Hajimete no Wii Playtest

December 6th, 2006, 00:21 Posted By: wraggster

Via IGN

We've already reviewed Hajimete no Wii based off the Australian version, which is known by the game's clever English name of "Wii Play." So what's the point of writing about the Japanese version, which launched with the Wii on 12/2? Well, in addition to alerting you to the new movies and screens that we've posted, we wanted to emphasize just how great a choice the title is for those wanting to kick off the Wii experience for beginners and, surprisingly, gaming veterans alike.

Hajimete no Wii includes nine games, as described in depth in our review . Initially, you have access to just one of the games. Play it (even just for a bit) and a new game opens up. You'll be able to unlock all the games in just a few minutes of play.

As one might expect, the includes games are, on the whole, simple -- hence the Japanese surname, "Your First Step to Wii." The games provide a good introduction of the various ways in which the Wiimote can be used, both as a direct pointing device and as a replacement dummy device for everything from a table hockey paddle to a shot gun.

Despite the simplicity, the games offer a lot of hidden depth for those looking to go after high scores. They also show how to properly implement Wiimote controls, a lesson that that some of the other Japanese launch titles could benefit from. The solid execution makes us want some of these games expanded into full games -- particularly the pool and tank games. Add a few options, Nintendo, and you could sell these things for full price!

Hajimete no Wii is also one of the few games to make full use of your Mii collection. You can chose to play as one of the Miis in your library (even one that was sent to you). The Mii appears as your in-game alter-ego in some games. In the pool game, the Mii's face is a sticker on the pool ball. The table tennis game has other Miis in your collection appear as spectators, with the number growing depending on how long you can keep up a rally.

All this for 1,000 yen plus the cost of the included Wiimote. It's too bad that Nintendo couldn't get Hajimete no Wii ready for the American launch, but next year, when Wii Play sees release, if you find yourself in need of another Wiimote, this should be a no-brainer.

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