The State of the Wii Console Today
The big splash that was the Nintendo Wii console a few years back, has clealry subsided. "Real" gamers proclaimed its many faults (like lack of hi def video resolution, and the fact that it was based on the kiddie-style Game Cube), even as millions of non-gamers snapped it up to get on board with with Wii Fit balance board and exercise games, families started to play together, and classic ancient arcade style games lured back old timers like yours truly.
But now what's next? Wii fans wonder. Last year, Wii games hit in the top five sellers in North America, the Wii Fit was a huge success, but now what will draw buyers in the next months and years? The holidays are around the corner, so what could be the next big thing for the Wii console?
It's likely to be the games that are the draw. Right now, items like Rock Band have already come out with The Beatles, and Rock Band Green Day Edition is on its way next. For games, Super Mario Galaxy Two has been on the must have waiting list, due to come out in June of 2010. And everyone is asking where is the next version of The Legend Of Zelda, and will Link lose his sword?
Nintendo has come out with some great technology, including the MotionPlus controller accessory, which helps steady a player's use of the controller. This has many applications, but so far, not too many games are taking advantage of it. Swordplay is an obvious use. Nintendo has also hinted at releaseing something like a biofeedback accessory, something that will measure your brain waves. One can only imagine what you could do with that, expecially playing online! Seriously though, biofeedback might lead the world to be a calmer, pleasanter place if we all worked on our alpha state.
We've heard about the Wii console being used in senior citizens homes, and also as part of physical therapy regimens in hospitals and outpatient clinics. But what's next for families? Or serious gamers? The rumor on the street is there will be a high definition add on of some kind coming up. This seems the only way to lure the fanatical gamers (and it probably won't work either). But seriously, Nintendo has made a name for itself getting buyers that would never even have given the Playstation or Xbox a second look. What can Nintendo offer them?
It was good to see that finally, Netflix offered access to streaming video through the Wii, although despite early rumors, Wii was last and not first among consoles to get it. It's fine, if you aren't picky about high definition, works great, except for some timing delays. What can you expect online eh?
And WiiWare is still going strong, with lots of great offerings. (But does Nintendo know how many of its buyers don't even know it exists, and if they do find out, have no idea how to make it work?) Accessing WiiWare and the learning curve involved is probably not getting Nintendo the results it would like.
So far, there doesn't seem to be anything on the horizon for the Nintendo Wii that will take players' breath away. Stay tuned though, and perhaps they'll suprise us.
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Wii Bundles
Wii Console with Mario Kart Wii Bundle - White
Sale Price: $168.00
