What I think makes the Wii so cutting edge is that its controllers help to simulate real human body movements which make the experience more fun & realistic!

The Wii is basically a home video game console that you can hook up to a TV screen or video display. The Wii console is required to play any of the Wii games. The console can also be used to display movies or TV shows through Netflix (with an Netflix membership).

The Wii console comes equiped with a Wii Remote, a wired Wii Nunchuk and the Wii Sports game package (which simulates boxing, bowling, golf, tennis & baseball). But that is where the fun just begins...

Wii Remotes & Wii Motion Plus

You interact with the system using the Wii Remote. It detects changes in the motion of your hand & arm. The system will work with up to 4 Remotes (& it comes with one), so you may want to purchase up to 3 more remotes.

It comes with two AA batteries & the battery life is supposed to be excellent. But if you are like me and you want to be "green" & be kind to the environment and use rechargable batteries they also sell a Charge Station.

For serious gamer gamers you might consider purchasing the Wii Motion Plus accessory that attaches to the remote (sold separately). It increases accuracy and enhance play control on compatible games. It has additional sensors that makes the remote respond to the slightest motion.

What is a Wii Nunchuk?

It is the controller that you use with your left hand (if you are right-handed). It is paired with one remote that you use with your opposite hand. It typically attaches to the remote with a wire and the pair then resembles a "nunchuk" (an instrument is used in martial arts). If you are not familiar with the martial arts don't sweat it -- it is just how they named the device.

It is required for playing games that require the use of both hands (e.g. Boxing, Skiing, etc.).

You may want to consider getting a wireless Nunchuk or a wireless conversion kit.

Accessorize your Accessories - with Skin Covers & Decals

A skin decal sticker is a scratch resistant protective shield made out of high-quality vinyl that simply peel off the skins with no sticky residue.

They are usually sold in pairs. This not only looks great, but it serves the purpose of knowing which Remote is paired with a particular Nunchuk.

What's Wii Fit Plus?

It is very popular in the US & abroad. Not only can you get in shape using the system, but you can play some of the other games using the Balance Board that can come bundled with Wii Fit or Wii Fit Plus. The Balance Board is a device that you stand on (it is similar to an aerobic step board) & it can detect shifts in your balance if you lean forward, backward, left or right.

Click here for the complete list of Balance Board compatible games in the US.

Wii Fit consists of a series of different kinds of exercise - Yoga, Strength Training, Aerobics, and Balance Games. Initially the program allows you to try short and more simple exercises and as you spend more time and accomplish goals more exercises become available.

The Balance Games truly feel like mini-games (not exercise!). For example they have slalom skiing, ski jumps, heading a soccer ball, etc. It is fun trying to beat your high score (or the high score of another family member). And it allows you to use your Mii character.

When you first step on the Balance Board you can chose to weigh yourself, determine your BMI (Body Mass Index) & measure your Fit Age. That part is fun, but I have found that depending upon how I score on a particular test that my Fit Age can vary quite a bit.

What I like the most is that I am developing a better sense of rhythm, balance & coordination. I feel stronger & notice that I am getting more fit & I have better posture. I love that it is an interactive exercise system. It is fun getting into shape by playing "games." And that the system automatically tracks your progress & that is so important for motivation!

Wii Fit Plus Enhancements

It shows you how many calories burned which is a very nice addition & helps keeps you motivated! And it has additional Wii Fit Plus' enhanced games are under the "Training Plus" category. The entire list of "Training Plus" games Perfect 10, Island Cycling, Rhythm Kung Fu, Driving Range, Segway Circuit, Bird's-Eye Bull's-Eye, Snowball Fight, Obstacle Course, Tilt City, Rhythm Parade, Big Top Juggling, Skateboard Arena, Table Tilt Plus, Balance Bubble Plus, & Basic Run Plus.