So I got a Wii mini yesterday. I’ve not had a chance to use it (I’m not sure I will) but I did manage to take a few snaps to compare it with the old Wii and the Wii U.
We’ve seen quite a few comparisons with the original Wii and we can see it above with my Wii. It’s practically the same size and does less. Sure, it’s lighter, and quite considerably so, but that’s because it has less in it. Let’s look at what it’s missing:
No Gamecube compatibility
No SD card slot (internal storage of an undisclosed amount)
Only one USB port
No internet connection at all, not even wired which means no Wii Ware or Virtual Console games, or Wii Speak compatibility
Component cable compatibility is gone (which means no 480p)
So why did they call it the Wii mini? I think it’s because they intend it to stand along side the Wii U, and not the original Wii. When you compare it to the Wii U, it is a lot smaller and lighter. The lack of internet means it’s practically a guaranteed safe gaming experience and more suited to the paranoid parents who themselves have no technical or reading abilities to learn how to set parental controls.
The colour scheme is amazing and in pictures it doesn’t looks so bad. But when you hold it you can see that the plastic on this thing feels and looks cheap. It’s that mottled texture that really drags it down. The flip-top disc tray also feels flimsy.
Having said all that, I do like this. It’s weird and quirky because it makes no sense. And I got another red Wii Remote Plus and Nunchuk (which would set you back about £45-£55 anyway) with quirky console for a little extra.
Pre-orders for the amazing Figma Kid Icarus: Uprising figures are now up at import toy retailers, including AmiAmi, which I’ve linked here. Both Pit and Pittoo sell for ¥2,910 ($35) and come with … oh no … an exclusive AR card in their first editions.
The special edition Animal Crossing: New Leaf 3DS up close (click for a larger image).
I know the attention right now is on Wii U unboxings, but let’s take a moment to admire this newly released beauty that will likely never come to the U.S..
In December, through its local iQue branding, Nintendo will release these three special 3DS XL units for the Chinese market that not only boast fancy designs, but include Mario Kart 7 and Super Mario 3D Land as pre-installed games.
The EU market is seriously underwhelmed with 3DS XL love. All we have is a promise of a Pikachu 3DS XL and not even a release date for it. LOOKS AT THESE? THEY ARE GLORIOUS. Still keeping my fingers crossed for an Animal Crossing 3DS XL.
These are my recent attempts at “art” from the introductory lessons of New Art Academy. I love the lessons. They’re so calming, really quite interesting with little facts thrown in, and most importantly a lot of fun.
I've added you to 3DS. Will you add me please? 3179-6706-6788
Hey, sorry for the delay in replying. I had to wait until my 3DS was connected to the internet but I’ve now added you.
Lastly we have what can probably now be referred to as a retro collection. Though that makes me feel SO OLD. I used to have pretty much everything Game Boy Advance and Gamecube related but sold it all. What a fool. So when there’s a a bit of a lull in release schedules, I take the opportunity to seek some gaming treasures and here’s what I’ve amassed so far:
Limited Edition Gold Game Boy Advance SP + The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap
The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures + Link Cable
Nintendo Gamecube Wavebird Controller
Donkey Konga + Bongos
Donkey Konga 2 + Bongos
Donkey Kong: Jungle Beat
Super Mario Sunshine
The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker Limited Edition
Wario World
1080 Avalanche
Kirby Air Ride
Wave Race Blue Storm
Chibi-Robo!
I obviously need a lot more to get anywhere with this collection. I’ll be looking for F-Zero GX, Animal Crossing, Luigi’s Mansion, Pokémon Box and the The Legend of Zelda Collection for starters. Not the mention some classic GBA games. I also need a Game Boy Micro. I’m not too fussed about the original Game Boy Advance. Maybe when I have everything else I need will I start to look for the stuff I consider to be less important to the collection.
There are also some strategy guides as you can see, which are:
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D
Pokemon Black & White Versions
Pokédex
I don’t read these really. And I was so upset with Ocarina of Time 3D didn’t come in the lovely limited edition variety that I have the other two in. There’s a Spirit Tracks book like those that I need.
This is all my Wii related stuff. I still have a long way to go to consider this a good collection. Plenty of early games are missing due to me selling my second attempt at at a Nintendo collection (this is my third and I AM NOT SELLING IT EVER!).
Super Mario Bros. 25th Anniversary Edition console
Wii Fit Plus
Animal Crossing: Let’s Go To The City + Wii Speak
The Last Story Limited Edition
Super Mario All-Stars 25th Anniversary Edition
The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword + Gold Wii Remote and Soundtrack