How to Select Games for a Wii

Believe it or not, Nintendo started in 1889 in Kyoto, Japan. As a nineteenth-century company, Nintendo produced “flower cards” used to play a number of different Japanese card games. After trying several other business ventures, Nintendo eventually entered the video game industry. The most recent Nintendo game console, the Wii, has introduced a number of gaming innovations to produce the most interactive experience possible on a console. Nintendo introduced a large number of games to go with the Wii, sometimes making it hard determine which ones to select.

Instructions: (Difficulty: Moderately Easy)

Step1
Select a game marked with an “E,” which stands for “everyone,” to get games suitable for ages 6 and above. These games contain minimal, cartoon-like violence and may have fantasy characteristics. If there is an “EC” on the back of the box, the game targets a younger audience (3 years and up). EC, or “early childhood,” games tend to be educational. Games rated as “E 10″ target those aged 10 and up, with more cartoon violence, fantasy, mild violence, minimal/infrequent blood and/or a small usage of suggestive themes.

Step2
Find the “T” rating on the front of the box for games intended for people 13 and older. The “Teen”-rated games can contain higher levels of violence, suggestive themes, crude humor, some blood, minimal strong language and simulated gambling.

Step3
Select “M”-rated games for those over the age of 17. Due to intense violence with blood and gore, strong language, sexual reference and/or mature themes, games rated “M” are not suitable for children. Some retail chains require “Mature” games to be purchased by adults showing valid identifications.

Step4
Get into shape by choosing a game known for its workout properties. “Wii Sports,” which comes bundled with every Wii sold in stores, contains mini baseball, boxing, tennis, bowling and golf games designed to get you out of your chair. In addition, “Wii Fit,” which will be released mid-2008, will add to the Wii’s active-play repertoire by allowing players to use a patented balance board to perform yoga, aerobics, push ups and simulated snowboarding, among others.

Step5
Let your imagination run wild by stepping into one of the Wii’s role-playing games (RPGs). Although not considered “pure” RPGs, user favorites include “Super Paper Mario,” “Marvel: Ultimate Alliance” and “Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess.” Users looking for a more authentic RPG can look forward to “Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicals: My Life As a King,” which is slated for release in May 2008.

Tips & Warnings

* Get in the habit of looking for the number of players who can play the game at the same time. Look for the game controller icon on the package and count the number of controllers.
* An “EC” game will likely be too easy for people 10 and older to enjoy.