The best Nintendo Wii remains a sought-after console nearly two decades after its original release. Nintendo sold over 101 million Wii units worldwide, making it one of the most successful gaming systems ever produced. Gamers continue to hunt for the best Nintendo Wii options because the console offers motion-controlled gameplay that still feels fresh and fun. This guide covers everything buyers need to know, from console versions and accessories to must-have games and tips for purchasing used units. Whether someone wants to relive childhood memories or introduce a new generation to Wii Sports, finding the right Wii setup matters.
Key Takeaways
- The best Nintendo Wii model for most buyers is the original RVL-001, which offers full GameCube backward compatibility and the most features.
- Used Wii consoles remain affordable, with complete setups available for under $100, making them ideal for casual gaming or family entertainment.
- When buying a used Wii, test the disc drive functionality, check the model number, and inspect the sensor bar and controllers for wear.
- Essential accessories include Wii Remote Plus controllers, component cables for 480p video quality, and rechargeable battery packs to save on AAs.
- Must-play games like Wii Sports, Super Mario Galaxy, and Mario Kart Wii showcase why the Nintendo Wii continues to attract gamers nearly two decades after launch.
Why the Nintendo Wii Remains Popular Today
The Nintendo Wii launched in 2006 and changed how people played video games. Its motion controls turned living rooms into bowling alleys, tennis courts, and boxing rings. That appeal hasn’t faded.
Families love the Wii because it brings everyone together. Grandparents can bowl alongside grandchildren. Parents who never touched a controller find the Wii remote intuitive. The console’s library includes hundreds of party games designed for group play.
Retro gaming enthusiasts also drive demand for the best Nintendo Wii consoles. The system plays both Wii games and original GameCube titles (on certain models). That backward compatibility gives owners access to two generations of Nintendo classics.
The price point helps too. A used Nintendo Wii costs a fraction of modern consoles. Buyers can get a complete setup with games for under $100 in most cases. That affordability makes it an easy choice for casual gaming or as a secondary console.
Nostalgia plays a significant role as well. Millennials who grew up with the Wii now buy them for their own homes. They want their kids to experience Mario Kart Wii, Wii Sports Resort, and Super Smash Bros. Brawl the same way they did.
Nintendo Wii Console Versions Compared
Nintendo released two main versions of the Wii. Understanding the differences helps buyers choose the best Nintendo Wii for their needs.
Original Wii (RVL-001)
The original model launched in 2006. It features full backward compatibility with GameCube games. The console has four GameCube controller ports and two memory card slots hidden under a flip-up cover on top.
This version supports both horizontal and vertical positioning. It includes a stand for upright placement. The original Wii outputs video at 480p maximum through component cables.
Buyers who want GameCube compatibility should look specifically for the RVL-001 model number on the back of the console.
Wii Family Edition (RVL-101)
Nintendo released this revised model in 2011. It removed GameCube support entirely, no controller ports, no memory card slots, no ability to play GameCube discs.
The Family Edition sits horizontally only. Nintendo eliminated the vertical stand option. This version costs less on the used market but sacrifices functionality.
Wii Mini (RVL-201)
The Wii Mini arrived in 2012 as a budget option. It lacks internet connectivity, SD card support, and GameCube compatibility. The red-and-black design looks different from standard Wii consoles.
Most buyers should avoid the Wii Mini unless they want the cheapest possible option. The missing features limit its usefulness significantly.
What to Look for When Buying a Used Wii
Finding the best Nintendo Wii on the used market requires some attention to detail. Here’s what smart buyers check before purchasing.
Disc drive functionality matters most. Test the console with multiple discs if possible. A Wii that struggles to read games will only get worse over time. Listen for grinding or clicking sounds during disc loading.
Check the model number on the back of the console. The RVL-001 offers the most features. Confirm GameCube ports work if that compatibility matters to the buyer.
Inspect the sensor bar included with the console. These small infrared devices wear out or break easily. Replacement sensor bars cost around $10, but buyers should factor this into their purchase decision.
Test all controller functions. Wii remotes should respond accurately to motion. The infrared pointer should track smoothly. Nunchuk joysticks can develop drift over time.
Verify the power supply matches the correct voltage for the region. Third-party adapters sometimes cause issues. Original Nintendo power supplies work most reliably.
Ask about the console’s history. Systems stored in humid conditions may have internal corrosion. Consoles from smoking households often have residue buildup affecting performance.
Essential Accessories for Your Wii Setup
The best Nintendo Wii experience requires the right accessories. Some come standard while others enhance gameplay significantly.
Wii Remote Plus controllers include Motion Plus technology built in. Original Wii remotes need a separate Motion Plus adapter for certain games. The integrated version works better and looks cleaner.
Nunchuk attachments plug into the Wii remote for games requiring analog stick control. Most action and adventure titles need this accessory. Buying remotes with nunchuk bundles saves money.
Classic Controllers provide a traditional gamepad experience. They’re essential for Virtual Console games and certain Wii titles. The Classic Controller Pro version adds grip handles and repositioned shoulder buttons.
Component cables deliver the best picture quality the Wii can produce. Standard composite cables output blurry 480i video. Component cables enable crisp 480p resolution on compatible TVs.
Third-party HDMI adapters convert the Wii’s analog output to digital. These help connect older consoles to modern televisions lacking composite or component inputs. Quality varies between brands, read reviews before buying.
Rechargeable battery packs eliminate the need for disposable AA batteries. Wii remotes drain batteries quickly during extended play sessions. A good charging dock pays for itself within months.
Top Games to Play on the Nintendo Wii
The best Nintendo Wii means nothing without great games. These titles showcase what made the console special.
Wii Sports defined the system at launch. Bowling, tennis, baseball, golf, and boxing demonstrated motion controls perfectly. Nearly every Wii owner has played this pack-in title.
Super Mario Galaxy and its sequel represent Nintendo at peak creativity. These platformers use motion controls subtly while delivering some of Mario’s best adventures.
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess and Skyward Sword offer lengthy action-adventure experiences. Skyward Sword requires Motion Plus for its sword-fighting mechanics.
Mario Kart Wii remains one of the best-selling racing games ever made. Online servers shut down in 2014, but local multiplayer still delivers chaos and fun.
Super Smash Bros. Brawl brings Nintendo characters together for fighting game mayhem. It supports GameCube controllers on original Wii models.
Wii Sports Resort expands on the original with swordplay, archery, basketball, and more. It showcases Motion Plus capabilities effectively.
New Super Mario Bros. Wii revived 2D Mario platforming with four-player co-op. Families still enjoy playing through its levels together.
Donkey Kong Country Returns challenges players with tough platforming action. It’s one of the best-looking games on the system.