Hobbies And Interests
Launch
The Wii was released in the United States in November 2006 for $249.99 and remained at that price through much of 2009. Demand for the console was high and many prospective owners had difficulty finding one to purchase. More than a year later, Wii shortages were still being reported, even though Nintendo had increased production, according to "Wired" magazine.
Wii Remote
The Wii is controlled by the Wii remote, a wand-like device that responds to a sensor bar that is placed near the television. The remote is used to simulate various game activities, such as swinging a baseball bat or tennis racket in "Wii Sports." The Nunchuk attachment plugs into the Wii remote for two-handed play.
The Wii remote can be used in conjunction with other accessories to enhance the gaming experience. The remote is inserted into the Wii Wheel for use in driving games, the Zapper controller for shooting games and a guitar accessory for music games.
Channels
Using the Wii's WiFi connection, you can access a number of channels that add content and functionality to the console. The Wii Shop Channel features new games, called WiiWare, and classic games from previous Nintendo consoles that can be purchased and downloaded to the Wii. With the free Opera browser, you can browse the Internet. The Photo Channel allows you to upload, alter and share pictures. Other channels provide local and global news and weather reports.
Compatibility
All GameCube titles can be played on the Nintendo Wii. The console provides ports for GameCube controllers and memory cards, which must be used to play and save GameCube games. The Nintendo Channel in the Wii Shop allows users to download game demos to the Nintendo DS.
Appeal
In an interview with "USA Today," Reggie Fils-Aime, the president and chief operating officer of Nintendo of America, explained that the Wii was designed to change how games are played and appeal to serious gamers and non-gamers alike. The console's selection of family-friendly games, party games and fitness games, as well as the ease of learning to play them, make the Wii more accessible to people who are new to video games.