For the past 3 years, the Nintendo Wii has dominated the video game system sales charts. In fact, the Wii has owned every other bundled game console on the market. It has sold more units than the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 combined, and it is common for it to sell out during Christmas and other peak seasons.
But will the Wii be able to maintain this dominance?
There are already complaints from some people about the limitations of the Wii. The motion sensing technology on the Wii was something new on the market, but its novelty is starting to wear off and people are starting to notice that the other systems have much better graphics and more processing power.
Both the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 have started to close the gap in recent months. Does the Wii have enough reserves in its tank to protect itself from the competition chasing it? There are 5 upcoming Wii games that should give us some indication:
1. Punch. This is one of the most beloved games in Nintendo history, and it’s making a comeback. This will be a title that shows just how loyal Nintendo fans really are.
2. Wii Sports Complex. The original Wii Sports is included when you purchase a Wii console. This sequel will be bundled with the new Wiimote, which is powered by MotionPlus technology. This new Wiimote is supposed to improve the accuracy of motion detection over the original Wiimote. MotionPlus is a plugin that can be plugged into original controllers. The jet ski, dog frisbee and kendo stick fighting lineup on Wii Sports Report will put this new technology to the test.
3. Red Steel 2. The original Red Steel was a disappointment to many people, even though it was a launch title for the Wii. The unresponsiveness of the controls made people doubt the accuracy of the Wiimote. This sequel will also take advantage of MotionPlus, and Ubisoft hopes the second attempt will be a success.
4. Sin & Punishment 2. Treasure, the company responsible for some of the best hybrid shooter-platformers in video game history, is developing this sequel to the original game, which was only available in Japan. The action in this game is incredible and it has all the signs of being a great success.
5. Rock band: The Beatles. This is probably the next biggest title for casual gamers (people who don’t play a lot of video games) and it’s coming to the Nintendo Wii alongside the Xbox 360 and PS3. The sales charts will tell us how the Wii holds up against its competition.