Thrustmaster T-Wireless Gamepad for Nintendo Wii

Thrustmaster T-Wireless Gamepad for Nintendo Wii Review

Thrustmaster T-Wireless Gamepad for Nintendo Wii Feature

• 2.4 GHz wireless gamepad for Wii
• Radio receiver features a design assorted to the console, with a blue backlit connection button
• Low consumption (AAA batteries), automatic shutdown feature and On/Off power switch for extended autonomy
• On/Off switch enables users to activate/deactivate the vibration feature according to their preference, and offers extended autonomy
• all Virtual Console games: NES, SNES, N64, SEGA MEGA DRIVE, TURBOGRAFX (Pc Engine)

Thrustmaster 2.4Ghz T-Wireless NW Gamepad for Ninetendo Wii. The first wireless, programmable and vibrating gamepad for Virtual Console¿, Gamecube¿ & Wii* games on Wii¿. * 2.4 GHz wireless gamepad for Wii. Connects to the Wii's Gamecube port. 2.4 GHz wireless technology: lag-free transmissions over a range exceeding 10m radius. Radio receiver features a design assorted to the console, with a blue backlit connection button. Runs on 3 AAA batteries (not included), which provide an autonomy similar to the Wii Remote's autonomy. Low consumption (AAA batteries), automatic shutdown feature and On/Off power switch for extended autonomy. Vibrations motor provides force feedback for Gamecube games running on Wii and for some Wii games. On/Off switch enables users to activate/deactivate the vibration feature according to their preference, and offers extended autonomy. Slow & Turbo buttons. For slow-motion or repeated action. Comfortable and non-slip offers optimum grip thanks to the sportswear rubber on handgrips and mini-sticks. Fully programmable. All buttons, mini-sticks and directional buttons can be relocated thanks to the Mapping feature. Fully compatible on Wii with all Virtual Console games: NES, SNES, N64, SEGA MEGA DRIVE, TURBOGRAFX (Pc Engine) all Gamecube games and some Wii games which are compatible with Gamecube controller.

Ultimate Board Game Collection

Ultimate Board Game Collection Review

Ultimate Board Game Collection Feature

• For Play on Your Nintendo Wii
• Published by SVG
• Game Genre: Puzzle, Game Sub-Genre: Board Game
• 12 Classic board game style games Customize each game by selecting different rules, environments, piece type etc. Play against the CPU or up to 6 other players, depending on the game
• User selectable sound track, chose from 4 different styles CPU opponent has multiple difficulty levels Includes 100 different jigsaw pictures

Games included: Chess, Checkers, Backgammon, Chinese Checkers, Reversi, Sudoku, Word Cubes, Jigsaws, Mahjongg, Gomoku, Naval Battle and Quatro.

GameOn Video Gaming Console Storage - Black

GameOn Video Gaming Console Storage - Black Review

GameOn Video Gaming Console Storage - Black Feature

• Can be combined with GameOn's Stash Box Video Game Accessories Storage unit for even more organizational space.
• Provides out-of-the-way, wall or table top mounted organization of all today's hottest video gaming consoles and game discs.
• Side support brackets can be used to hold controllers, instruments, or other gaming accessories.
• Safely supports up to 50 pounds when wall mounted properly and is available in multiple colors including black, green, red, blue, yellow and white.
• Vertical configuration and side "S" holes ensure proper ventilation and minimize the chance of an overheated console.

The Cambre Products GameOn Video Gaming Storage System is an all-in-one storage solution for any gamer that needs help organizing his/her console(s), games and accessories. The wall-mounted storage system supports today’s hottest video game console systems, including Wii, Xbox 360 and PlayStation models, as well as software and accessories to maximize wall space and free-up clutter on the floor. All-in-one console gaming organization. View larger. A centerpiece for family gaming. View larger. Or a personal platform with room for accessories. View larger. Organization Every Gamer Needs The GameOn Video Gaming Console Storage unit readily organizes everything a gamer wants and needs access to in one central, easily mountable location. Its upper shelf stores games, software and chargers while the four side-support brackets organize up to four controllers and/or other gaming accessories such as guitars and microphones. GameOn is available in black, white, green, blue, red and yellow and so is easily coordinated with any decor. "S" Curves Ventilation System The video gaming market has exploded and along with games, there is no end in sight for potential new accessories. It is only natural to group accessories and games around your console, but modern consoles are powerful machines that require ventilation when in use to keep them from overheating. The GameOn Video Gaming Console Storage System addresses this concern in its design. The unit is vertically oriented, and so never blocks your console’s cooling fans and also possesses "S" shaped ventilation holes carved its sides to provide constant air flow. Safety Features GameOn is appealing to both the parents of the younger gamer as well as the adult gamer. Safety features include: the unit's built in ventilation system noted above, durable MDF construction and weight load testing (up to 50 pounds) for wall-mounted applications, as well as safety certified lead-free paint. Coordinating Products The GameOn line of video game accessories also features a variety of other products that work hand in hand with the Video Gaming Storage System. Some of these include: StashBox The GameOn StashBox offers gamers extra storage space to stash their games when space is at a premium. Stash Box can store up to 32 more games or DVDs, mounts to the wall and attaches directly below the GameOn Video Gaming Storage System. The combination of both products allows gamers to instantly gain access to their video game systems, accessories and games all-in-one convenient location to maximize wall space and free-up clutter on the floor. Wire Wraps Wire Wraps are flexible, expandable, wire cover system that quickly transform messy wires into a cool new style worthy of showcasing. Wires can be wrapped in black, green or white or mixed and matched for a custom look. Wire Wraps are flexible enough to hold all cables and even include a corner piece for those hard to reach places. Dirt Rags Dirt Rags are antibacterial gaming wipes that kill germs on both hands and gaming controllers passed back and forth between people. The Dirt Rags formula combines the properties to safely clean all handheld electronic devices including gaming controllers, cell phones, iPods, GPS’, digital cameras and camcorders. The kid-safe wipes contain all FDA approved ingredients and have no alcohol, phenol or bleach, are nontoxic and have not been tested on any animals. Key Features: Provides out-of-the-way organization of all today's hottest video gaming consoles and game discs. Unit can be wall mounted or attached to a table top. Side support brackets can be used to hold controllers, instruments, or other gaming accessories. Safely supports up to 50 pounds when wall mounted properly. Storage unit is available in multiple colors including black, green, red, blue, yellow and white. Can be combined with GameOn's Stash Box Video Game Accessories Storage unit for even more organizational space.

The flagship product of the GameOn(tm) line is designed to be an all-in-one video gaming storage system. GameOn(tm) is your answer to decreasing the challenge of "video game clutter" whether it's in a bedroom, family room or a crowded Dorm room. The GameOn(tm) storage system vertically supports all of today’s hottest video game consoles and can be used on a table top or easily mounted to the wall to free up space. The GameOn(tm) supports up to 25 pounds when properly wall-mounted. The upper shelf stores games and software while the four side support handles organize up to 4 hand controls and guitar accessories. Sleek "S" curves on the sides of the unit provide ventilation to the console when games start to really heat up! Available in your choice of black, white, red, blue, yellow or green to look cool in any room. GameOn(tm) is responsibly finished with safety certified paint and comes with a limited lifetime warranty.

Wii Classic Controller

Wii Classic Controller Review

Wii Classic Controller Feature

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

Needed to play some virtual console gamesAllows the user to play many of the classic Nintendo titles with old-school easeThe thin traditionally shaped peripheral plugs directly into the Wiimote and it combines the best features of the Super Nintendo and Nintendo 64 controllers

Wii with Wii Sports Resort - White

Wii with Wii Sports Resort - White Review

Wii with Wii Sports Resort - White Feature

• Netflix instant streaming functionality allows for thousands of movies, TV shows, cartoons and more right on your TV
• Bundle contents including Wii Sports Resort and the Wii MotionPlus accessory
• Intuitive controller system highlighted by the included motion controlled Wii Remote and Nunchuk (white)
• A wealth of games at your fingertips including those on disc as well as backwards compatibility to all Nintendo GameCube games and most peripherals
• Built-in Wi-Fi access for easy connection to Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection gaming services Wii

Console-based video gaming is one of the most popular of modern digital technologies, cutting across age, demographic and gender divides. Today's players have three dominant platforms to choose from: Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360 by Microsoft. Each is an impressive multifunctional device, with designs meant to encourage integration into existing home entertainment systems and networks, but each goes about this in different ways. Taking a few minutes to examine the main features, and getting more familiar with available options, accessories and possible limitations of each console is the optimal way to determine which is the best choice for the players in a household.

Console Choices

	Wii View larger	PlayStation 3 View larger	Xbox 360 View larger
Models and Pricing (prices may vary)	Wii with Mario Kart Wii - 9	160 GB memory - 0 320 GB memory - 0	4 GB memory - 0 250 GB memory - 0
What's in the Box	Wii console Wii Mario Kart game One Wii Remote Plus controller One Nunchuk controller Wii Sensor bar Standard composite cable and power cord	PS3 console One wireless controller A/V cable for connection to TV USB cable for charging controller Free PlayStation Network (PSN) membership	Xbox 360 console One Xbox 360 wireless controller Composite A/V cable (standard definition) A month free Xbox LIVE Gold membership
Motion Gaming?	Already included	PlayStation Move (sold separately)	Kinect for Xbox 360 (sold separately)
Colors (limited edition colors may be available)	White and black	Black	Black
Drive Type	CD (just games)	CD/DVD/Blu-ray (games, music, movies)	CD/DVD (games, music, movies)
Online Play	WiiWare	PlayStation Network (PSN)	Xbox LIVE
Additional Accessories	Additional controllers - -45	Additional controllers - -50	Additional controllers - -50
Price Range of Games	New releases: ~ - Downloadable: ~ -	New releases: ~ Motion: ~ Downloadable: ~ -	New releases: ~ Motion: ~ Downloadable: ~ -
Backwards Compatibility	Plays all GameCube game titles	Offers compatibility with PS1 games	Over 300 titles developed for the original Xbox console are currently available
Graphic Quality	480p	1080p	1080p
Great For	Designed for Junior to Grandma with titles generally focused on family fun, party games	High-powered and highly customizable system for the technical-minded consumers	Offers a wide selection of games and accessible entertainment, with user-friendly social tools

Arcade, Casual and Party games are a Wii Specialty.
View larger.

Consider Games Before Choosing a Console

There is not just one kind of console video game, and so the machines that are are used to play them are different as well. Considering the types of games to be played, their availability for the consoles being considered and the ability of those consoles' to present the best gaming experience possible for the game's genre and content is important. The games developed for Wii tend to be more easily accessible, family-friendly productions heavily influenced by Nintendo's classic gaming history. Filled with cartoon-like and childlike characters as well as Arcade-style gameplay situations, Wii games are often referred to as "Casual Games," or "Party Games" typified by brief, simple "mini-games." These small games-within-games are tailor-made for players new to the puzzle-solving aspects of gaming and how that is translated through game controllers to the screen by the player.

PS3 and Xbox 360 provide the processing power that Action-Adventure, Shooter, Racing and RPG games need.
View larger.

PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 consoles are the current version of earlier console releases whose user bases were rooted in game genres such as Action-Adventure, Shooters, Racing, Sports, Role-playing games (RPG) and so on. Gameplay developed in these genres tends to require more focus on the part of the player, and more graphics processing power from the console in order to maintain a quality experience. That is what continues to be the main focus of the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. Capable of full 1080p HD quality graphics presentation when used with the proper cables and displays, in this area Xbox 360 and PS3 are far beyond what Wii is capable of. Iconic game franchises like Halo, God of War, Fable, Metal Gear Solid, Gears of War, Killzone, Mass Effect, The Elder Scrolls and many others have grown up on these platforms, feeding off of their power. And with the rise of online multiplayer gaming through Xbox LIVE and PSN the high energy, fine graphical specialties of these platforms only continues to grow.

Motion Gaming

Although motion gaming has been front and center since the launch of the Wii in 2006, the other two consoles have their own motion gaming offerings that provide unique play opportunities on their respective platforms that have also found a wide audience. See a breakdown of the motion gaming capacity of each of the systems below.

Wii Remote Plus and Nunchuk

The Wii Remote Plus controller is the standard wireless controller that ships with each Wii. It combines the intuitive motion controls of the original Wii Remote with the precision technology of the Wii MotionPlus accessory, all built-in to a single unit. The device is handled in a wand-like fashion, and uses internal gyroscope and accelerometer technology to pinpoint the players movements and physical positioning which it then relates into a game via a sensor bar connected to the console. The Wii Remote Plus has only a few buttons making it easy to use. It also contains a speaker, a rumble feature, and an external connector for other input devices like the Nunchuk controller and the Classic Controller.

PlayStation Move

PlayStation Move offers a new and innovative gaming experience for the PlayStation 3 (PS3) system by fusing realistic, high-definition gaming along with accurate, intuitive control. Consisting of a PlayStation Move motion controller, a PlayStation Move Navigation controller (optional in most games) and a PlayStation Eye camera (all sold separately), PlayStation Move enables sophisticated, ultra accurate motion control and immersive gameplay only possible on the PS3 system. In addition, the PlayStation Eye features the ability to process up to 120 frames/second and a built-in 4 microphone array for pristine video quality and video chat capabilities.

Kinect for Xbox 360

Easy to use and fun for everyone, Kinect sensor for Xbox 360 utilizes revolutionary full-body tracking to put players in the center of the fun that is 100% controller-free. After configuring itself by registering a range of points across your body, this amazing technology allows Kinect to recognize and mirror your movements in the game, in effect making your body the controller. The sensor is compatible with every Xbox 360, features a color VGA motion camera (640 x 480 pixel resolution @ 30 frames per second), a depth camera (640 x 480 pixel resolution @ 30 frames per second) and an array of 4 microphones supporting single speaker voice recognition.

Wii Remote Plus & Nunchuk. View larger

PlayStation Eye & Motion controller. View larger

Controller-free Kinect sensor play. View larger

Online Play and Functionality

Online functionality is a major focus in console gaming. Each of the three consoles can be used offline, but by integrating them into your home broadband connection you can greatly expand their potential. Each posses a significant online component, but differ in the ways users can interact with it.

WiiWare is a service that allows Wii players to download games and applications directly to their Wii console in exchange for purchased Wii Points on the Wii Shop Channel. Online gameplay requires a code to play. It's free to play and there are no names, so kids are protected against unwanted contact. Through Wii's online component players can also gain access to hundreds of classic arcade games available for download through Wii's Virtual Console functionality. The Nintendo Channel allows players to watch gameplay videos, trailers, developer interviews, and even download Nintendo DS game demos wirelessly. Additional Wii online functionality includes a web browser and connectivity with Netflix,* which allows users to stream video efficiently and quietly by means of the console's low energy consumption internal processing.

PlayStation Network is an all access pass not only to a world of gaming, but also one of entertainment at-large. The service is 100% free, only requiring a PS3 (or PlayStation handheld) and a broadband connection to the Internet. Once you are in visit the PlayStation Store where users can download games, previews, DLC add-ons for games, game demos, game extras, music and streaming video. Purchases can be made using a credit card or a PlayStation Network Card purchased offline. Content can be stored on your console or external media. Online multiplayer gameplay through PSN is simple, yet robust. Simply slip a compatible multiplayer disc into the console, select the multiplayer option and set up your own game or wait to join one in progress. The service also contains Netflix access,* a range of original gaming-oriented video programming, as well as access to PlayStation Home, a 3D world where gamers can interact in a virtual environment.

Xbox LIVE is the online entertainment hub for Xbox 360. The service was launched with the original Xbox console in 2002, and has evolved and grown with Xbox 360. The service is two-tiered, with every user receiving a free "Silver membership," which allows for access to content such as free game demos, downloaded video rentals, Xbox LIVE avatar functionality and chat. A paid "Gold Membership" provides access to these and expanded features, including online gaming, HD movies and TV shows through services such as Netflix,* HBO Go,** ESPN, and Hulu Plus, downloadable games, facebook, downloadable content (DLC) for games and more. Players use Xbox LIVE points, which as easily purchased online and offline to access much of the online content. Both Xbox LIVE membership levels allow players to increase their Gamer Score, a running tally of the achievements they have unlocked in games. This is commonly shared information among gamers around the world and a source of pride in the community.

* Existing Netflix unlimited membership account required.
** Requires a valid subscription to HBO content through a cable or satellite provider.

The Wii console brings a revolution of interactive gaming to people of all ages. Experience intuitive motion controls that deliver a unique social activity for the whole family. Wii gaming gets everyone off of the couch for hours of fun! Now with the addition of Wii Sport Resort and the Wii MotionPlus accessory, the Wii console bundle comes packed with software and accessories to enhance your Wii experience. Plus for the first time, the Wii is availible in two colors, White or Black and comes complete with a matching Wii Remote and Nunchuk.

Mortal Kombat Armageddon

Mortal Kombat Armageddon Review

Mortal Kombat Armageddon Feature

• Revamped & improved Konquest Mode - What was once a training mission evolves into a full-blown adventure
• Unique Kreate-A-Fatality system gives you the ability to create custom fatalities by stringing together a series of attacks via a series of button combos
• Use the Kreate-A-Fighter feature to create and define a fighter's look, abilities and personality
• Take your custom fighter online, and compete against other Kreate-A-Fighters
• Expanded online features - Improved responsiveness, deeper customizing, expanded Lobby Options and much more

Mortal Kombat Armageddon Wii

64MB 1019 Block Memory Card compatible for Wii & Gamecube

64MB 1019 Block Memory Card compatible for Wii & Gamecube Review

64MB 1019 Block Memory Card compatible for Wii & Gamecube Feature

• 64MB Memory Card for Nintendo Wii and Gamecube Game System Console
• Save your Gamecube games
• Easy to use.
• Low battery consumption
• Memory: 64MB

Compatible with: NINTENDO Wii & Gamecube Package Contents: (ALL BRAND NEW) 1 x 64MB Memory Card for Nintendo Wii

SpongeBob SquarePants: The Battle for Bikini Bottom

SpongeBob SquarePants: The Battle for Bikini Bottom Review

SpongeBob SquarePants: The Battle for Bikini Bottom Feature

• Play as SpongeBob, Patrick or Sandy as you fight against Plankton's evil plot
• Use crazy new maneuvers and power-ups, like the Lasso Copter, Tongue Boarding, and the Bubble Bowl to fight for Bikini Bottom
• Encounter familiar friends as you explore 10 huge 3D environments - along with bonus levels and secret rewards
• Insanely fun action as you and your friends finish Plankton's evil schemes forever!

Product InformationIn an effort to cause the kind of global mayhem he has always dreamed of theevil Plankton has set in motion his most diabolical plot ever to take over theworld and the fate of Bikini Bottom has been put in the hands (or smalltentacles) of three unsuspecting heroes. Put your platform skills to theultimate test as SpongeBob Patrick or Sandy Cheeks with an array of insane newmaneuvers and power-ups at your disposal! Explore a huge 3D world encounterfamiliar friends and finally put an end to Plankton's evil scheme!Product Features 3 playable characters: SpongeBob SquarePants Patrick Star or Sandy Cheeks - each with their own special moves and abilities Crazy maneuvers like "Tongue Boarding" "Underwear Bungee Jumping" and the "Lasso Copter" along with insane power-ups like the "Guided Cruise Bubble" and "Bubble Bowl" 10 huge 3D environments to explore including bonus levels hidden items and other secret rewards Your favorite characters from the cartoon including special cameo appearances

GameCube Wii Max Memory Card 123 Blocks

GameCube Wii Max Memory Card 123 Blocks Review

GameCube Wii Max Memory Card 123 Blocks Feature

• GC MEMORY CARD - (123 blocks)
• SAVES GAME POSITIONS, SCORES & MORE ; INCLUDES STORAGE CASE ; ASSORTED COLORS

There is nothing worse than being in the middle of your best game ever, when you suddenly realize it's time to go. Time for work, time to nit the sack, time to start the grill¿We all go through it. Now you can store your game in a flash with this 8MB memory powerhouse. Simply plug it into your Wii or GameCube's memory port and within seconds you will have your game securely stored. So now you can pick up where you left off, whenever you want or take your game saves with you and hook up to another Wii or GameCube.

Tales Of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World

Tales Of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World Review

Tales Of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World Feature

• Classic Tales - Return to the world of Tales of Symphonia and discover the aftermath of the merging of the two worlds
• Over 200 unique monsters - Capture, collect, and feed monsters as they grow, gain experience and even evolve into completely new, more powerful beasts
• Enhanced for the Wii - Environments, characters and effects look better than ever
• Evolved Battle System - The Tales RPG trademark real-time battle system returns with an all-new free run system, dynamic unison attacks and a strategic elemental system
• It’s your Party - Customize the party with unlimited combinations of monsters and characters throughout the adventure. A decade of Tales - Celebrating the Tales 10 year anniversary in North America.

A beloved classic returns! Set two years after the events of the original, best selling Gamecube RPG, Tales of Symphonia, embark on a new adventure in the world saved by Lloyd and his friends. Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World follows the journey of two young heroes in a world of chaos as their fates intertwine with Lloyd, Colette, and Ratatosk, a summon spirit rumored to be the lord of all monsters. Retains the award-winning original’s dramatic storytelling, endearing characters and action-packed battle system along with new gameplay elements and functionality designed exclusively for the Wii Console. Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World will sure to be an instant classic.

Men in Black II: Alien Escape

Men in Black II: Alien Escape Review

Men in Black II: Alien Escape Feature

• Also Available On: GameCube

This game invites you to step into the black patent-leather shoes of the world's most stylish secret agents: confident veteran Kay and fast-talking Jay. Each has his own way of doing things and his own set of silver weapons, just like in the movie. You will fire away with six authentic MIB weapons, each with multiple levels of power-up ability to inflict more damage on the aliens. Weapons include the J2 Blaster, XD9 "Lazy Weasel," HBIII Globulator, Ionhammer, Plasma Torch, and DRG Fusion Cannon. You will meet and greet all of your favorite MIB aliens, including newcomers Corn Face, Shark Guy, and Dog Poop. There are five distinct episodes and more than 20 levels of play, including the streets of Manhattan, the docks, the nuclear complex, and the alien spaceship. The game's five modes of play are training, mission, time attack, boss, and survival.

Wii

Wii Review

Wii Feature

• 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

Console-based video gaming is one of the most popular of modern digital technologies, cutting across age, demographic and gender divides. Today's players have three dominant platforms to choose from: Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360 by Microsoft. Each is an impressive multifunctional device, with designs meant to encourage integration into existing home entertainment systems and networks, but each goes about this in different ways. Taking a few minutes to examine the main features, and getting more familiar with available options, accessories and possible limitations of each console is the optimal way to determine which is the best choice for the players in a household.

Console Choices

	Wii View larger	PlayStation 3 View larger	Xbox 360 View larger
Models and Pricing (prices may vary)	Wii with Mario Kart Wii - 9	160 GB memory - 0 320 GB memory - 0	4 GB memory - 0 250 GB memory - 0
What's in the Box	Wii console Wii Mario Kart game One Wii Remote Plus controller One Nunchuk controller Wii Sensor bar Standard composite cable and power cord	PS3 console One wireless controller A/V cable for connection to TV USB cable for charging controller Free PlayStation Network (PSN) membership	Xbox 360 console One Xbox 360 wireless controller Composite A/V cable (standard definition) A month free Xbox LIVE Gold membership
Motion Gaming?	Already included	PlayStation Move (sold separately)	Kinect for Xbox 360 (sold separately)
Colors (limited edition colors may be available)	White and black	Black	Black
Drive Type	CD (just games)	CD/DVD/Blu-ray (games, music, movies)	CD/DVD (games, music, movies)
Online Play	WiiWare	PlayStation Network (PSN)	Xbox LIVE
Additional Accessories	Additional controllers - -45	Additional controllers - -50	Additional controllers - -50
Price Range of Games	New releases: ~ - Downloadable: ~ -	New releases: ~ Motion: ~ Downloadable: ~ -	New releases: ~ Motion: ~ Downloadable: ~ -
Backwards Compatibility	Plays all GameCube game titles	Offers compatibility with PS1 games	Over 300 titles developed for the original Xbox console are currently available
Graphic Quality	480p	1080p	1080p
Great For	Designed for Junior to Grandma with titles generally focused on family fun, party games	High-powered and highly customizable system for the technical-minded consumers	Offers a wide selection of games and accessible entertainment, with user-friendly social tools

Arcade, Casual and Party games are a Wii Specialty.
View larger.

Consider Games Before Choosing a Console

There is not just one kind of console video game, and so the machines that are are used to play them are different as well. Considering the types of games to be played, their availability for the consoles being considered and the ability of those consoles' to present the best gaming experience possible for the game's genre and content is important. The games developed for Wii tend to be more easily accessible, family-friendly productions heavily influenced by Nintendo's classic gaming history. Filled with cartoon-like and childlike characters as well as Arcade-style gameplay situations, Wii games are often referred to as "Casual Games," or "Party Games" typified by brief, simple "mini-games." These small games-within-games are tailor-made for players new to the puzzle-solving aspects of gaming and how that is translated through game controllers to the screen by the player.

PS3 and Xbox 360 provide the processing power that Action-Adventure, Shooter, Racing and RPG games need.
View larger.

PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 consoles are the current version of earlier console releases whose user bases were rooted in game genres such as Action-Adventure, Shooters, Racing, Sports, Role-playing games (RPG) and so on. Gameplay developed in these genres tends to require more focus on the part of the player, and more graphics processing power from the console in order to maintain a quality experience. That is what continues to be the main focus of the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. Capable of full 1080p HD quality graphics presentation when used with the proper cables and displays, in this area Xbox 360 and PS3 are far beyond what Wii is capable of. Iconic game franchises like Halo, God of War, Fable, Metal Gear Solid, Gears of War, Killzone, Mass Effect, The Elder Scrolls and many others have grown up on these platforms, feeding off of their power. And with the rise of online multiplayer gaming through Xbox LIVE and PSN the high energy, fine graphical specialties of these platforms only continues to grow.

Motion Gaming

Although motion gaming has been front and center since the launch of the Wii in 2006, the other two consoles have their own motion gaming offerings that provide unique play opportunities on their respective platforms that have also found a wide audience. See a breakdown of the motion gaming capacity of each of the systems below.

Wii Remote Plus and Nunchuk

The Wii Remote Plus controller is the standard wireless controller that ships with each Wii. It combines the intuitive motion controls of the original Wii Remote with the precision technology of the Wii MotionPlus accessory, all built-in to a single unit. The device is handled in a wand-like fashion, and uses internal gyroscope and accelerometer technology to pinpoint the players movements and physical positioning which it then relates into a game via a sensor bar connected to the console. The Wii Remote Plus has only a few buttons making it easy to use. It also contains a speaker, a rumble feature, and an external connector for other input devices like the Nunchuk controller and the Classic Controller.

PlayStation Move

PlayStation Move offers a new and innovative gaming experience for the PlayStation 3 (PS3) system by fusing realistic, high-definition gaming along with accurate, intuitive control. Consisting of a PlayStation Move motion controller, a PlayStation Move Navigation controller (optional in most games) and a PlayStation Eye camera (all sold separately), PlayStation Move enables sophisticated, ultra accurate motion control and immersive gameplay only possible on the PS3 system. In addition, the PlayStation Eye features the ability to process up to 120 frames/second and a built-in 4 microphone array for pristine video quality and video chat capabilities.

Kinect for Xbox 360

Easy to use and fun for everyone, Kinect sensor for Xbox 360 utilizes revolutionary full-body tracking to put players in the center of the fun that is 100% controller-free. After configuring itself by registering a range of points across your body, this amazing technology allows Kinect to recognize and mirror your movements in the game, in effect making your body the controller. The sensor is compatible with every Xbox 360, features a color VGA motion camera (640 x 480 pixel resolution @ 30 frames per second), a depth camera (640 x 480 pixel resolution @ 30 frames per second) and an array of 4 microphones supporting single speaker voice recognition.

Wii Remote Plus & Nunchuk. View larger

PlayStation Eye & Motion controller. View larger

Controller-free Kinect sensor play. View larger

Online Play and Functionality

Online functionality is a major focus in console gaming. Each of the three consoles can be used offline, but by integrating them into your home broadband connection you can greatly expand their potential. Each posses a significant online component, but differ in the ways users can interact with it.

WiiWare is a service that allows Wii players to download games and applications directly to their Wii console in exchange for purchased Wii Points on the Wii Shop Channel. Online gameplay requires a code to play. It's free to play and there are no names, so kids are protected against unwanted contact. Through Wii's online component players can also gain access to hundreds of classic arcade games available for download through Wii's Virtual Console functionality. The Nintendo Channel allows players to watch gameplay videos, trailers, developer interviews, and even download Nintendo DS game demos wirelessly. Additional Wii online functionality includes a web browser and connectivity with Netflix,* which allows users to stream video efficiently and quietly by means of the console's low energy consumption internal processing.

PlayStation Network is an all access pass not only to a world of gaming, but also one of entertainment at-large. The service is 100% free, only requiring a PS3 (or PlayStation handheld) and a broadband connection to the Internet. Once you are in visit the PlayStation Store where users can download games, previews, DLC add-ons for games, game demos, game extras, music and streaming video. Purchases can be made using a credit card or a PlayStation Network Card purchased offline. Content can be stored on your console or external media. Online multiplayer gameplay through PSN is simple, yet robust. Simply slip a compatible multiplayer disc into the console, select the multiplayer option and set up your own game or wait to join one in progress. The service also contains Netflix access,* a range of original gaming-oriented video programming, as well as access to PlayStation Home, a 3D world where gamers can interact in a virtual environment.

Xbox LIVE is the online entertainment hub for Xbox 360. The service was launched with the original Xbox console in 2002, and has evolved and grown with Xbox 360. The service is two-tiered, with every user receiving a free "Silver membership," which allows for access to content such as free game demos, downloaded video rentals, Xbox LIVE avatar functionality and chat. A paid "Gold Membership" provides access to these and expanded features, including online gaming, HD movies and TV shows through services such as Netflix,* HBO Go,** ESPN, and Hulu Plus, downloadable games, facebook, downloadable content (DLC) for games and more. Players use Xbox LIVE points, which as easily purchased online and offline to access much of the online content. Both Xbox LIVE membership levels allow players to increase their Gamer Score, a running tally of the achievements they have unlocked in games. This is commonly shared information among gamers around the world and a source of pride in the community.

* Existing Netflix unlimited membership account required.
** Requires a valid subscription to HBO content through a cable or satellite provider.