Low Down on ze Wii

[Bry]

A little behind schedule really.
Although I was supposed to get the console on launch (December 8th in Europe) due to some unfortunate circumstances, like Nintendo saying they would ship so many consoles 2 weeks before the launch and then cutting that number on the eve of the launch.
Anyway, the console finally arrived in my hands on the 19th of December.
11 days behind schedule, but better late than never.

This system has caused a lot of fuss. The Wii is officially (and by far) the fastest selling console to ever launch in the UK and also Europe as a whole, an achievement it managed in less than 3 days by selling out across the entire continent.

So lets have a closer look at how it ticks.
And I'll also give some general hints for looking after it!

First off, WiiConnect24.
This is a standby system that lets the console stay wirelessly connected to the internet and enable it to download things like software updates, weather forecasts and messages while you are away from the console or sleeping.

The Wii automatically goes to WiiConnect24 mode when you turn the console off by holding down the power button for a few seconds on either the front of the console or the remote.
On the downside, in this mode the console seems to get quite warm. It might not be using much power, but the console is still running to some degree. The fans however aren't.
The Wii has been made with this in mind, but its worth noting that the side of the console that retains the most heat is the 'bottom' of the unit when its horizontal. In this position, it can actually get quite warm indeed.

Now, how about how it all fits together with a sense of scale.
Yup, its pretty damn small. But it is deeper (front to back) then you might expect.


Now, the sensor bar. If you were worried it would be some massive or bulky thing, fear not. As you can see its a similar width to a PS2 but all the other dimensions are very compact. The sensor bar has its own stand which is in place here.
The sensor bar does not light up at all, so if you thought there might be tacky (or cool) line of LED's, its not to be.
But as you can see, it blends in very well. In fact, if its not pointed out, it just looks like part of the TV.
The Wii console itself has a setting to adjust between on top of the TV or below it.


Now here it is for scale with an Xbox360. This shows you what I meant about depth, its only a little less deep than the 360.


OK, that's the looks (mostly).
Now the hidden details. Literally.
The Wii is fully compatible with the Gamecube. That even includes later versions of software like Datel's Freeloader (to play import games) and Action Replay.
The Gamecube controller and memory card slots are on the left side of the console (or the top if vertical) under two removable flaps. They detach completely with ease. Perhaps a bit too much ease, they can come off accidentally when closing them for example.
When open, they also make a horizontal console a bit lopsided.

Visually, this is IMO the worst part of the consoles design.
For example, you cannot close any of the doors, not even the memory card one, with an item in place. This of course completely sacrifices the Wii's sleek looks.
Also, on a more technical level, the Gamecube controller cables will always be bent at a 90 degree angle.
GCN controllers have cables that are already too short and this makes it worse. the sharp bend on the wires may also cause them to fracture over time.
Its good that its there, but it could be better


See? This is an image of the Wii Nintendo have not really used as an example of its looks and abilities.

OK, now the right side of the console, or bottom if vertical.
Nothing to really report here. The serial number, which you'll need to get free replacement Wii Remote wrist straps.
On the left side of this pic on the bottom you can see a little panel with a screw. I presume inside of this is a button lithium battery (probably a CR2032).
I don't know exactly what its for but a fair guess would be so the console clock is maintained even when the Wii is unplugged. Most PC's have one of these.
And finally the big vent. This is an intake. You might have noticed compared to the 360, the Wii has a distinct lack of vents. Its pretty much just this one big one and 3 long thin slots under the front. (and the fan on the back)

Despite this, the console should definitely be used in the vertical position. After a number of tests it was quite clear that having the console in the stand kept the Wii much cooler than the horizontal layout. Basically, this is because most of the heat gathers on the side of the console that would be the bottom when horizontal. The result is that when vertical, this heat can radiate out through the casing.
When horizontal this heat is trapped against the surface the console is placed on, like a desk.


Back to the front, this is the SD card slot.
It should be first noted that while the Wii doesn't have a Hard drive, it does have a built in bit of Flash memory. 512mb worth. Think of it as a SD card built into it. So memory cards will not be required on any console.

But if you should need them for any reason, like transferring game saves, the Wii uses SD cards, as used in lots of digital cameras. They don't need to be Nintendo brand, they aren't special. As long as it completely follows SD card standards, you'll be able to use it to store game saves and downloaded virtual console games. (though you won't be able to load the virtual console games on another Wii. It'll only play on your own. Nintendo thought of that)

The Wii is able to display both photos and videos from an SD card. In theory you can go out, take picture with your camera, then put the card in the Wii to view them as soon as you get home.
The Wii also has basic support for editing your photos, much like Mario Paint in the Photo Channel. You won't be able to save your efforts, but its a bit of fun.

The red button is the syncro button for the remote. There is an identical one in the remotes battery flap. Press both at the same time to link them up. (Though I've never had to do that, not even the first time or when changing batteries).


And now just a controller side by side for the heck of it.


A hardware complaint about the Wii and especially the remote?
Well, basically, its down to the built in speaker. It was a great and exciting idea, but doesn't work too well in practice. The sound quality is very poor due to the speakers small size. This often results in a muffled and crackly sound.
On the plus side, you can actually go into the Wii remote settings and turn the speaker off.
I can't speak for all games, but at least in Zelda, when you turn the remote speaker off, the sounds that played through it are instead played through the TV as they would in a normal game.
Overall, this works better especially if you have a decent sound set-up to take advantage of the consoles Pro-Logic II support.

Another issue is vibration and the stand.
As it happens, the Wii actually fits very loosely into the stand. Its not a snug fit. The result is that its actually fairly wobbly, especially when you are plugging in or removing GCN pads. Something you'll probably be doing after each time they've been used.
The other problem is there is actually a fair bit of noise vibration making the console sound louder then it actually is.
These can both be easily solved though. The Wii packaging contains a lot of plastic/foam packets. These sponge like bags can easily be cut into strips and placed in the console stand and underneath it.
This makes the Wii fit more snugly into the stand and also absorbs most of the vibration.
Try it. The console will be quieter and more secure.

Thanks for reading and I hope we've learnt a little more about the machine.

[Contention]

Wow there Bry, actually have to say thanks for you to writing this. Unlike many views of game consoles, this was likely one of the most unbiased takes on the Wii system itself. It pretty much answered some questions that were largely on mind, especially as to the degree that the Wii was going to take. Instead of just pointing out the positive aspects like many around, with the whole, "The Machine is Flawless" you actually supported your critique with negative scenarios. Which, in whole, is the right way to go. It's better to hear the ups and downs of something, then just getting the ups; that way you can be prepared for whatever stance you wish to take on the machine. It's also lovely getting to see some setup of your systems, and your comparisons to how you covered every nook and cranny from size to physical beauty. From what you have given vision to, the Wii definetly seems to have many quirks. Heck, with your great use of research and valuable intel on the machine you really have the skill to be a reporter. It seems that you cared deeply to get some information on this system, and worked completly hard to get all that you could obtain. In the end, the information is precise and valuable, it also balances out thoughts on the system. This is definetly how a review of any gaming console should be. Full of comparisons and contrasts, and also littered with little snickets of information on controllers and body. Also have to love how you didn't make the console seem dominant over any of the others, you gave it a fair run and it really shows. You didn't place any of the consoles on pedestals either, which also runs in your unbiased take. This is definetly a hot review, full of the know-how and the need-know.

One thing that is definetly amazing, is the sense of that SD card. It seems to be super small and easily scaled for use. It's pretty nifty if you can use any type of SD card, and not have to fully rely on a Nintendo type. Even if the memory on such is small, it should add for a lot of ease on a consumers back. Also, the ability to take photos from that SD card is also a nice hot shot on things. That's something that many of the systems are turning to, that whole, "You can now look at pictures and run movies on here". It really aids in obtaining pictures and films. Furthermore though, if you don't mind, many have stated that since these SD cards carry so little memory, will there be patches for games? It was brought to attention long ago by a member from YC, stating that they were concerned as to the patches in games. They felt that games wouldn't be able to get rid of glitches, and therefore could commonly be berated with cheaters. However, since the Wii has an offline/online update system, will they be able to patch games? Or does this update system only work for the Wii's body and dashboard itself? As well, your mention of the WiiConnect24 is quite appealing. It's nice that the system can be supported to function and supply itself when not on for play. The heat issue however can hopefully have it's own equation to balance it out. The other consoles definetly know the consequences of overheating.

Also, hearing some of the information on the ability to play Gamecube games with controllers is interesting. It probally would be akward to somehow get the controller to work right when it has to be bent, and hardly as you mentioned, goes far at all. Wonder how that will go as time goes on. Yet, as many would say, most of the impact for the console isn't on the oldies; thats just a plus incase you want to return to the old days. On that subject, it's also nice that Nintendo is letting it's users download old games onto the system. That's a plus, and really works well for everything in end. Thanks again for actually giving an insightful view on the Wii; this is very rare. Many fans just flaunt it's excellency and then blame the other consoles for being to vain. Ironical in the end it seems. So it's grand to see a fair sight, with great context, and lovely pictures to show some truthfull theories on the machine itself.

[Chilaquiles]

Hehe, those tips about the warming and securing it in the stand are definitely helpful to me. Good man.

...By the way, that is a might fine looking entertainment center you've got there. Quite organized, too.

[Bry]

Furthermore though, if you don't mind, many have stated that since these SD cards carry so little memory, will there be patches for games? It was brought to attention long ago by a member from YC, stating that they were concerned as to the patches in games.

Well, it depends. Really, patches for games, even on the 360, are generally quite small.
Extra content on the other hand is a different story all together and that's where people probably start to get mixed up.
There's a big difference between a 5mb patch that fixes bugs in a games coding and, for example, the Chapter 2 expansion for Ghost Recon AW which contains new maps, weapons, textures etc.

In the end, SD cards are a pretty flexible format.
A 16mb SD card, like the type that usually comes free when you buy a digital camera, translates into about 110 blocks on the Wii.
Save games wise, 1 Zelda: TP save game (which itself contains 3 save files) takes up 1 block.
Mario 64 is about 90 blocks.
For a quick comparison, the largest memory cards on the Gamecube were 1019 GCN blocks. They were 64mb cards.
Capacity wise, the Wii supports SD cards that go all the way up to 2gb. That translates as about 9000 blocks + the 2200 you get from the Wii's internal 512mb.

While SD cards may be in some ways limited in capacity (which is somewhat debatable, they keep growing) but they help offset this by being fairly cheap. A 512mb card can now be obtained for about $30. And that card will go a long way on the Wii.

Will the Wii see game patches? Probably not. That seems to be limited to hardware updates, but you never know.
Already the Wii firmware is at v2
On the flipside, Nintendo games tend not to need patches.

That doesn't help the 3rd parties much but really, it might be better if developers are not spoilt with the option of being able to make patches. It can lead to games being rushed or released earlier with the thought "Oh, we'll just patch it later if we have to".
Not the best mentality.

On the robustness scale its worth mentioning that on Christmas Day, the console was set up in the living room in order for the whole family to play a few games of Wii bowling.
At one point my mum was rather... forgetful and closed the door. It so happened the Wii was plugged into a socket outside that door.

Long story short, the Wii got yanked by its power cord out of its stand and off the small table (about 2ft high) and fell onto the carpet.
Absolute disaster and horror but the console didn't miss a beat (unlike my heart).
Wii sports was playing at the time and it didn't even judder. The console didn't lockup, freeze or make any funny sounds.
I did, but not the machine.
Placed back upon the table, and once I'd calmed down, the game continued as normal.

The point of this is that one thing still holds true for Nintendo products.
They build their consoles properly.

I have no worries about the Wii overheating. I've read some interviews with the specific designers and they talked a lot about heating. Basically, the Wii was specifically designed to stay powered on 24/7 and the heat buildup was completely factored into it.
That said, its still better to minimise it by putting it vertically but if you get worried about the heat, all you have to do is power on the console for a few minutes and the fan will quickly clear it out.
Seriously, while the Wii gets warm when in standby mode, its usually cool to the touch after being powered on.
Its the complete opposite from the Xbox 360 in that respect which acts like a small heater and could keep a family warm.

[Blitzzoshi]

Yeah, I'll agree, the Wii Remote's speaker doesn't have the best sound quality. I keep it on though (just at a lower volume), because it's more interesting when the sound is coming out of a different location than just the TV all the time. It also somewhat depends on the sound being played (with the different waveforms, frequencies and all). Some sounds are okay played through the speaker, others sound terrible. Another thing I don't really like about the remote is the pointer precision on the Wii Menu. For some strange reason, it moves perfectly smooth in Twilight Princess. While the game is running, I can move the pointer around on the Home Button screen, and it doesn't jitter at all. Same goes for the Sensor Bar Sensitivity screen. However, in the main menu, it seems to be rather jittery, and I can't imagine why.

The games I have so far are quite nice. Twilight Princess is as good as anticipated. I'm only on the first dungeon so far, and I can honestly say that there are some tricky areas to this game. I ran into a bunch of trouble spots where I couldn't figure out what to do, and then I realized the obvious solution, making me feel like a total idiot (Oh wait, Midna told me to hold B last time we fought those guys! Duh!). The sword swiping feels a bit gimmicky to me, because it just acts like a B button whenever you swipe the remote. It doesn't seem to do any other actions when you swipe in different directions, only when holding down other buttons, like in the previous games. It does feel hands-free though when, say, you're running by and swiping the remote, to cut down grass while you're moving. What feels really natural, though, is when you're aiming with a weapon such as the boomerang. I get about as much precision as I do with my computer mouse. It just feels right when aiming using the remote.

Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz also works pretty well with the remote. Just simply tilt it to move your monkey, and A to jump. However, I've really stalled on stage 7-4, for what looks like an almost impossible course to do. It's a long and skinny, spiraling track without rails, and I always fall off after about a second. I don't think I'll get much further in the Main Game for a while, but then again, Super Monkey Ball has always been like that, so I'll just have to deal with it. The minigames are fun, but sometimes a tad difficult to understand. You have to read the directions real carefully or else you'll be clueless on what to do at first. Also, when you're starting a minigame that uses triangulation, you are prompted to aim your remote at the center of the screen. The game doesn't say, but you're meant to keep it in the center until the game begins, so that you'll be able to find your cursor and not be disoriented.

Also, Excite Truck was a lot more fun than I thought it would be. The turning feels just right once you get used to it, and there's something about stunt performing that gives me this level of satisfaction and achievement. I feel like I really want to strive and get all the trophies I can by performing super stunts, and I'm always awaiting the next trophy after each race. From the menus the game looks a little shallow, but it provides good challenge, so it should be enough to keep one busy for a while, but not forever.

I even decided to visit IRC from my Wii. Took a picture of it, too. My TV's really old, but you should be able to make out the words.

[Bry]

because it's more interesting when the sound is coming out of a different location than just the TV all the time.

A fair point but as you may be able to tell from my pic, I have a 5 channel surround sound setup with sub.
For a game like Zelda that supports ProLogic II for surround sound, its not always coming from the TV.
The game was still made for the GCN after all with that code being recycled. That includes every sound being designed to work in surround sound without the remote.
Turning off the remote sound simply reverts the game to how it was originally designed. The sound still comes from all around you, just not from your hand. For the clarity though, I find it worthwhile.
Really, if there is one thing on the Wii which is a gimmick, it'd be the speaker remote.

[Potwin]

talking of zelda, i think its just plain weird when someone laughes, it comes from your hand