Digital Home Thoughts: Non-HD Gaming Fun: The Nintendo Wii

Product Category: Video Game Console
Manufacturer: Nintendo
Where to Buy: Amazon [Affiliate]
Price: $249 USD
System Requirements: NTSC Compatible TV. For Enhanced 480p resolution: HDTV/EDTV compatible TV with optional Component Video Cable. Dolby Pro Logic compatible Stereo Tuner for Surround Sound.
Specifications: PowerPC CPU with 90nm SOI CMOS process, A single self loading media bay for single or dual layer 12cm optical discs or 8cm Nintendo GameCube discs, Built in wireless network controller, Bay for SD memory card, 8.5 inches long, 6 inches wide, and 2 inches thick.

Pros

• Delivers fun and innovative new ways to play video games;
  
• The cheapest of the current generation video game consoles;
  
• Wii Sports is included with the console.

Cons

• Does not support High Definition graphics (720p, 1080i, or 1080p);
  
• Only supports the SD memory card format;
  
• Batteries in controller are not rechargeable.

Summary:
The Nintendo Wii is Nintendo’s fifth generation home gaming console and may prove to be their most innovative one to date. The Wii offers a completely new way to interact with video games by using a motion sensitive controller called the Wii remote. If you want to play golf, swing the remote like a golf club. Feel up for a game of tennis? Use the remote like a tennis racket. Experiences like this are what Nintendo is hoping will draw people to their new system. Does the system deliver on this? Is it as easy to pick up and use as advertised?

Read on for the full review!