The current generation of console gaming features PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch which all have proven to be effective in gaining the attention of gamers.
However, we should not forget the redefining moment of the Nintendo Wii. In 2006, Wii revolutionized the gaming world with its unique motion-sensing controls and collaborative approach to gaming.
Despite sharing its glory days that brought joy to millions of families and friends, the console was eventually discontinued and dropped in favor of a new generation console.
Ready to go on a nostalgic trip? Here are some of the unforgettable moments of Nintendo Wii that will forever be remembered by gamers:
Wii's Concept and Launch
Nintendo started the development of the Wii in 2001 after GameCube failed in the market. The company envisioned a console that could appeal to a broader audience, even non-gamers. Five years after the new console was announced to the public with an agenda to bring inclusiveness through gaming.
Wii became an immediate success to the public and was launched consecutively from North America to other regions. Back then, the console had a starting price of $249.99.
Some of its notable titles included Wii Sports, The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, and Excite Truck. Wii Sports was considered a cultural phenomenon due to the introduction of motion-controlled gaming.
Wii Outshines Xbox 360, PlayStation 3
A year after it was released, Nintendo saw its increasing popularity. Wii outsold major competitors like Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 due to the exclusive offer of motion controls and family-friendly games.
The following years saw a more successful event for Wii as the console targeted health-conscious customers who wanted to get fit through gaming. Wii reached its 50 million sold units milestone after releasing the New Super Mario Bros. Wii.
Wii Suffers Console Saturation
Despite its initial success and continuous game releases, Wii's momentum started to slow down in 2010. The exclusivity of motion controls has started to wear off from consumers as the competitors started to provide HD graphics.
In 2011, the only notable release was attributed to The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword. Nintendo also started to decrease the number of major releases for the console.
Wii U Introduction
Nintendo made its entry into the HD console market by introducing Wii U in 2012. The company had to make quick decisions to compete with the current trend in the gaming industry due to its decreasing sales.
The Wii continued to be sold at the time and was still supported. In 2013, the Wii was officially discontinued in Japan while other regions have started to outgrow the console's popularity.
End of Wii
Nintendo announced that Wii's online services will be discontinued in 2014. Regardless, the company still attempted to pull other consumers with Wii Mini, which failed to gain a significant impact in the market.
By 2017, Wii was officially discontinued worldwide. Nintendo has started to prioritize the launch of Switch and focused its company direction on portable gaming.
