The Best Wii Games
The Nintendo Wii might be getting up in years, but it still holds its ground as one of the greatest gaming consoles ever released. At least, that's our opinion after spending thousands of hours swinging those Wiimotes around. Thus, for our fellow Wii fans, we've compiled this list of the best Wii games. Read on for our in-depth reviews.
What to Look For
The Nintendo Wii has a massive catalog of games, and most of them are awesome. However, we still had to compare the options to find the best of the best, so we narrowed them down using five main questions: Are the controls smooth and intuitive? For what age groups is it appropriate? Does the animation still hold up? Is it fun and exciting? How many people can play? Is the price fair? Our top pick is Mario Kart Wii since it offers endless fun for both single players and groups. It also has nuanced controls that total noobs can pick up on quickly. But if you want something more active, we recommend Just Dance 2, which boasts an excellent catalog of songs. There’s a lot to consider, so let’s dive in.
Mario Kart Wii – World Edition (by Nintendo)
The race is on
Mario Kart Wii was released over a decade ago, yet it still holds up after all these years, thanks to excellent game design, colorful animation, and extremely responsive and accurate controls. It also has some of the most memorable courses ever to grace the Mario Kart universe, including Maple Treeway, Wario’s Gold Mine, and the classic Rainbow Road. And with the addition of the Retro Grand Prix courses, you can enjoy updated classics from previous installments, including the N64 and DS versions. Indeed, there are tons of different courses, modes, and challenges to explore, so Mario Kart Wii stays fresh and fun after hundreds of hours.
Pros:
- Compatible with several types of Wii controllers
- Balanced and accessible design is appropriate for all ages
- Up to four players can race in split-screen mode
Cons:
- This coveted title may come at a relatively higher price than most Wii games
New Super Mario Bros. Wii
Family-friendly fun
It’s probably safe to say that most of the world knows Mario, and his humble origins started with arcade platformers like Donkey Kong and Super Mario Bros. With New Super Mario Bros Wii, that platforming legacy blasts into the 21st century with gorgeous graphics, a multiplayer mode, and motion controls using the Wii remote. This thrilling game offers a balanced blend of classic controls and contemporary gameplay, and we would be remiss not to include it on our list.
Pros:
- The multiplayer mode requires cooperation
- Up to four people can play at once
- Exciting new items like propellor suit
Cons:
- We wish you could choose to play as other characters instead of just Mario, Luigi, and Toad
Wii Sports by Nintendo (Renewed)
Time to get active
Wii Sports will always hold a special place in our hearts since it’s been the focal point of so many wholesome bonding experiences with family and friends. With a selection of excellent sports to choose from, this beautifully designed game captivates the moment the main menu’s music starts to play. And its success is also the result of fine-tuned controls, which take full advantage of the Wii remote’s motion capture.
Pros:
- Includes training modes
- Accurate controller response lets you improve your technique
- A great option for friendly competition among family and friends
Cons:
- Another highly desired game, this one may come at a premium price
Just Dance 2 – Nintendo Wii
Ready for rhythm
Just Dance 2 is our go-to game for getting up off the couch and moving our bodies. Indeed, you’re likely to work up a sweat in no time, especially with 44 awesome dance tracks at your disposal. But Just Dance 2 isn’t simply a workout. You can legitimately improve your dance skills, as the movement recognition is some of the most accurate we’ve come across.
Pros:
- Great way to get active
- Supports up to 8 players
- The dance moves are fun to learn
- Affordable price for a top-tier game
Cons:
- To take full advantage of the movement recognition, you may have to calibrate and position the motion-sensor bar carefully
Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games for Wii
Assemble the athletes
If you’re looking for a great game to bust out at your next party, consider Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games. We like to run the circuit of all the games to see who excels in which field. From skeet shooting, gymnastics, archery, and more, there’s an “Olympic event” for everyone. It also has unlockable stages that add a degree of encouragement to the competition.
Pros:
- Up to four players
- Four playing styles to choose from
- Fun animations
Cons:
- It can be a tad difficult for new players to get the hang of the sensitive controls
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Wii games appropriate for children?
This depends entirely on the game, so make sure to check the ESRB rating before you buy. However, the Wii game catalog is one of the most inclusive, and most of the popular titles are rated “E For Everyone.”
Do I need a special controller to play a Wii game?
Many Wii games are compatible with specialized controllers, such as racing wheels, but very few require them. The Wii remote can be used for the vast majority of Wii games.
About the Author
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.