Warioware: Smooth Moves is the first Wii classic.
The Wii Remote is held in a number of different ways, called “forms”, which range from using it as a standard remove, to holding it to your hip, or putting it on the floor. Before the start of each micro-game you are prompted to the “form” you need to use. The forms are initially introduced with a witty proverb and name that perfectly describes the way you hold the remote: for instance, “the waiter” involves holding the remote in the palm of your hand. So far, I have counted more than a dozen forms with more to come.
Once you have the Wii Remote on the correct form the micro-game starts and you have 5 seconds to work out what you need to do to complete it and move on to the next one. Most of the micro-games are either very funny or just plain bizarre. No matter how crazy the micro-games get, it is normally very easy to work out what to do. There are over 200 micro-games in total, so you never feel that you are playing the same ones over and over again.
Warioware: Smooth Moves features a huge variety of graphical styles ranging from 8-bit classics, to Anime and more contemporary “current-gen”. The characters’ back-stories and cut scenes are all presented in a wacky cartoon style that just oozes charm and wit. The sheer quality and breadth of graphical styles makes this one of the best looking games on any console without needing to have HD resolutions.
To accompany the crazy games and wacky visuals, you’d expect more mad sound and music; and you’d be absolutely right. If anything, the sound effects and music are even wackier and crazier than the games and graphics combined. The music is fantastic and typically Japanese in its aping of western musical styles, whilst the sounds and noises are fantastically abstract.
With over 200 micro-games, various play modes, multiplayer and endless charm, Warioware: Smooth Moves is great value for money. You’ll be digging it out and playing it every time you have friends to visit and want to break the ice. Warioware, also only requires one Wii remote, so you don’t have to shell out on further Remotes or Nunchucks for fun with friends. The only slight let down is the lack of online support – here’s hoping Nintendo will start producing more “live” games soon.
Warioware: Smooth Moves is one of the best party games on any platform. I do admit to being a fan of the series, but Smooth Moves’ style, combined with the innovative and simple use of the Wii remote, has created the best version yet. Even those who rarely play video games will get a kick out of the simple gameplay, humour and sheer craziness of it all. If you own a Wii, or plan on getting one, then Warioware: Smooth Moves is a MUST purchase.