wii... would like to clarify.

Response to Generic Journal Entry Question: Are Wii the Children of the Revolution?

The Nintendo Wii, better known as the motion sensor gaming wonder. We've grown accustomed to Nintendo's past releases - namely that of the GameBoy and many other gaming consoles, as well as its multitude of characters and merchandise (can you say Mario?). What could possibly be so special about this, you ask? I'm seeing a whole different side to this story.

Not every family is interested in a good old game of Monopoly anymore, and that the Wii brings a more digital and fun method of gaming for everyone. But are any of its methods particularly new? I don't think so. The physical gameplay aspect of the Wii is definitely something that's been around for a while: think DDR. Motion sensor games such as ParaParaParadise (check Pacific Mall - it's hard to miss para-dancers when you're going down the escalator) have also been around for a good seven years now. Speaking of which, the neglected PlayStation EyeToy was also brought to my attention. The game variety could've been just as extensive as the Wii's collection, had the EyeToy been more popular and had better sensors. I personally perceive the Wii as a combination of gaming technology that we've all seen over the past 10 years.

I do have a lot of respect for the Wii because of its unique gameplay. It's a different combination of motion sensors as well as your imagination taking shape through the controller. But I wouldn't call it "revolutionary" just yet - while the Wii is a spectacular device, I don't believe that it will transform our society into a congregation of gamers. Not everyone will be totally entranced by the Wii, although it is a thought. Digital gaming is appealing for the younger generation as well as some of their parents.

As a game system, Wii is definitely a top contender with a concept of introducing a gamer's imagination to a console that can truly deliver past button-mashing. But I'm not personally ready to call it a revolutionary device, because there's aspects to the Wii that have been scattered throughout the gaming industry for years.