Bobinovich
03-Jun-07, 22:06
Now this is gonna sound like a strange recommendation. I'm not a console addict - much preferring the versatility of PC's, but I've had a chance recently to get to grips with a Wii. I don't own one YET but that's sure gonna change ASAP.
Firstly, unlike most consoles, the Wii doesn't come with a standard controller by default - the controller in question is nicknames a Wiimote. I figure these must have some pretty good sensors in 'cos many of the games rely on the angles you hold/way you move the wiimote. It's also got a socket in the bottom which allows you to plug in a nunchuck - sort of a wiimote extension giving additional control/features such as 2 fisted control when boxing!!!
Now the first games we played (Wii Sports) are great for getting to grips with the wiimote - tenpin bowling, tennis, baseball, boxing & golf. Unlike standard controllers, the best way to play is to use the wiimote as your racket/bat/ball, etc. and to stand like you would if you were playing the game for real. It will soon become apparent why the wiimotes have wrist straps on as you REALLY get into the movement and actions required (I managed to smack a light cluster dangling from the ceiling as I tried an overhead smash in tennis!).
...and this is why I think it beats all other consoles hands down. It gets the player(s) off their rear and moving around - its actually great exercise. The kids loved it, and for once I didn't mind them spending ages on 'cos I saw they were moving around, using dexterity not normally seen in a console, and all the time developing worthwhile hand/eye coordination.
The other games played were the Wii Play compliation of 9 games aimed at 3+ years. These required more precise control of the wiimote than the sports - micro-movements instead of swings, but this in itself is not a bad thing as it develops steadiness of hand as well as co-ordination.
As I've said, it's on my wishlist and can't come fast enough!! Roll on my birthday...:~(
Firstly, unlike most consoles, the Wii doesn't come with a standard controller by default - the controller in question is nicknames a Wiimote. I figure these must have some pretty good sensors in 'cos many of the games rely on the angles you hold/way you move the wiimote. It's also got a socket in the bottom which allows you to plug in a nunchuck - sort of a wiimote extension giving additional control/features such as 2 fisted control when boxing!!!
Now the first games we played (Wii Sports) are great for getting to grips with the wiimote - tenpin bowling, tennis, baseball, boxing & golf. Unlike standard controllers, the best way to play is to use the wiimote as your racket/bat/ball, etc. and to stand like you would if you were playing the game for real. It will soon become apparent why the wiimotes have wrist straps on as you REALLY get into the movement and actions required (I managed to smack a light cluster dangling from the ceiling as I tried an overhead smash in tennis!).
...and this is why I think it beats all other consoles hands down. It gets the player(s) off their rear and moving around - its actually great exercise. The kids loved it, and for once I didn't mind them spending ages on 'cos I saw they were moving around, using dexterity not normally seen in a console, and all the time developing worthwhile hand/eye coordination.
The other games played were the Wii Play compliation of 9 games aimed at 3+ years. These required more precise control of the wiimote than the sports - micro-movements instead of swings, but this in itself is not a bad thing as it develops steadiness of hand as well as co-ordination.
As I've said, it's on my wishlist and can't come fast enough!! Roll on my birthday...:~(