Wii:What to expect when upacking your Nintendo Wii console system

Featuring a compact design that compliments any television setup, the Nintendo Wii is the most inexpensive new-generation home video game console on the market today. This innovative "family gaming console" can be purchased in participating electronic stores or conveniently online.



If you are a die-hard gaming fan, and you are opening the system's box, be prepared to find more than cardboard, Styrofoam and plastic bags. The launch package should also contain the following components.



• Console: A white, sleek console with a slot for inserting discs. The rectangle can be displayed either vertically or horizontally and fits just about anywhere. The console is complimented by a distinguished wireless controller.



• Console stand: The console stand consists of a rectangular gray stand and a flat, clear plastic Wii stand plate. Its features include a fitted storage compartment for the Wii remote and Nunchuk, a Sensor Bar slot for protection and built-in airflow channels for venting.



• Remote: This white, hand-held device has buttons and is battery-operated. It is the primary controller for Nintendo's Wii console. Use its clear plastic sleeve for protection against dropping it and liquids. The device has motion sensing capabilities, which allows you to interact with and manipulate items on your screen via ‘gesture recognition' and ‘pointing'. This unique feature is realized through the use of accelerometer and optical sensor technology. In addition, the remote is expandable through the use of attachments.



• Nunchuk: The white hand unit with a thumbstick emerging from the top and a wire hanging down at the bottom has two trigger buttons and is named after the martial arts weapon ‘nunchaku'. It has 3 major control functions: direct input, motion sensor function and communicating with the Wii remote control. This attachment also provides a three-axis accelerometer for motion-sensing and tilting, but unlike the Wii Remote, there is no speaker, rumble function, or a pointer function



• Sensor bar: the wii Remote senses light from the console's thin black sensor bar and features ten infrared LEDs, five at each end of the bar. Also included are a clear plastic pedestal and sticky tape so you can affix the bar to your TV. The sensor bar has to sit parallel to the TV screen and level with the ground.



• Power adapter: The external, rectangular main power adapter should come with two AA batteries.



• Composite AV Cables: The standard audio/video cables included with the Wii system will allow you to connect the console to most televisions or video cassette recorders (VCR.



• Manuals and Warranty: Operating manuals are mandatory. You will need them for the system setup, channels and settings. A ‘quick setup foldout' card will assist those already familiar with Wii, and if you intend to use their gaming system frequently, don't miss out on the Wii extended warranty pamphlet.



Depending on where you buy your bundle package, the deal may also have starter games incorporated. The Wii Sports game disc, Animal Crossing and Mario Kart are only a few of the favorites. If you are lucky, the dealer may even throw in a bonus steering wheel remote, zapper, balance board or guitar controller. Then all you have to do is, prepare some snacks, invite your friends and have the party of your life!