The Wii is Nintendo's fifth home gaming console. This is a console system that Nintendo sent up against the Xbox 360 and the Playstation 3. While it was sent up against the 360 and the PS3, in overall performance it is not a match for the other two consoles. The advantage the Wii has is the broadness of the demographic. From todlers to senior citizens, just about anyone can use the Wii.

The Wii is not noted for it's intense graphical prowess. The graphics are mostly lack luster when compared to the 360 or the PS3, what the Wii lacks in graphics, it's overall "party" playability is off the charts. It is a console for the whole family. Most of the games are meant for multi-player enjoyment. The Wii has many games that the more players there are the better the playing is.

One of the most notable features of the Wii is the controller, the Wii Remote, or Wii-mote as they are commonly called. The Wii-mote is the main controller for the Wii. It is a wireless controller that connects to the Wii via bluetooth technology. There are motion sensing gyros in the unit to provide the controller with many axis' of movement. The Wii also is a infared(IR) camera that uses an IR transmitter, the Wii Sensor bar, to establish when the Wii-mote is correctly pointed at the TV. This allows you to aim the Wii-mote at the screen to select or shoot things. The controller has a port on the end that allows you to plug in an accessory controller. The main accessory controller that is used is the Nunchuck. The Nunchuck provides the user with more controller options. The Wii Classic Controller can also be plugged in to this port for playing some games "Old School" style.

The Wii is also backwards compatable with the Nintendo GameCube. By opening up some ports on the side you can insert GameCube memory cards and attach GameCube controllers. The GameCube games can be loaded into the front drive of the Wii. Also, to add to the compatability love, classic games from the NES, Super Nintendo, N64, Sega Master System, TurboGraphix, and Neo-Geo systems. To do this the Wii must be hooked up to the internet, either by it's built in Wi-Fi adapter or and external Wii to PC adapter. When it is connected the internet you can use the Wii Shop channel from the main Wii menu. To purchase games you also need to by WiiPoints either from a card at the store or directly online.

The Wii can have the Opera internet browser. You can make your own online avatars called Miis. These frequently show up in games as either spectators or teamamtes/opponents. The Miis can also be shared on the internet, or you can download other people's. There is also a poll channel that allows you to vote on various questions and then predict which answer will be the most popular. While this has no practical value, it is fun.

All in all the Wii is a very versital machine. Highly recommended for young and old alike. If you want a console that brings friends and family together, the Wii is the console for you. Hardcore gamers tend to down play the Wii, but it will provide a lot of enjoyment for the money. Speaking of the money it is also the least expensive of the 3 major consoles.