How to Program Games for the Nintendo Wii

How to Create a Wii Game

• 1

  Map out your game idea. From beginning to end, write everything you wish to accomplish in terms of visuals, gameplay and story. Organize this information into charts that can be understood by an outside party.

• 2

  Apply to become an authorized Wii developer. If you're not authorized, your game will not be eligible to appear on the console.

• 3

  Submit an application to Nintendo that includes the following information:
  Your company name, address, telephone number and main contact person
  List of the members of the company and their industry experience
  Names of published games
  Outside people who will work on development

• 4

  Sign and submit a confidentiality agreement. Upon acceptance as an authorized developer, you will be given access to the development support website. The confidentiality agreement states you will be held accountable for any leaked information from the site.

• 5

  Acquire a Wii Development Kit. Developing for the Wii takes more than just a computer and programming knowledge. Nintendo offers kits for between $2,000 and $10,000. These are used to compile code, test the game and stay within the system specifications of the console.

• 6

  Create your game using the detailed guidelines you've created, as well as the development kit. You will need to have computer programming knowledge to translate your idea to a playable game. If you lack this knowledge, partner with another individual with that experience.

• 7

  Publish your game. Independent developers use WiiWare, the console's downloadable game service, to distribute their games. Submit your finished product to Nintendo for approval, and if it passes, you'll see your game added to the release schedule of upcoming Wii titles.