In December 2006, Nintendo introduced Wii, a video game console that promised to revolutionize gaming. One year later, the company launched Wii Fit, a fitness game and balance board peripheral. Ever since their releases, both items have been flying off store shelves. Naturally, we wanted to see for ourselves what all the fuss is about.

When the editorial staff sat down to discuss the articles for this issue of YOU Magazine, we slotted our piece on the Wii and Wii Fit under "Your Technology". After purchasing the items and playing with them, we realized that we could have just as easily placed it under "Your Body" or even "Your Family". You'll see what we mean in a bit. For now, here are some of the specifics you should know.

Wii
Upon the Wii's release in '06, overwhelming demand made it difficult for stores to keep it in stock. A little more than a year and half later, this is no longer the case, as the console can now be found in a variety of department stores, electronic/toy stores, and online. It's slightly relieving to know that the price is the same nearly everywhere you go, just under $250 before tax.

You can find some deals online, but proceed with caution in terms of purchasing through websites such as eBay® or Craigslist®. It's still best to drive down to a local seller and purchase your Wii for the regular price. You'll know that you are purchasing a brand new machine, and you won't have to wait for shipment in order to enjoy it.

When you purchase the Wii console, the following are the items it should include:

• 1 Wii console
• 1 Remote
• 1 Nunchuk (a separate paddle used in conjunction with the remote for some games)
• 1 Sensor bar (used to pick up the wireless signal from the remote)
• 1 Console stand
• 1 AC adaptor
• 1 AV cable
• Wii Sports game disc
• User manuals
• 2 AA batteries (for the remote)

Nintendo guarantees their hardware for one year, and the software and accessories for three months. You should know, however, that the company warranty does not cover any damage to the items caused by you. If this is a concern, you may want to consider purchasing the store's extended warranty. Just be sure to first find out what it actually includes.

Something to keep in mind is that while the Wii comes equipped with enough hardware and software to get started, obtaining items such as additional remotes and nunchuks allows for simultaneous participation from multiple players. These items can be procured separately for fairly standard prices, as well as in a "bundle" along with the standard console package.

We found the Wii extremely easy to hook up and get started. The only requirements are a TV with AV inputs (yellow, red, and white colored jacks) and a free electrical outlet nearby. From there, hooking up your Wii is as simple as plugging this into that, finding your TV's proper "input select" setting, and pressing the power button. Your console should start right up.

Getting started using your Wii is also very simple, as the built-in software guides you through the process. One incredible option is the Wii's ability to connect to the Internet. We found this to be an extremely easy process and doing so allowed us to access some fun features, such as channels with weather and news updates, and the Wii Shop Channel.

The one item of software included with your purchase of the Wii console is the Wii Sports game disc. Tennis, bowling, golf, baseball and boxing are all on this disc.

Players begin by creating an avatar for themselves known as a Mii. You and your Mii are now ready to compete in any of the aforementioned sports. Working via a wireless signal, the remote (sometimes used in conjunction with the nunchuk) is moved and manipulated by the player in order to simulate a golf club, baseball bat, tennis racket, etc.

Wii Fit (including the balance board peripheral)
Just like the Wii console, Wii Fit was a hard-to-find item at one time. While it still can be a little hit or miss at some stores, a phone call or two should be all it takes to track one down. It also carries a fairly standardized price - just under $90 at most stores.

When you purchase the Wii Fit, the following are the items it should include:

• Wii Fit game disc
• Balance board (includes coaster adaptors for use on carpet)
• 4 AA batteries (for the balance board)
• User manual

The user manual states that the Wii Fit comes with a 1-year warranty on hardware, and a 3-month warranty on software and accessories. But here's the catch. Nintendo considers the balance board to be an accessory, not hardware, so it's only covered for 90 days. It's a little confusing, so buyers beware.

The Wii Fit is also available as a "bundle", including a carrying case for the balance board, a yoga mat, and a lithium battery pack. We found the majority of these bundles to be a little overpriced for what you get, so think twice before purchasing.

In terms of hooking up the balance board, it's as simple as inserting the Wii Fit disc into the console and following the instructions. This is where things get interesting.

Wii Fit provides you with a training regimen of your choice, individualized goal setting, and either a male or female trainer for help along the way. What's really cool is that Miis from the Wii system console follow you to the Wii Fit and are used to track your fitness progress.

The program starts off by weighing you and calculating your body mass index via the balance board. At that point, the system puts you through a small battery of tests in order to determine your Wii age. The goal of training is to get into better shape, thus lowering your Wii age.

Training is divided into four categories: yoga, strength training, balance, and aerobics, with various games and exercises included in each category. Ski jumping, snow boarding, hoola-hoop, tight rope walking, step aerobics, jogging, and calisthenics are just a few examples.

While you train, the system keeps track of your progress and offers tips to help you improve. As your times and scores get better the system unlocks new games and exercises for you to try.

An overall review...
To say the Wii is fun and somewhat addicting is an understatement. But, before we tell you the rest of the good stuff we thought it wise to share a few complaints.

Don't expect the graphics of Wii or Wii Fit games to surpass those of the X-Box® or PlayStation®3. We found them to be very "cartoonish" in a Nintendo-like way. That said we suspended our disbelief pretty quickly.

Just like any video game, there is a learning curve with the Wii and Wii Fit. Some games and exercises are easier to pick up than others. In terms of the numerous additional games that can be purchased, many can be spotty in terms of overall quality. Our advice is to do your research before buying any of them. All Wii and Wii Fit games are given an age rating, so be sure to start there. It's also a good idea to go online and Google™ the individual titles for feedback from gaming websites and bloggers.

That last bit of criticism is one we've come across through our research, but it's not an opinion we share. It seems that some users feel the Wii Fit doesn't offer enough accountability in terms of your workout. Seriously? Just like getting yourself to the gym, utilizing the Wii Fit for its benefits requires dedication. It's a video game, not a life coach.

The negative stuff is out of the way, so it's on to the positive. For starters, the Wii and Wii Fit are virtual and interactive unlike any other gaming system. It's one thing to press a button in order to enact a command. It's a whole other story when you have to move your hand, twist your wrist, or swing your arm to do it. It is this sort of physicality that creates the feeling of rolling a bowling ball or swinging a tennis racket.

We found that playing the Wii is more of a social experience than what's normally associated with other gaming systems. It's not uncommon to play along with family members or with a group of friends. Games and conversation seem to take place simultaneously, making it extremely entertaining.

There are also many practical uses for both the Wii and Wii Fit, as evidenced by their use in both senior citizen homes and physical rehabilitation centers. Reports have come in from around the country of incapacitated men and women now partaking in simulations of the activities they once enjoyed.

Professional athletes even use the Wii and Wii Fit. Prior to the start of this year's baseball season, San Diego Padres relief pitcher, Heath Bell, reported to spring training 25 pounds lighter than he was the year before. He credits his weight loss to playing Wii Games and Wii Fit with his kids.

Educational games for the Wii such as Wii Music, Big Brain Academy and My Word Coach have gotten rave reviews from teachers and are currently being used in many classrooms and teaching situations. Combining education with fun is hard to argue against.

You should know that we've only scratched the surface of what the Wii can do, let alone what it will be able to do in the future. Take a look at some of the peripherals and games that are already available and you'll see what we mean.

So, do we like the Wii and Wii Fit? The answer is no. We love them! We're not suggesting that you head to your local toy store to buy one today. But, if you're in the market for a gaming system, and you're looking for something that is fun, practical and offers more than just the standard video games, the Wii and Wii Fit could be the system for you.

Wii and the Wii logo are trademarks of Nintendo. © 2009 Nintendo.