Hardware & Accessories

Hardware: The Wii Console

We Recommend: $199 Nintendo Wii

Here's Why: The console includes everything you need to get going--a Wii Remote, a Nunchuk, the MotionPlus attachment (which improves how well your console detects your controller's movement, basically making the control more precise), and copies of Wii Sports Resort and Wii Sports. There are larger bundles available that include an extra set of controllers, but the savings are minuscule. Purchase the extra hardware at your leisure.

Accessories

Controllers

We Recommend: Official Nintendo Wii Remotes with MotionPlus - $50 and Official Nintendo Nunchuk Controllers - $20.

Here's Why: If you need extra controllers, it's generally a good idea to try to stick with first-party hardware--that is, hardware manufactured by the creator of the console. In this case, it would be Nintendo. Unfortunately, an extra Wii Remote with MotionPlus and a Nunchuk will set you back $70 (the price of a new game!). If you're going to invite friends over who own their own Wiis, you might want to ask them to bring along their own controllers too.

Wireless Sensor Bar

We Recommend: Nyko Wii Wireless Sensor Bar - $15

Here's Why: The Wii comes with a sensor bar--an infrared sensor that you place on top of your TV to that basically improves the Wii Remote's control (the sensor bar actually emits infrared light that gets picked up by your controller, but we won't get into the specifics here). Suffice it to say that the sensor bar can improve your experience using a Wii Remote, and we recommend getting a wireless version of this accessory to stay clear of all the audio/video cables that you no doubt have hanging around your TV and console.

Component Video Cables

We Recommend: Component Video Cables - $5

Here's Why: While the Wii unfortunately does not output HD video, you can still make your games look their best by getting a set of component video cables. Using component video cables, the Wii sends out DVD (480p) quality visuals. Monoprice.com has a well-reviewed set of Nintendo Wii compatible component cables for $5, which is considerably cheaper than the official $30 Nintendo component video cables.

Rechargeable Batteries / Wii Remote Docking Station

We Recommend: Nyko Charge Station + Rechargeable Batteries - $30

Here's Why: As fun as it can be to swing around a Wii Remote to play games, your controllers will eventually run out of battery power. Instead of constantly buying new batteries, do yourself (and the environment) a favor by getting yourself either rechargeable batteries or a recharging station dock for your controllers. Nyko's docking station offers both at a decent price.