Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Vikings' Adrian Peterson rehabs using specially-designed games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/12/vikings-adrian-peterson-rehabs-using-specially-designed-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/12/vikings-adrian-peterson-rehabs-using-specially-designed-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/12/vikings-adrian-peterson-rehabs-using-specially-designed-games/#comments Vikings' Adrian Peterson rehabs using speciallydesigned gamesAdrian Peterson, star running back for the Minnesota Vikings, suffered a torn ACL in December 2011. As part of Peterson's regiment to rehab his injured knee, he played Wii Fit and other specially-designed games to regain strength and balance.

As seen in a video on the team's site, Peterson uses a leg press machine to guide an on-screen icon through a maze of boxes in one game, and dodge falling balls in another. The exercise machine strengthens his knee while also providing him with something other than agonizing pain to focus on. With the high-powered training programs they're used to, it's interesting to see a pro football player include games like these as part of their recovery methods.

JoystiqVikings' Adrian Peterson rehabs using specially-designed games originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 12 Aug 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adrian-petersonfootballminnesota-vikingsNFLnintendorehabRehabilitationvikingswiiwii-fitSun, 12 Aug 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fit patent lawsuit dismissed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/wii-fit-patent-lawsuit-dismissed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/wii-fit-patent-lawsuit-dismissed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/wii-fit-patent-lawsuit-dismissed/#comments We know you've been unable to sleep restfully since the announcement of InterAction Laboratories' 2010 lawsuit against Nintendo, so you'll be relieved to know the situation is resolved. Nintendo announced this morning that a Maryland judge has summarily dismissed the case, which alleged that Nintendo's Wii Fit games and Balance Board accessory (among pretty much every other Nintendo peripheral) violated patents owned by IA Labs for exergaming devices.

IA Labs' last announced gaming product was the "XR Station," a controller attached to a big lever, that players must exert pressure on -- push, pull, lean -- to operate. It also showed the "Sqweeze" in 2008: a Wiimote peripheral with two rubber grips to squeeze.

Continue reading Wii Fit patent lawsuit dismissed

JoystiqWii Fit patent lawsuit dismissed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balance-boardexergamingia-labsinteraction-laboratorieslawsuitnintendowiiwii-fitFri, 02 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii becomes best-selling current generation console in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/wii-becomes-best-selling-current-generation-console-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/wii-becomes-best-selling-current-generation-console-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/wii-becomes-best-selling-current-generation-console-in-europe/#comments We're always wary to talk numbers and Europe in the same breath, mostly because numbers over there don't mean the same as they do here. "One pound is a half kilogram? What does that even mean?" Luckily for us, there's no way to misconstrue the fact that the Wii is now the best-selling console in Europe this generation.

The European chapter of the Wii Defense Force is popping the bubbly now, we imagine, celebrating the 30 million Wii consoles in the region as of 2011's end. New console bundles brought a new "value Wii" into the region, The PS3 isn't far behind, however, with reports of over 22 million consoles sold at the end of August. But, the Wii figure looks even better when compared to the GameCube, which sold 4.7 million throughout its five year lifetime in Europe and Australia, combined.

On the peripheral front, Nintendo's also got robust sales figures for its Wii Balance Board and its bundled titles, Wii Fit and Wii Fit Plus, to celebrate. 22.67 million copies of Wii Fit and 19.31 million copies of Wii Fit Plus have been sold worldwide.

JoystiqWii becomes best-selling current generation console in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balance-boardeuropenintendopalsaleswiiwii-balance-boardwii-fitWii-Fit-Pluswii-jrWed, 11 Jan 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NPD: Guitar Hero 3 is this generation's highest-grossing game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/25/npd-guitar-hero-3-is-this-generations-highest-grossing-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/25/npd-guitar-hero-3-is-this-generations-highest-grossing-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/25/npd-guitar-hero-3-is-this-generations-highest-grossing-game/#comments Call of Duty: Black Ops might be the best-selling game by unit sales, but it isn't the US bestseller in terms of gross revenue. According to NPD data going back to 1995, and compiled by CNBC, the honor of the highest-grossing game of "this generation" goes to another Activision game, the Axl Rose-angering Guitar Hero 3: Legends of Rock. Black Ops is #2.

The list of the NPD's top ten best-selling games by revenue (after the break) includes a second Guitar Hero game, too -- R.I.P. -- along with Rock Band and both Wii Fits, which suggests that the best way to make a lot of revenue is simply to make your game cost more. Although Wii Play and Mario Kart Wii are also on the list, so maybe people just really like finding peripherals inside their game boxes, like cereal box prizes.

Continue reading NPD: Guitar Hero 3 is this generation's highest-grossing game

JoystiqNPD: Guitar Hero 3 is this generation's highest-grossing game originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Mar 2011 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-duty-4GH3GH3-Legends-Of-RockGuitar-Hero-3Guitar-Hero-3-Legends-Of-Rockguitar-hero-world-tourLegends-Of-Rockmario-kart-wiimicrosoftmodern-warfare-2nintendonpdpcplaystationps3rock-bandsaleswiiwii-fitwii-playxboxFri, 25 Mar 2011 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon offers buy one, get one 40 percent off; Wii bundles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/amazon-offers-buy-one-get-one-40-percent-off-wii-bundles/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/amazon-offers-buy-one-get-one-40-percent-off-wii-bundles/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/amazon-offers-buy-one-get-one-40-percent-off-wii-bundles/#comments Amazon's ramping up for the one-two thrift punch of Black Friday and Cyber Monday with a fairly handsome deal of its own -- buy any one of the many, many games on this list, get another for 40 percent off. Or, buy a new Wii and Balance Board, get a $50 Amazon gift card on the free.

Continue reading Amazon offers buy one, get one 40 percent off; Wii bundles

JoystiqAmazon offers buy one, get one 40 percent off; Wii bundles originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Nov 2010 21:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonblack-friday-2010microsoftnintendoplaystationps3wiiWii-FitxboxTue, 16 Nov 2010 21:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fit used to diagnose football-related concussions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/21/wii-fit-used-to-diagnose-football-related-concussions/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/21/wii-fit-used-to-diagnose-football-related-concussions/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/21/wii-fit-used-to-diagnose-football-related-concussions/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Did you know that a football player's vocation requires them to hurtle their head at other football players' heads with little regard for the safety of either? Did you know that this type of reckless cranial colliding can cause concussions and other serious, long-term head injuries? It's true -- but according to the Washington Post, athletic trainers at the University of Maryland and Ohio State University have found a tool to help diagnose and monitor players' dome-piece health: Wii Fit.

Trainers at the two universities now require players to use the Wii Balance Board to get a baseline reading of their -- what else? -- balance. When a player suffers a fairly nasty blow to the head region, they can take another Wii Fit test to see if their balance has deteriorated -- one of the telltale signs of a concussion. Man, combine this test with the Vitality Sensor, and the Wii will become a one-stop-shop for sports-related injury diagnoses!

JoystiqWii Fit used to diagnose football-related concussions originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 21 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balance-boardfootballhealthnintendosportswiiWii-FitSat, 21 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fit and Wii Fit Plus move one million units in Australia]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/wii-fit-and-wii-fit-plus-move-one-million-units-in-australia/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/wii-fit-and-wii-fit-plus-move-one-million-units-in-australia/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/wii-fit-and-wii-fit-plus-move-one-million-units-in-australia/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Here at Joystiq, there's only one thing we value above video games: your health. And we were beginning to get worried about you specifically, Australia -- that is, until we heard you guys were trying to trim those love handles.

Nintendo of Australia has announced it's managed to sell one million copies of Wii Fit and Wii Fit Plus (including the balance board). And while Oz isn't necessarily one of the fattest countries out there, according to a World Health Organization study back in 2007 (via Forbes), its people aren't exactly the benchmark for healthy living, either.

But hey, you gotta start somewhere and we're just glad you guys have taken that first step towards healthy living. If you're looking to build upon Nintendo's workout program, let us know. We'll let you borrow our Sweatin' to the Oldies tapes.

JoystiqWii Fit and Wii Fit Plus move one million units in Australia originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendosaleswii-fitWii-Fit-PlusWed, 07 Jul 2010 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[US Navy considering fitness video games for boot camp]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/us-navy-considering-fitness-video-games-for-boot-camp/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/us-navy-considering-fitness-video-games-for-boot-camp/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/us-navy-considering-fitness-video-games-for-boot-camp/#comments Kubrick's Full Metal Jacket effectively scared an entire generation away from boot camp. However, a new tactic being considered by the US Navy may completely change our perception of boot camp: video games. In the latest issue of Navy Times, Navy Surgeon General Vice Admiral Adam Robinson (he does sound important) suggested that games like Wii Fit and Dance Dance Revolution could help "newcomers to the military service build up the endurance they need to get in shape safely."

According to the report, today's recruit requires much more work to get into "fighting shape" than in the past. With America's youth becoming increasingly sedentary, the US Navy has observed an increasing number of injuries suffered during boot camp. Recruits are "not used to the amount of standing and running that comes in recruit training," the report indicates. Games would theoretically provide a more approachable, familiar solution for physical activity.

However, don't expect games to completely replace current recruit training techniques. The US Navy is simply looking into the possibility of augmenting its current regimen with fitness games. Additionally, there's no timetable in place for when games would be introduced into the military. Still, we're eager to see if the boot camps of the future will look less like the one in Kubrick's war movie and more like ... this.

[Thanks Joseph!]

JoystiqUS Navy considering fitness video games for boot camp originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 May 2010 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boot-campdance-dance-revolutionmilitarynavyNintendostop-being-fatus-navyWiiwii-fitWed, 26 May 2010 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop holding Wii Fit Plus demo events]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/gamestop-holding-wii-fit-plus-demo-events/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/gamestop-holding-wii-fit-plus-demo-events/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/gamestop-holding-wii-fit-plus-demo-events/#commentsIf lifestyle software like Wii Fit Plus is truly "evergreen," selling for long periods of time beyond the normal sales cycle, then we suppose it follows that its marketing can be evergreen as well. Which is why Nintendo can hold "Wii Fit Plus Demo Days" at GameStops across the U.S. now, even though Wii Fit Plus was released in October 2009.

If you're curious about, say, the ridiculous Bird's Eye Bulls-Eye event, or the ability to create workout routines, you can go to one of the 100 participating stores between 1-4pm on April 25 or May 2 and try it out for yourself.

JoystiqGameStop holding Wii Fit Plus demo events originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Apr 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exerciseexergamingfitnessgamestopNintendoWiiwii-fitwii-fit-pluswii-fit-plus-demo-daysWed, 21 Apr 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Scientists using Balance Board in stroke rehab]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/scientists-using-balance-board-in-stroke-rehab/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/scientists-using-balance-board-in-stroke-rehab/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/scientists-using-balance-board-in-stroke-rehab/#comments While the Balance Board is a good tool for controlling cute little monkeys and perhaps creating a career, Australian scientists have found it's also an inexpensive way to measure the balance in stroke patients. University of Melbourne scientist Ross Clark decided to pick one up after reading that some physicians were using Wiimotes to help recuperating soldiers, and found it to be "an extremely impressive strain gauge set-up." That's a very good thing, considering the only alternative is a "force platform" which can set scientists back a hefty £11,000 ($15,700).

There aren't any results out of Melbourne yet, but if you're interested in what's under the hood of that little plastic pad you're slowly turning a kind of brownish-black (would it kill you to wear clean socks when using it?), check out this Nintendo Channel video from back in the day.

[Via Kotaku and New Scientist]

JoystiqScientists using Balance Board in stroke rehab originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jan 2010 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiabalance-boardrehabross-clarksciencestudyuniversity-of-melbournewii-fitTue, 19 Jan 2010 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo and Target teaming up for Wii Fit Plus promo -- receive $15 gift card]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/nintendo-and-target-teaming-up-for-wii-fit-plus-promo-receive/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/nintendo-and-target-teaming-up-for-wii-fit-plus-promo-receive/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/nintendo-and-target-teaming-up-for-wii-fit-plus-promo-receive/#comments Nintendo and Target are teaming up for the "Wii Fit Plus Experience," which is apparently an elaborate version of the Sports Authority experience with prizes. Across the United States' lower latitudes, visitors to the experience, which will be held in the parking lot or entrance of the stores between January 16-31, will gain (/groan) "feet-on" time with Wii Fit Plus.

Those who complete the Wii Fit Plus demo will receive a $15 gift card (while supplies last), which "can be applied toward any Target purchase." Therefore, we recommend humoring the Nintendo "ambassadors" working the kiosks. Gratefully take that gift card and blow it on junk food -- then get time-lapse coverage of all that junk food going straight to your ever-expanding butt and post it on YouTube. The locations holding the Wii Fit Plus Experience can be found after the break.

Continue reading Nintendo and Target teaming up for Wii Fit Plus promo -- receive $15 gift card

JoystiqNintendo and Target teaming up for Wii Fit Plus promo -- receive $15 gift card originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jan 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendopromotiontargetwii-fitwii-fit-plusThu, 14 Jan 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Memorex unveils line of Wii, Wii Fit, DSi gaming accessories at CES]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/memorex-unveils-line-of-wii-wii-fit-dsi-gaming-accessories-at/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/memorex-unveils-line-of-wii-wii-fit-dsi-gaming-accessories-at/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/memorex-unveils-line-of-wii-wii-fit-dsi-gaming-accessories-at/#comments
Click to enlarge
We're not sure what the tagline will be - "Is it first-party? Or is it Memorex?" - but the storied consumer electronics company best known for its blank cassette tapes (remember those?) has been busy branching out, and a new series of video games accessories targeting Nintendo's various products is its latest endeavor.

The company has taken the opportunity at CES to unveil a Wii racing wheel, a Wii wireless sensor bar, some sleeves for everything from your Wiimote to your Wii Fit balance board, a charging kit for your Wiimotes, a rechargeable battery pack for Wii Fit, and some DSi goodies as well. Like most of these offerings, there isn't much you'll find exciting here. Check out the full specs in the press release after the break, or, if you're a visual learner, flip through the gallery for some eye candy.

Gallery: Memorex Wii, Wii Fit, DSi accessories

Continue reading Memorex unveils line of Wii, Wii Fit, DSi gaming accessories at CES

JoystiqMemorex unveils line of Wii, Wii Fit, DSi gaming accessories at CES originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CES-2010DSdsimemorexNintendoperipheralsWiiWii-FitWed, 06 Jan 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NPD lists top-selling games of 2009 in US -- excluding December]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/14/npd-lists-top-selling-games-of-2009-in-us-excluding-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/14/npd-lists-top-selling-games-of-2009-in-us-excluding-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/14/npd-lists-top-selling-games-of-2009-in-us-excluding-december/#comments The NPD Group, which tracks sales of games in the US, handed over a list of the top 10 selling games this year through November to IndustryGamers. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 on Xbox 360 dominates the top spot with 4.2 million copies sold, while the PS3 version slips in at eighth place -- considering the data only goes up to November, a quick look at last month's NPDs could have told you as much.

The only other non-Nintendo titles at the top are Halo 3: ODST with 2 million and Madden NFL 10 on Xbox 360 with 1.5 million at the six and nine spots, respectively. Otherwise, Nintendo owns this list with first-party titles. If you're prepared to gaze upon the stunning sales Nintendo had in 2009, head on over to IndustryGamers for the data.

JoystiqNPD lists top-selling games of 2009 in US -- excluding December originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessdatahalo-3-odstmadden-nfl-10modern-warfare-2nintendonpdnpd-groupsaleswii-fitwii-motion-plusMon, 14 Dec 2009 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sports Authority to begin selling Wii consoles, Wii Fit Plus in stores]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/sports-authority-to-begin-selling-wii-consoles-in-stores/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/sports-authority-to-begin-selling-wii-consoles-in-stores/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/sports-authority-to-begin-selling-wii-consoles-in-stores/#comments Somewhere between the jockstraps and gun racks, The Sports Authority will begin selling Wii and Wii Fit Plus in select stores. Company President David Campisi says, "Sports Authority recognized that the Wii console is a product that can help you stay active and have fun with your family at the same time, which is why the retail partnership with Nintendo is a perfect fit." Meanwhile, the American Council on Exercise finds the actual benefits of Wii Fit "underwhelming."

But, forget the ACE telling us that doing the real-world versions of Wii Fit exercises is healthier, Sports Authority has a multi-million unit selling console and excercise program to sell! Who cares if it actually works -- or people use it? Sports Authority has sold plenty of products over the years to people looking to get healthy, and parents whose kids want to try a new sport, which then get used a few times and exist afterward as dust collectors 'til the end of days.

JoystiqSports Authority to begin selling Wii consoles, Wii Fit Plus in stores originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Nintendosports-authorityWiiwii-fitwii-fit-plusTue, 17 Nov 2009 14:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Fitness group 'underwhelmed' by Wii Fit exercises]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/11/fitness-group-underwhelmed-by-wii-fit-exercises/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/11/fitness-group-underwhelmed-by-wii-fit-exercises/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/11/fitness-group-underwhelmed-by-wii-fit-exercises/#comments The American Council on Exercise recently conducted a study on the effectiveness of Nintendo's Wii Fit, and was "underwhelmed" by the results (PDF link). The study examined what the ACE dubbed to be the "most aerobically challenging activities," including the Free Run, Island Run, Super Hula Hoop, Free Step, Advanced Step and Rhythm Boxing. The study found that Free Run burned the most calories, averaging at 165 calories burned during a thirty-minute session. The next highest was Rhythm Boxing at 114, not exactly the fat-melting miracle one might hope for. Said Dr. John Porcari, "The Wii Fit is a very, very mild workout."

The ACE noted that performing the real-life activity -- real boxing, step aerobics, running, etc. -- burns significantly more calories than their Wii Fit counterparts. As an example, the study notes that traditional boxing burns three times as many calories as Rhythm Boxing. That said, the study did note that Wii Fit burns twice as many calories as normal video games, and that's got to count for something.

Still, if you're looking to really feel the burn, the study concluded that Wii Sports "is a better option" for gamers looking to find a decent workout.

Source - ACEFitness.org -- Wii Fit - Or Just a Wee Bit? (PDF)

JoystiqFitness group 'underwhelmed' by Wii Fit exercises originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 06:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aceAmerican-Council-On-ExerciseexercisefitnessnintendoWiiwii-fitWed, 11 Nov 2009 06:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Buy Wii Fit Plus, get free water]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/10/buy-wii-fit-plus-get-free-water/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/10/buy-wii-fit-plus-get-free-water/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/10/buy-wii-fit-plus-get-free-water/#comments
Did you upgrade to Wii Fit Plus so you can stay in shape over the holidays? While some may question the validity of a Wii Fit "workout," premium water company Hint is trying to capitalize on the craze by offering all purchasers of Nintendo's latest fitness title a free case of water. A standalone copy of Wii Fit Plus costs $20, while a 12-pack of Hint water costs $22, making this quite the "deal."

According to its official website, "Hint is a pure healthy water lightly infused with natural flavors. Unsweetened. Lightly flavored. No calories." If you're into that sort of thing, you can send in a digital scan of your Wii Fit Plus receipt to hintwater@5wpr.com. You'll be able to choose from one of the following flavors: Blackberry, Watermelon, Pomegranate Tangerine, Mango Grapefruit or Raspberry Lime.

JoystiqBuy Wii Fit Plus, get free water originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>freehinthint-waterpromowaterwii-fitwii-fit-plusTue, 10 Nov 2009 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Joyswag: Wii Fit Plus and a Wii Fit Plus shirt [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/joyswag-wii-fit-plus-and-a-wii-fit-plus-shirt/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/joyswag-wii-fit-plus-and-a-wii-fit-plus-shirt/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/joyswag-wii-fit-plus-and-a-wii-fit-plus-shirt/#comments Update: That's it, folks -- the contest has come to a close! Keep an eye on your email's inbox to see if you won!

With the major pound-packing holidays bearing down on us at breakneck speed, we thought it prudent to help a few of you shed those unwanted love handles with a free copy of Wii Fit Plus. Are you game? See below for how to enter -- best of luck!
  • Leave a comment telling us whether or not you actively exercise
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec)
  • Limit 1 entry per person per day
  • This entry period ends at 11:59AM ET on Wednesday, November 11
  • At that time, we'll randomly select one winner to receive Wii Fit Plus for the Nintendo Wii ($20 ARV) and a Wii Fit Plus workout shirt ($20 ARV)
  • For a list of complete rules, click here

JoystiqJoyswag: Wii Fit Plus and a Wii Fit Plus shirt [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>joyswagwii-fitwii-fit-plusThu, 05 Nov 2009 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Joyswag: Get your exercise on with Wii Fit Plus & Active Life Extreme Challenge]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/joyswag-get-your-exercise-on-with-wii-fit-plus-and-active-life-ex/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/joyswag-get-your-exercise-on-with-wii-fit-plus-and-active-life-ex/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/joyswag-get-your-exercise-on-with-wii-fit-plus-and-active-life-ex/#comments
As we approach the colder months of the year here at Joystiq HQ, we like to fool ourselves by picking up the latest Wiinovations in the world of game-based exercise equipment, knowing wholeheartedly that they'll never end up getting much use. This year, however, we figured we would extend that same ideological principle to you. We hope that your moral certitude will employ Wii Fit Plus and Active Life Extreme Challenge (it's totally extreme) more than we would! We'll be picking a winner for this enticing exercise pack at random from the folks who comment below -- all you have to do is tell us your favorite exercise fad of all time. Get those finger muscles moving!
  • Leave a comment telling us your favorite exercise fad of all time.
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec, largely due to Celine Dion)
  • Limit 1 entry per person per day
  • This entry period ends at 2:31PM ET on Monday, November 2
  • At that time, we'll randomly select one winner to receive a copy of Wii Fit Plus ($20 ARV) and Active Life Extreme Challenge ($60 ARV)
  • For a list of complete rules, click here

JoystiqJoyswag: Get your exercise on with Wii Fit Plus & Active Life Extreme Challenge originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>active-lifeactive-life-extreme-challengeactivisionexercisegiveawayjoyswagwii-fitwii-fit-plusMon, 26 Oct 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fit may surpass San Andreas sales, Wii Play is top selling 'game' of the last 10 years]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/13/wii-fit-may-surpass-san-andreas-sales-wii-play-is-top-selling/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/13/wii-fit-may-surpass-san-andreas-sales-wii-play-is-top-selling/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/13/wii-fit-may-surpass-san-andreas-sales-wii-play-is-top-selling/#comments
Wii Fit is on the verge of becoming the second-highest selling "game" in the US of the last 10 years. IGN reports on NPD data, revealing that Wii Fit has reached 7.9 million sales, passing by Grand Theft Auto: Vice City's 6.9 million and creeping up quickly on Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas' 8.25 million units. The only thing ready to kill Wii Fit's momentum is Wii Fit Plus, which will replace the previous version at retail.

Some out there are probably ready to argue that Wii Fit should not be counted among other games. Yeah, those folks are going to pitch a fit about the top seller: Wii Play. The controller-bundled "software" holds the crown, having reached 11.1 million sales. We can't wait to see how the Vitality Sensor does.

JoystiqWii Fit may surpass San Andreas sales, Wii Play is top selling 'game' of the last 10 years originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Oct 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand-theft-auto-san-andreasNintendonpdWiiwii-fitwii-fit-pluswii-playTue, 13 Oct 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[This Week on the Nintendo Channel: Sweatin' to Wii Fit Plus]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-sweatin-to-wii-fit-plus/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-sweatin-to-wii-fit-plus/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-sweatin-to-wii-fit-plus/#comments
We hope you like watching people exercise, because that's about all there is on the Nintendo Channel this week. Outside of that, there's also a look at Miis in Tony Hawk Ride and a brief clip of Space Invaders Extreme 2, if that's your cup of tea. (Protip: It's totally your cup of tea. You drink it all of the time.)

Gallery: Wii Fit Plus (Wii)

Continue reading This Week on the Nintendo Channel: Sweatin' to Wii Fit Plus

JoystiqThis Week on the Nintendo Channel: Sweatin' to Wii Fit Plus originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendo-channelwii-fitwii-fit-plusMon, 12 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Balance Board used in experimental airport screening study]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/09/balance-board-used-in-experimental-airport-screening-study/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/09/balance-board-used-in-experimental-airport-screening-study/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/09/balance-board-used-in-experimental-airport-screening-study/#commentsThe US has invested a healthy amount of money into combating the terrorist threat -- certainly a bit more than $100. According to a CNN report, one of a few experimental methods being used to identify suspicious dudes at the airport uses Nintendo's Wii Balance Board (sans Wii Fit Plus).

Scientists part of the Future Attribute Screening Technology (FAST) program have taken the Wii Fit peripheral and adjusted it to measure how a person shifts their weight. Scientists hope to find "a level of fidgeting that would suggest the need for secondary screening." We're just glad we're not a part of the study, because every time we step on a Balance Board, we can't help but act like we're playing that awesome hula hoop minigame. That's a suspicious amount of fidgeting.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqBalance Board used in experimental airport screening study originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balance-boardfastfuture-attribute-screening-technologyNintendoterrorismWiiwii-fitFri, 09 Oct 2009 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Super Mario Wii, Zelda: Spirit Tracks & others dated for Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/01/new-super-mario-wii-zelda-spirit-tracks-and-others-dated-for-eur/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/01/new-super-mario-wii-zelda-spirit-tracks-and-others-dated-for-eur/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/01/new-super-mario-wii-zelda-spirit-tracks-and-others-dated-for-eur/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Arguably the two biggest titles set to release on their respective platforms this year, New Super Mario Bros. Wii and The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks have both been dated by Nintendo of Europe. NSMBW is set to invade living rooms on November 20, while Spirit Tracks will be pulling into the station on December 11. But that's not all, as Nintendo has also dated Wii Fit Plus for October 30 and plans to cater to your inner fashionista with Nintendo Presents Style Boutique on October 23.

Nintendo of America previously confirmed NSMBW for November 15 and Zelda for December 7; and Wii Fit Plus releases ... this Sunday! Time to sculpt that perfect figure again.

JoystiqNew Super Mario Wii, Zelda: Spirit Tracks & others dated for Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSeuropelegend-of-zeldaNew-Super-Mario-Bros-WiiNintendopalPlatformrelease-daterelease-datesspirit-tracksstyle-savvythe-legend-of-zelda-spirit-tracksWiiwii-fitwii-fit-plusThu, 01 Oct 2009 12:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fit Plus out Oct. 4 at a svelte $20 price point]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/wii-fit-plus-out-oct-4-at-a-svelte-20-price-point/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/wii-fit-plus-out-oct-4-at-a-svelte-20-price-point/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/wii-fit-plus-out-oct-4-at-a-svelte-20-price-point/#commentsDuring his keynote at the GameStop Manager Conference, Nintendo president Reggie Fils-Aime announced release details for Nintendo's latest money generator, Wii Fit Plus. Current Wii Fit owners looking to add more arm-flapping and faux-Segwaying to their lives will be able to pick up the expanded version of the hit exercise game for just $19.99 on October 4.

For new owners, a Wii Fit Plus bundle will replace the existing Wii Fit bundle, which makes sense given that it's the exact same game with added content. The Wii Fit Plus/Balance Board package will retail for $99.99.

Gallery: Wii Fit Plus (Wii)

JoystiqWii Fit Plus out Oct. 4 at a svelte $20 price point originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exercisegamestop-manager-conference-2009NintendoWiiwii-fitwii-fit-plusTue, 01 Sep 2009 00:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Sports approaches 50 million copies sold]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/31/wii-sports-approaches-50-million-copies-sold/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/31/wii-sports-approaches-50-million-copies-sold/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/31/wii-sports-approaches-50-million-copies-sold/#commentsIn a supplement to Nintendo's earnings statement yesterday, the company released some sales numbers for top-selling games in the last quarter. Four Nintendo products sold over one million copies between April and July, only one of which was a new release anywhere in the world during that time.

Pokemon Platinum on DS, which came out in North America in March, right before the quarter started, moved 1.91 million copies in Q1, for a life-to-date total of 5.66 million worldwide.

It was an even better quarter for the Wii's evergreens. Wii Fit sold an additional 3.6 million copies, bringing its LTD to 21.82. Mario Kart Wii sold 2 million, making its total 17.39 million. And Wii Sports sold an additional 1.91 million copies, bringing its total sales number to a ridiculous 47.62 million, including copies sold in hardware bundles.

And that's why there's a sequel.

Source (PDF)

JoystiqWii Sports approaches 50 million copies sold originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Jul 2009 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSearnings-reportmario-kart-wiiNintendopokemon-platinumsalesWiiwii-fitwii-sportsFri, 31 Jul 2009 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo's Q1 fiscal results show sales slump]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/nintendos-q1-fiscal-results-show-sales-slump/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/nintendos-q1-fiscal-results-show-sales-slump/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/nintendos-q1-fiscal-results-show-sales-slump/#comments
Nintendo released its latest financial earnings report for the period ending June 30 (Q2 to us, but fiscal Q1 to those business types at the house Mario built) ... and it could've been better. Don't be fooled: Nintendo still managed to make profits across the board, but compared to the same period last year, profits weren't nearly as dramatic.

First, let's talk DS. Nintendo revealed lifetime sales of the DS has reached a whopping 107.75 million units and that the new DSi has managed to reach a respectable 6.68 million. Hardware sales for this quarter were lower than last year, however, as Nintendo revealed it only sold 5.97 million handhelds compared to the 6.94 million sold in 2008's fiscal first quarter. Even software was down quite a bit, with a mere 29.09 million units of DS software flying off store shelves this quarter compared to the more impressive 36.69 million of last year.

On the Wii side, Nintendo revealed lifetime sales have reached 52.62 million units, but that 2009 console sales were down as well. Nintendo reported that during this year's fiscal first quarter, the company could only unload 2.23 million Wiis compared to the 5.17 million it sold during this same time period last year. Software on the platform also took a hit, as Nintendo recorded only 31.07 million units managed to find consumer's homes compared to the 40.41 million of last year. It's important to note that last year's sales were significantly boosted by the releases of Mario Kart Wii and Wii Fit.

So, as one can guess, Nintendo saw its massive profits shaved down quite a bit this past quarter. With all of the dips in hardware and software sales, Nintendo saw its net sales drop a staggering 40 percent to ¥253.4 billion ($2.65 billion) compared to last year's ¥423.38 billion ($4.43 billion). Nintendo also saw a drop in its operating income, which fell from last year's ¥119.19 billion to ¥40.4 billion ($1.25 billion to $422.5 million), a decline of 60.61 percent. So ... who do you call when your money-printing machine is on the fritz?

JoystiqNintendo's Q1 fiscal results show sales slump originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Jul 2009 11:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessDShardwarejapanmario-kart-wiinintendonintendo-dsisalessoftwareWiiwii-fitThu, 30 Jul 2009 11:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Japan gets Wii Fit Plus on October 1]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/japan-gets-wii-fit-plus-on-october-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/japan-gets-wii-fit-plus-on-october-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/japan-gets-wii-fit-plus-on-october-1/#comments
Japan will get Nintendo's new and improved version of its fitness title on October 1, as andriasang discovered the above advert showcasing the date for Wii Fit Plus. Not only that, but you can also see a price there: ¥2,000 (about $20) for the game alone, ¥9,800 (about $102) for the game and Balance Board bundle. Who knows if it'll be priced accordingly when it hits the States this fall, though we think it's a safe bet. If there's one thing a gaming blog knows best, it's fitness and exergaming software.

[Thanks, Mr. Khan!]

JoystiqJapan gets Wii Fit Plus on October 1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Jul 2009 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balance-boardexergamingjapanwii-fitwii-fit-plusThu, 30 Jul 2009 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[UK chart get: Tourists flock to Wii Sports Resort]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/27/uk-chart-get-tourists-flock-to-wii-sports-resort/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/27/uk-chart-get-tourists-flock-to-wii-sports-resort/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/27/uk-chart-get-tourists-flock-to-wii-sports-resort/#comments
Now that Nintendo has finally started chartering some flights to lovely Wuhu Island, folks have been eager to snap up Wii Sports Resort for their very own ticket. In the UK, Chart Track data shows the follow-up to 2006's console pack-in is quite the popular little piece of software, as the sequel earned the top spot on last week's All Formats chart. Strong start, but will it have the staying power of Wii Fit?

Last week's winner, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, has thus been bumped down to the second spot, with EA's other darling, Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10, snagging bronze.

JoystiqUK chart get: Tourists flock to Wii Sports Resort originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chart-trackharry-pottermotionplusNintendotiger-woods-pga-tour-10ukuk-chart-getWiiwii-fitwii-motionpluswii-sports-resortMon, 27 Jul 2009 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[UK chart get: Harry Potter and the EA Games of Popularity]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/21/uk-chart-get-harry-potter-and-the-ea-games-of-popularity/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/21/uk-chart-get-harry-potter-and-the-ea-games-of-popularity/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/21/uk-chart-get-harry-potter-and-the-ea-games-of-popularity/#comments
EA has dominated the UK charts once again, as the publisher saw three of its titles grace the top five spots in the All Formats category last week. Chart-Track data shows that the one-two punch of a new Harry Potter movie in cinemas and a new game on store shelves was too potent a potion for UK customers to ignore, with Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince shooting to the top spot.

Harry and his Gryffindor chums were joined by Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10, which dropped from the second spot all the way to third, and Fight Night Round 4, a previous top spotter that has plummeted to fifth place. Rounding out the remainder of the top five were Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, which rested comfortably in second, and Wii Fit, which has dropped down to fourth.

JoystiqUK chart get: Harry Potter and the EA Games of Popularity originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Jul 2009 04:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chart-trackeaEA-Canadaea-sportsElectronic-Artsfight-night-round-4Fightingharry-potterharry-potter-and-the-half-blood-princeMicrosoftNintendoSportstiger-woods-10tiger-woods-pga-tour-10transformerstransformers-revenge-of-the-fallenuk-chart-getWiiwii-fitXboxXbox-360Tue, 21 Jul 2009 04:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Top five best sellers for 2009 tracked for each console ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/20/top-five-best-sellers-for-2009-tracked-for-each-console/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/20/top-five-best-sellers-for-2009-tracked-for-each-console/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/20/top-five-best-sellers-for-2009-tracked-for-each-console/#comments
Finding it hard to get interested in the June NPDs? Perhaps a visual aide from the folks at Gamasutra will help boost your enthusiasm. They've compiled the sales figures from all of 2009's NPD charts to find the top five best-selling games of the year thus far on each of the three home consoles.

The big winner so far on the PS3 is Killzone 2, trailed closely by Resident Evil 5. On the 360, Resident Evil 5 is currently in the lead, followed by a surprising contender -- UFC 2009: Undisputed. The Wii's current leader is -- who'd have thunk it? -- Wii Fit, followed by Wii Play. For the full five for each platform, check out Gamasutra's writeup.

JoystiqTop five best sellers for 2009 tracked for each console originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Jul 2009 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chartkillzone-2MicrosoftNintendonpdrankingresident-evil-5ufc-2009-undisputedWiiwii-fitwii-playXbox-360Mon, 20 Jul 2009 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fit is UK's best seller for 2009 so far ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/wii-fit-is-uks-best-seller-for-2009-so-far/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/wii-fit-is-uks-best-seller-for-2009-so-far/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/wii-fit-is-uks-best-seller-for-2009-so-far/#comments
Nintendo is king of the UK retail gaming jungle, according to ELSPA GfK-ChartTrack data. The House of Mario holds the top four spots for titles sold on the isles during the first half of 2009.
  1. Wii Fit
  2. Wii Play
  3. Mario Kart Wii
  4. Professor Layton And The Curious Village
  5. Killzone 2
Yes, surprisingly, Killzone 2 did take the fifth spot, beating out Resident Evil 5. ELSPA's director states that the figures indicate "gaming is now mainstream in the UK." And that a lot of people in the UK think they (or a loved one) need to lose 10 lbs.

[Via VideoGamer]

JoystiqWii Fit is UK's best seller for 2009 so far originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesselspaenglandgfk-charttrackNintendoukWiiwii-fitMon, 06 Jul 2009 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Top brands of 2008 owned by Nintendo, EA, Activision, and not Sony]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/30/top-brands-of-2008-owned-by-nintendo-ea-activision-and-not-so/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/30/top-brands-of-2008-owned-by-nintendo-ea-activision-and-not-so/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/30/top-brands-of-2008-owned-by-nintendo-ea-activision-and-not-so/#commentsWedbush Morgan Securities' 2009 industry report includes a list of the top thirty brands of 2008. The report notes that of the companies whose brands appear on the list, Nintendo, EA, and Activision were the only three with more than one brand to generate over $100 million at retail in the US last year.

And boy, did they. The top brand of the year, Guitar Hero -- perhaps you've heard of it -- was responsible for $992 million in US sales in 2008. The next two brands, Mario Bros. and Rock Band, generated $761 million and $662 million, respectively.

One company is notably absent from the top brands list: "Most strikingly," the report reads, "Sony had no top 30 brands for the third year in a row." Microsoft had two brands on the list (Gears of War and Fable) and Nintendo had four (Mario Bros., Wii Fit, Wii Play, and Pokémon). See the list of brands after the break.

Continue reading Top brands of 2008 owned by Nintendo, EA, Activision, and not Sony

JoystiqTop brands of 2008 owned by Nintendo, EA, Activision, and not Sony originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbrandseaElectronic-Artsfablegears-of-warguitar-heromariopachterpokemonrock-bandwedbush-morganwii-fitwii-playTue, 30 Jun 2009 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on (and flapping like wings): Wii Fit Plus]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/hands-on-and-flapping-like-wings-wii-fit-plus/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/hands-on-and-flapping-like-wings-wii-fit-plus/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/hands-on-and-flapping-like-wings-wii-fit-plus/#commentsWhile the idea of leaning on a board and waving a stick around may no longer carry an inherent wow factor after everyone has introduced a motion controller, it's clear from just a few minutes with Nintendo's Wii Fit Plus that the company has been thinking of new ways to use its existing technology in gameplay. We weren't allowed to demo the new strength or yoga exercises in the expanded version of the megahit Wii exercise game -- thus sparing a crowd of gaming's best and brightest the sight of us stretching -- but the new balance games were open to us.

Gallery: Wii Fit Plus (Wii)

Continue reading Hands-on (and flapping like wings): Wii Fit Plus

JoystiqHands-on (and flapping like wings): Wii Fit Plus originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balance-boarde3-2009exerciseNintendoWiiwii-fitwii-fit-plusMon, 08 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fit Plus shapes up for fall, lets you 'be' Mario]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/wii-fit-plus-shapes-up-for-fall-lets-you-be-mario/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/wii-fit-plus-shapes-up-for-fall-lets-you-be-mario/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/wii-fit-plus-shapes-up-for-fall-lets-you-be-mario/#comments As expected, Nintendo has seen fit to announce Wii Fit Plus during its E3 presser. The new fitness software is planned for release this fall in two flavors: bundled with the Wii Balance Board and as stand-alone software.

According to Cammie Dunaway, the new Wii Fit "moves in an added direction" beyond the original, by enabling users to "create a specific workout program that's perfect" for them. Six new strength and yoga activities can be mixed and match depending on what goals they're shooting for, and there's a revamped interface focused on creating seamless routines of 20, 30, 40 minutes (and conceivably more).

Strengthening the "core" appeal, Plus will introduce 15 new minigames -- juggling, skateboarding and something called "perfect 10" were shown, the latter requiring players to move their hips to select numbers that add up to 10. "Brain Age for your backside," Cammie said. The most exciting minigame: a forward-moving "platforming" level using gameplay elements from the Mario series.

JoystiqWii Fit Plus shapes up for fall, lets you 'be' Mario originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Jun 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakinge3-2009nintendoWiiwii-fitwii-fit-plusTue, 02 Jun 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Wii Fit Plus features revealed, heavily online-focused]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/31/rumor-wii-fit-plus-features-revealed-heavily-online-focused/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/31/rumor-wii-fit-plus-features-revealed-heavily-online-focused/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/31/rumor-wii-fit-plus-features-revealed-heavily-online-focused/#commentsThe lid's been blown off Wii Fit Plus; been there, done that. But, if your inner fitness nut is craving more info, Japan's Nihon Keizai Shimbun newspaper has posted some potential details on the title.

Supposedly, Wii Fit Plus boasts some new online connectivity to allow family members and friends to compete in the loss-of-flabby-arms race. Also, the new software is supposedly going to allow for more accurate measuring of weight and center of gravity, though it's said this improvement comes from the software side, and not some new Balance Board Nintendo has been hiding up its sleeve.

While we can't comment on this new information from Nihon Keizai Shimbun, it's pretty much a done deal on this whole Wii Fit Plus business. Remember to have those bingo cards ready, folks!

[Via IGN]

JoystiqRumor: Wii Fit Plus features revealed, heavily online-focused originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 31 May 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2009nihon-keizai-shimbunwii-fitwii-fit-plusSun, 31 May 2009 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo trademarks 'Wii Fit Plus' and 'Art Academy' ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/27/nintendo-trademarks-wii-fit-plus-and-art-academy/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/27/nintendo-trademarks-wii-fit-plus-and-art-academy/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/27/nintendo-trademarks-wii-fit-plus-and-art-academy/#commentsNintendo's core needs a workout, but it looks like the company may be planning to pump up its casual audience even more at next week's E3 with Wii Fit Plus. Originally uncovered in April via purported retailer listings, the game's title has been officially trademarked by Nintendo in Japan. Heck, there's even a logo for the game. Since the month-old rumor has borne fruit in terms of an accurate title, we're more likely to believe the November 2009 release date it claimed.

Also trademarked by the Big N is Art Academy, a previously unheard -of title with no target platform mentioned. Detailed drawing would seem to lend itself more to DS, though we can't help but imagine a game in the vein of Wii Music in which players "paint" great works of art -- the Mona Lisa, the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel -- simply by waggling the Wiimote around.

[Via Siliconera]

JoystiqNintendo trademarks 'Wii Fit Plus' and 'Art Academy' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 May 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>art-academynintendoWiiwii-fitwii-fit-plusWed, 27 May 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The 'Wii Riiser Aerobic Step' for ... the Wii Balance Board]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/22/the-wii-riiser-aerobic-step-for-the-wii-balance-board/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/22/the-wii-riiser-aerobic-step-for-the-wii-balance-board/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/22/the-wii-riiser-aerobic-step-for-the-wii-balance-board/#comments
From the folks that brought you ... erm ... a bunch of case mods for the Xbox 360, comes the "Wii Riiser Aerobic Step" for your Wii Fit Balance Board. Just in case you were unsatisfied with the heights that the existing step peripheral offered, Zoozen has gone out and created an attachment to boost the level up to a more challenging four inches.

The company contests this is the average height of an actual stepper (which we won't point out also costs significantly less than the Wii Fit and "Wii Riiser Aerobic Step" combined), and as such, will help "improve your step aerobic workout." While we're sure this peripheral would attach to your Balance Board that much easier than two pieces of equally sized wood, we're not so sure it would serve a different purpose. Zoozen's "Wii Riiser Aerobic Step" is available now for the not-so-nice price of $39.99.


JoystiqThe 'Wii Riiser Aerobic Step' for ... the Wii Balance Board originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Apr 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balance-boardperipheralswii-fitwii-riiser-aerobic-stepzoozenWed, 22 Apr 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Quantify the burn with the Wii Fit Calorie Meter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/quantify-the-burn-with-the-wii-fit-calorie-meter/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/quantify-the-burn-with-the-wii-fit-calorie-meter/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/quantify-the-burn-with-the-wii-fit-calorie-meter/#commentsWhy doesn't Wii Fit include an estimate of the calories you burn during exercises? That would be really useful. Nintendo seems to agree, at least -- it has created a Flash application that does just that.

The Wii Fit Calorie Meter couldn't be easier to use, unless it were in English! Push the big green button in the middle to start, then enter your weight (in kilograms). You can then click on each exercise you've done (or plan to do) and tell the calculator the number of sets you've done of each. The app will add up your calories as you go!

We suspect we'll see this thing in English soon enough, but the interface is so easy to figure out, there's no reason you can't augment your Wii Fit exercise routine now.

[Via Famitsu]

JoystiqQuantify the burn with the Wii Fit Calorie Meter originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Apr 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>caloriesexercisewii-fitMon, 20 Apr 2009 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Corleone staying power: Godfather II holds 2nd spot in UK charts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/corleone-staying-power-godfather-ii-holds-2-spot-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/corleone-staying-power-godfather-ii-holds-2-spot-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/corleone-staying-power-godfather-ii-holds-2-spot-in-uk/#comments
For another week in the United Kingdom, Godfather II has managed to secure the illustrious second spot on the top entertainment software list. According to Chart-Track, this is the second week in a row the game has been in the number two spot -- but there are some titles releasing to the PAL territory that could topple this kingpin. It'll be interesting to see what the charts look like next week.

Of course, Godfather II was predictably bested again by Wii Fit, so it's not all gabbagool and broken kneecaps in the UK. Not yet, anyway ...

JoystiqCorleone staying power: Godfather II holds 2nd spot in UK charts originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Apr 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseaElectronic-Artsgodfather-2Microsoftpalsalesukwii-fitXbox-360Mon, 20 Apr 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Godfather 2 whacks competition in UK, debuts at number 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/15/godfather-2-whacks-competition-in-uk-debuts-at-number-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/15/godfather-2-whacks-competition-in-uk-debuts-at-number-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/15/godfather-2-whacks-competition-in-uk-debuts-at-number-2/#comments
The UK likes its crime, apparently, as EA's Godfather II has managed to soar to the #2 spot on the region's sales charts. Sure, we've seen a few Guy Ritchie flicks in our life, but we're fairly surprised that you lot turned out in droves to check out the exploits of the Corleone family. The game even managed to topple Resident Evil 5 and Mario and Sonic at the Olympics, which we all know are like crack to the UK.

Godfather II was not able to keep Wii Fit from the top spot this week, however. But, hey, the sky is still blue and the grass is still green, so what did you expect?

JoystiqGodfather 2 whacks competition in UK, debuts at number 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Apr 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseaelectronic-artsgodfather-2mario-and-sonicresident-evil-5salesukwii-fitWed, 15 Apr 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NYC schools testing Wii Fit for Phys Ed.]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/nyc-schools-testing-wii-fit-for-phys-ed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/nyc-schools-testing-wii-fit-for-phys-ed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/nyc-schools-testing-wii-fit-for-phys-ed/#comments
Some New York city schools are testing a new program for physical education, one that utilizes Nintendo's popular Wii Fit package. Trading in dodge balls for Balance Boards, several different schools received free bundles from Nintendo, but Lori Rose Benson, head of the Department of Education's Office of Fitness and Health Education, admits she wasn't on board at first. It didn't take her long to get with the program, however, as she realized that "students learn in lots of different ways and that we can engage students in physical activity through gaming and through interactive techniques," which is really what's important. Well, that and making sure you block all of those soccer balls.

JoystiqNYC schools testing Wii Fit for Phys Ed. originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Apr 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>educationexergamingfitnessgymnew-york-citynycphysical-educationwii-fitTue, 07 Apr 2009 15:00:00 EST