Shooter then you'll probably be more satisfied with a PS3 or Xbox 360. Nonetheless the Wii is a superb console and won't be getting old anytime soon.

Summary: A great console providing fun for the whole family and for such a low price, you really can't say no