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Wii Fit Plus
Nintendo has truly become the Pixar of video games.
By: Torie Bosch
Posted: December 23, 2009 at 11:11 AM
With the Wii, Nintendo has truly become the Pixar of video games: the company that appeals to kids, teens, and adults without pandering or talking over anyone’s head. The company’s new update of the Wii Fit, the Wii Fit Plus, fits that bill as well as any video game released this year. The bones of the game remain the same—you stand on a “balance board” that senses your body’s movements as the console leads you throw aerobics, yoga, strength training, and balance games. That can make you break a sweat, though it certainly won’t replace a gym. The “plus” comes from additional games that are great for kids. There’s an obstacle course complete with rolling logs to jump over and a counting game that asks you to bump your hips to numbers that add up to 10. My favorite is a surprisingly taxing challenge in which your Mii—the character you create in your own image—is dressed up in a chicken costume as you flap your arms to fly to different targets. In these winter months, when it gets dark early and weather can pin families inside, it’s nice to have a way to keep kids active while entertaining them. If you still need a family holiday gift, pick this one up.
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Fear Factor:
(The realism can make you flinch. For instance, a game that challenges you to head soccer balls also asks you to duck other flying objects. When your Mii gets hit with one, it can be a little scary.) -
Heart:
(None to speak of.) -
Attitude:
(Like many Nintendo games, Wii Fit Plus can be gently taunting if you don’t do well.) -
Psst: For grown-ups, the game allows you to track your BMI and weight and set goals for yourself. It wounded my pride a little—I know I’m a tad overweight, Wii. No need to make my Mii plump up to remind me!
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If You Like This: There’s the EA Sports Active series for fitness, and the Active Life series for fun.