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[Obesity experts frown on Wii Fit's fatty-labeling, Nintendo apologizes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/17/obesity-experts-frown-on-wii-fits-fatty-labeling-nintendo-apol/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/17/obesity-experts-frown-on-wii-fits-fatty-labeling-nintendo-apol/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/17/obesity-experts-frown-on-wii-fits-fatty-labeling-nintendo-apol/#commentsFiled under: ,


Video games can occasionally be the source of some pretty disheartening self-realizations -- like the time Rock Band revealed that you've been lied to your entire life about your angelic singing voice, or when Vampire Rain made you realize that you have incredibly poor taste in video games. However, something tells us these revelations are a bit less heartbreaking than those about to be unleashed by Nintendo's latest best-seller, Wii Fit -- especially when the heart in question is the fragile, butter-soaked heart of an overweight child.

Or an average-weighted child, for that matter. You see, Wii Fit measures the user's Body Mass Index (BMI), a weight/height ratio commonly calculated by physicians, though the use of BMI measurements in children is criticized by many dietitians for its frequent inaccuracy. Nintendo recently issued an apology following an incident involving the hurtful labeling of a "solidly built" 10-year-old girl. So, it's like an electronic, $90 version of our fifth-grade gym teacher? We're sold!

JoystiqObesity experts frown on Wii Fit's fatty-labeling, Nintendo apologizes originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 17 May 2008 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apologybmibodymassindexfatnintendooverweightweightwiiwii fitwii-fitWiiFitSat, 17 May 2008 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Walmart pushing Wii Fit pre-order for Mother's Day]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/walmart-pushing-wii-fit-pre-order-for-mothers-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/walmart-pushing-wii-fit-pre-order-for-mothers-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/walmart-pushing-wii-fit-pre-order-for-mothers-day/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Wal-Mart is saying straight-up that mom could stand to lose a few pounds. Reuters reports that the mega-retailer's online division is pushing pre-orders of Wii Fit as a Mother's Day gift. Wii Fit doesn't release until May 19 in North America, but those who order the pressure-sensitive sweat-board before Mother's Day (May 11) will receive a $10 online gift card to use at Walmart.com in the future.

Kelly Thompson, Walmart.com's chief merchant, says the initial sales have been "extremely strong." Due to the fact that the system doesn't come out until a week after the holiday, Thompson recommends giving the $10 online gift card as a present. That's a great idea! We can see it now: "Hey mom, the passive-aggressive gift telling you that you're a fatty mcfat doesn't come for another week. Oh, in the meantime, here's a $10 gift card to Walmart.com." Somehow a nice brunch and flowers sounds like a better option.

JoystiqWalmart pushing Wii Fit pre-order for Mother's Day originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 May 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mothers-daymothers-day-giftmothers-day-giftswal-martwalmartWiiwii-fitwiifitFri, 02 May 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop offering free Wii Fit promo DVDs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/gamestop-offering-free-wii-fit-promo-dvds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/gamestop-offering-free-wii-fit-promo-dvds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/gamestop-offering-free-wii-fit-promo-dvds/#commentsFiled under:


For those of you who like to collect promotional DVDs, know that GameStop is giving away free DVDs that show off Wii Fit. Our best guess is that the footage on the DVD is things you've already seen (here at Wii Fanboy, we hope), so if you're intending on picking it up and catching something new to watch to hold you over until the bundle is released, then perhaps that might not be the best plan in the world.

Instead, we suggest you approach this as an opportunity to show it off to someone in your life who doesn't know what the 411 is. Show the game off to your mom, your English teacher or simply get a bunch of the DVDs and throw them around like ninja stars. That used to be fun with those AOL 3.0 CDs back in the day.

JoystiqGameStop offering free Wii Fit promo DVDs originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dvdgamestoppromopromotionwii-fitwiifitWed, 30 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Don't sweat Nintendo, Wii Fit rules UK sales charts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/28/dont-sweat-nintendo-wii-fit-rules-uk-sales-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/28/dont-sweat-nintendo-wii-fit-rules-uk-sales-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/28/dont-sweat-nintendo-wii-fit-rules-uk-sales-charts/#commentsFiled under: ,


The UK's Chart-Track has told GI.biz that Wii Fit debuted atop the sales charts with 16.3 million in sales. Some basic mathimicating tells us that means some 232,890 units were sold and Chart-Track estimates that 1 in 10 UK Wii console owners purchased the board.

The sales eclipsed the record-breaking launch of Mario Kart Wii, which saw a 62% drop in sales but still managed to stay in second place on the sales chart. In terms of money, the Wii Fit launch is the third biggest in UK history, behind GTA: San Andreas and Halo 3 (in fairness, it is £70, instead of £45 or less like many games). We can only imagine how the exercise system did in the rest of Europe ... or how it'll do next month in the glorious land of fat: America.

JoystiqDon't sweat Nintendo, Wii Fit rules UK sales charts originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Apr 2008 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chart-tracksalesukWiiwii-fitwiifitMon, 28 Apr 2008 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Pachter: Wii Fit to raise Wii demand, keep shortages going]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/pachter-wii-fit-to-raise-wii-demand-keep-shortages-going/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/pachter-wii-fit-to-raise-wii-demand-keep-shortages-going/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/pachter-wii-fit-to-raise-wii-demand-keep-shortages-going/#commentsFiled under:


Aside from his prediction that he thinks Wii Fit will sell 3-4 million this year, Michael Pachter has grabbed another estimation out from within his bag of tricks: Wii Fit will keep Wii shortages going as it will increase demand for the console. Pachter cited Nintendo's plan to market the crap out of Wii Fit, stating "the increased buzz will drive increased demand for the already difficult to find Wii hardware." Well, we know the UK is crazy over Wii Fit, but Nintendo shouldn't have as hard a time filling demand over there as they have had here in the states.

On Pachter's part, this is a pretty safe play to make. The preorders at Amazon are going through the roof and with Wii Fit being on Good Morning, America recently, we're sure the public is very receptive to the product. We're still not sure about that price tag, though.

JoystiqPachter: Wii Fit to raise Wii demand, keep shortages going originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessmichael-pachterpachtershortageshortageswii-fitwiifitWed, 16 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: The price of fitness]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/wii-warm-up-the-price-of-fitness/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/wii-warm-up-the-price-of-fitness/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/wii-warm-up-the-price-of-fitness/#commentsFiled under:


We were thinking about the confirmation yesterday that Wii Fit would be setting you back $90. That's a pretty hefty sum, if you ask us. Is it too hefty for you all, though? We've made a poll here for you to weigh in.

View Poll



JoystiqWii Warm Up: The price of fitness originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Apr 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exerciseexergamingfitnesshealthwii-fitwiifitWed, 16 Apr 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Separated at birth: Wii Fit Balance Board and Aperture Science turret]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/separated-at-birth-wii-fit-balance-board-and-aperture-science-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/separated-at-birth-wii-fit-balance-board-and-aperture-science-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/separated-at-birth-wii-fit-balance-board-and-aperture-science-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Is Nintendo an ancestor of Aperture Science? A dummy corporation? We recently recorded the North American voice of the Wii Fit Balance Board, and it bears an uncanny resemblance to Portal's happy little turrets. Even the hierarchy of henchmen follows Portal. Aperture science has GLaDOS, and Wii Fit has a male- or female-voiced personal trainer.

Yes, there are still a few differences. The Balance Board voice -- and we presume nefarious AI -- comes through the Wii and out a TV, while the turrets are all self-contained. Plus the balance board might not be trying to kill us. The verdict is still uncertain, but be warned.

Aperture Science turret


Wii Fit Balance Board

JoystiqSeparated at birth: Wii Fit Balance Board and Aperture Science turret originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Apr 2008 06:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aperture-sciencebalance-boardgladosnintendoPCportalPS3voiceWiiwii-fitwiifitXbox-360Wed, 16 Apr 2008 06:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Pachter: Wii Fit could keep Wii shortage going]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/pachter-wii-fit-could-keep-wii-shortage-going/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/pachter-wii-fit-could-keep-wii-shortage-going/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/pachter-wii-fit-could-keep-wii-shortage-going/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pacter states that after attending a recent Nintendo event that he now believes in the sales power of Wii Fit. He thinks Nintendo's fun for the fatties system could "cause a new boom in demand for the Wii." Adding that Nintendo's marketing campaign will aim directly at casual players and make the already scarce system even more difficult to find.


Pachter retains a "Buy" rating for Nintendo's stock and maintains the company's profit guidance is conservative. He believes Nintendo's momentum isn't stopping anytime soon. Wii Fit is available in North America beginning May 19 for $90.

JoystiqPachter: Wii Fit could keep Wii shortage going originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Apr 2008 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualpachtersupplyWiiwii-fitwiifitWed, 16 Apr 2008 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon opens preorders for Wii Fit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/amazon-opens-preorders-for-wii-fit/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/amazon-opens-preorders-for-wii-fit/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/amazon-opens-preorders-for-wii-fit/#commentsFiled under:


Following today's confirmation that the path to a more fit and healthy you with Nintendo's Wii Fit will cost you the hefty sum of $90 comes news that Amazon has opened up preorders for the bundle. When? Like, right now.

So for those of you who find the idea of parting with such a large amount of money irrelevant compared to the exercise the title will offer, then you might want to head on over and check out the page on Amazon. If you don't want to get it there, let us know where you plan on picking it up!



[Thanks, Justin!]

JoystiqAmazon opens preorders for Wii Fit originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Apr 2008 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonexerciseexergaminghealthwii-fitwiifitTue, 15 Apr 2008 20:02:00 EST<![CDATA[It's pricey to be Wii Fit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/its-pricey-to-be-wii-fit/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/its-pricey-to-be-wii-fit/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/its-pricey-to-be-wii-fit/#commentsFiled under:


Nintendo just sent us a press release confirming our darkest fears: Wii Fit is going to cost almost 1/3rd the price of a Wii at $90. Ouch, our wallets!

Of course, we all pretty much knew this was coming, but it's one thing to think something and another to have it told to you. That sound you hear? It's our wallets breathing a sigh of relief, for they know that us lowly bloggers cannot afford such a costly package.

With the bundle costing so much, we wonder if it'll do as well as some think it will?

JoystiqIt's pricey to be Wii Fit originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Apr 2008 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balance-boardbundleexerciseexergamingnintendopricewii-fitwiifitTue, 15 Apr 2008 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq impressions: Wii Fit mini-games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/joystiq-impressions-wii-fit-mini-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/joystiq-impressions-wii-fit-mini-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/joystiq-impressions-wii-fit-mini-games/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Sure, Wii Fit is about health and lifestyle, but I'm looking forward to the games; I sampled some of the lesser-known modes at the recent Nintendo Media Summit. We've already played with the hula-hoop, soccer, ski-jump, and other basics, so I jumped straight to tightrope walking, floating in a bubble, and other later unlockables. But first, I warmed up with jogging.

Gallery: Wii Fit

Continue reading Joystiq impressions: Wii Fit mini-games

JoystiqJoystiq impressions: Wii Fit mini-games originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Apr 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mini-gameminigamenintendo-media-summi...nintendo-media-summit-08Wiiwii-fitwiifitTue, 15 Apr 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pachter says 3-4 million for Wii Fit in 2008]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/02/pachter-says-3-4-million-for-wii-fit-in-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/02/pachter-says-3-4-million-for-wii-fit-in-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/02/pachter-says-3-4-million-for-wii-fit-in-2008/#commentsFiled under:


Apparently, there's a lot of folks out there looking to tone up their life with Wii Fit. That's what Michael Pachter thinks, as he predicts a whopping 3-4 million copies of Wii Fit being sold in this year alone. That's a $90 package that he expects between 3 and 4 million folks to buy. Wow.

"Wii Fit will sell 3 million to 4 million in the US if they market aggressively," Pachter said. Well, if Pachter read Wii Fanboy, he'd know that they are putting a lot into their marketing of the game. And, if Pachter's lack of reading game blogs are any indication, the man is woefully under-prepared to make any kind of prediction.



[Via Gamespot]

JoystiqPachter says 3-4 million for Wii Fit in 2008 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Apr 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertadvertisingexerciseexergamingmarketingpachterwii-fitwiifitWed, 02 Apr 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[U.S. boxart for Wii Fit celebrates diversity]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/u-s-boxart-for-wii-fit-celebrates-diversity/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/u-s-boxart-for-wii-fit-celebrates-diversity/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/u-s-boxart-for-wii-fit-celebrates-diversity/#commentsFiled under: ,


The final package design for Nintendo's Wii Fit bundle (game and the Balance Board) does, in fact, feature diversity through not only the ethnic backgrounds of each individual on the cover, but also through their age, and even down to the different play styles one can enjoy Wii Fit with. It's a celebration of individuality and, also, a smart way to market a product.

It just shows people, predominantly displayed as they participate in the activities the bundle offers. Nothing to read, nothing to think about, just a visual representation of what you're in for should you sign up. It's a good way to sell it to the mass-market crowd that the Wii has been such a success with.


[Via NeoGAF]

JoystiqU.S. boxart for Wii Fit celebrates diversity originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balance-boardbalanceboardboxartexerciseexergamingwii-fitwiifitThu, 20 Mar 2008 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fit makes Australia sweat May 8]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/11/wii-fit-makes-australia-sweat-may-8/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/11/wii-fit-makes-australia-sweat-may-8/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/11/wii-fit-makes-australia-sweat-may-8/#commentsFiled under: ,


Another continent getting Wii Fit before the US? Oh, the irony. Gamespot reports Wii Fit will help Australians through their winter doldrums beginning May 8 at the suggested price of $150 Australian ($140 USD, €91). The Aussie retail Wii Fit includes the same peripherals and software as other regions.

Wii Fit has already sold over a million units in Japan and is ready to feel the burn in Europe beginning April 25 for £69.99 in the UK, and €89.99 for everyone else. The US has a scheduled release of May 19, but no price has been set.

JoystiqWii Fit makes Australia sweat May 8 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Mar 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaWiiwii-fitwiifitTue, 11 Mar 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Euro retailer Game expects greater profits thanks to 'buoyant' market]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/03/euro-retailer-game-expects-greater-profits-thanks-to-buoyant-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/03/euro-retailer-game-expects-greater-profits-thanks-to-buoyant-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/03/euro-retailer-game-expects-greater-profits-thanks-to-buoyant-m/#commentsFiled under: ,


Things continue to look rosy for UK-based mega-retailer Game Group, as the company today announced that it raised its profit expectations for the year from £73 ($145 million) to £74 million ($147 million). Says the financial gurus at Bloomberg, the chain has much thanks to lay at the feet of Nintendo and its platforms' appeal to "women and older customers" for the elevated expectations.

The group's like-for-like sales for the fifty weeks leading to January 12 were up around 43 percent while the company expects further growth of around 5 to 10 percent in the current year, driven by a "buoyant" video game market. Preliminary financial results are expected to drop on April 29, though given thin competition and what Game calls "a strong pipeline of innovative software," including such titles as Nintendo's Wii Fit and Mario Kart, as well as Rockstar's Grand Theft Auto IV, we expect those calling the shots for the retailer to remain swimming in the deep end of the money pool for a good while longer.

JoystiqEuro retailer Game expects greater profits thanks to 'buoyant' market originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Mar 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europegamegame-groupgamegroupgta-ivgtaivmario-kartmariokartwii-fitwiifitMon, 03 Mar 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fit priced for Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/wii-fit-priced-for-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/wii-fit-priced-for-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/wii-fit-priced-for-europe/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Europe found out today how much Wii Fit will cost them when it releases on April 25 -- as we continue to bathe in the irony that the Europeans will get an exercise tool a month before the US. The UK will have a Wii Fit membership fee of £69.99, while the rest of Europe pays €89.99.

The conversion of those prices to USD ends up being around $130, but Europeans are used to paying more for their games, and although Nintendo has yet to set price for the US, it did say that it would be under $100. So, $99.99?

[Via Wii Fanboy]

JoystiqWii Fit priced for Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Feb 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europenintendoWiiwii-fitwiifitWed, 27 Feb 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo: Wii Fit steps into US May 19, WiiWare launches May 12]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/wsj-wii-fit-steps-into-us-may-19-wii-ware-launches-may-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/wsj-wii-fit-steps-into-us-may-19-wii-ware-launches-may-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/wsj-wii-fit-steps-into-us-may-19-wii-ware-launches-may-12/#commentsFiled under: ,


Update: Nintendo has confirmed these dates with a press release.

The Wall Street Journal reports that Nintendo's highly anticipated and equally exhausting balancercise board and game, Wii Fit, will arrive arrive beneath American feet on May 19th. The exercise program and peripheral, a result of designer Shigeru Miyamoto's habitual monitoring of his own weight, has sold over a million units in Japan following its launch in December.

The article, which predicts an official announcement from Nintendo later today (see update above), also pins the launch of the WiiWare service to May 12th. WiiWare will be a new download service offering smaller, independent games from developers such as Steel Penny Games and doublesix.

[Via Wii Fanboy]

JoystiqNintendo: Wii Fit steps into US May 19, WiiWare launches May 12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Feb 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsWiiWii-FitWiiFitWiiWareWed, 20 Feb 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: What do you want from Nintendo at GDC?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/wii-warm-up-what-do-you-want-from-nintendo-at-gdc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/wii-warm-up-what-do-you-want-from-nintendo-at-gdc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/wii-warm-up-what-do-you-want-from-nintendo-at-gdc/#commentsFiled under:


Well, the big thing this week is the Game Developer's Conference in San Francisco, as folks from the gaming industry get together and create pandemonium throughout the intertron by releasing new details on upcoming projects and revealing some for the first time. And we wouldn't have it any other way.

So we were wondering what you Nintendo lovers would want to see most from the show. A new game announcement? A release date set in stone for Wii Fit or perhaps Mario Kart? What kind of things regarding this week's show are rattling around in your mind?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: What do you want from Nintendo at GDC? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Feb 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gdc08gdc08fanboymario-kartmariokartwii-fitwiifitTue, 19 Feb 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo's Miyamoto, Iwata discuss Wii Fit origins]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/11/nintendos-miyamoto-iwata-discuss-wii-fit-origins/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/11/nintendos-miyamoto-iwata-discuss-wii-fit-origins/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/11/nintendos-miyamoto-iwata-discuss-wii-fit-origins/#commentsFiled under: ,


In the latest edition of "Iwata Asks," a series of articles in which Nintendo president and CEO Satoru Iwata interviews colleagues about their recent work, Shigeru Miyamoto finds himself discussing the origins of Wii Fit. Much like Pikmin and Nintendogs before it, the popular balancercise board has its roots in Miyamoto's everyday life. After a hectic work schedule heaped pressure and extra pounds onto the renowned designer's body, he swapped smoking for swimming and steadily grew more conscious of his body and his weight.

Next came a special diet which required frequent measurement and recording of body weight. "Personally, I quite enjoy doing things that become habitual, as if it was daily routine work," explains Miyamoto. "I put the scale and graph paper in the bathroom, and after continuing the pattern for a month, it became like a ritual before getting into the bath. I wasn't able to relax without doing it!" Transforming the habitual measurement into something fun was the next step, one that preceded months of prototyping and "upending the tea table" -- a reference to Miyamoto's tendency to make last-minute decisions and cause a panic right before a deadline.

JoystiqNintendo's Miyamoto, Iwata discuss Wii Fit origins originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Feb 2008 22:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>IwataMiyamotoSatoru-IwataShigeru-MiyamotoWiiWii-FitWiiFitMon, 11 Feb 2008 22:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Massage Feet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/wii-massage-feet/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/wii-massage-feet/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/wii-massage-feet/#commentsFiled under: ,


Wii Fit can be hard on your feet. So why not give them a nice massage? And by "give them a nice massage," we mean "make them stand on some plastic nubs." Japan Trust Technology hopes that the nubs on their Silicone Fit Cover Tsubu Tsubu (tsubu tsubu refers to something grainy or pebbly) will be just the thing to put them at the top of the burgeoning Wii Fit board cover market.

In addition to feeling neat, the nubs help players keep their feet positioned properly and prevent slippage. JTT is selling this item online -- in blue only -- for 2480 yen ($23). We make fun of stuff like this, but we can certainly see the appeal of getting a nice cover for something that we have our feet on for hours.

[Via GAME Watch]

JoystiqWii Massage Feet originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Feb 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balance-boardcoverjttmassagewii-fitwiifitFri, 08 Feb 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fit #1 seller in Japan for last four weeks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/01/wii-fit-1-in-japan-for-last-four-weeks/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/01/wii-fit-1-in-japan-for-last-four-weeks/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/01/wii-fit-1-in-japan-for-last-four-weeks/#commentsFiled under: ,


There's just something about a pressure-sensitive balance board that's turning the Japanese on. Nintendo's Wii Fit game exercise device balancercise board has stayed at the top of the Japanese sales chart for the last four weeks and sold 1,283,000 units since Dec. 1. The device that made gameplay out of a scale reached the million mark in the middle of last month and looks to keep stepping its way to the top spot for a bit.

With Miyamoto saying Wii Fit isn't just a one trick pony, there'll hopefully be some software announcements following its US premiere. We're sure the mainstream media already has its prerequisite old folks home and "Wii Fit helping obese children" stories all planned out.

JoystiqWii Fit #1 seller in Japan for last four weeks originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Feb 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>salesWiiwii-fitwiifitFri, 01 Feb 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fit has serious money-printing potential]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/01/wii-fit-has-serious-money-printing-potential/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/01/wii-fit-has-serious-money-printing-potential/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/01/wii-fit-has-serious-money-printing-potential/#commentsFiled under:


Over the last four weeks, Wii Fit has enjoyed a top spot on the Japanese sales charts. Actually, it's enjoyed the top spot, as the bundle has been selling like crazy in the Land of the Rising Fun. If you're one who likes to keep track of the sales numbers for the region, then this is old hat to you. We know you're impressed though, because you can bet we definitely are.

And, as you are undoubtedly already pondering, this could be the very same scenario when Wii Fit releases to North America and Europe later this year.


[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqWii Fit has serious money-printing potential originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Feb 2008 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japansalessalesfigureswiifitFri, 01 Feb 2008 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Balance Board might not be one-trick pony]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/31/wii-balance-board-might-not-be-one-trick-pony/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/31/wii-balance-board-might-not-be-one-trick-pony/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/31/wii-balance-board-might-not-be-one-trick-pony/#commentsFiled under: , ,


With still no European or exact US release date to speak of, Wii Fit and its accompanying Wii Balance Board have been somewhat forgotten outside of Japan, where sales have been brisk. Nintendo, however, has certainly not neglected its pressure-sensitive peripheral, with tentative plans to take advantage of the Balance Board in future releases.

In a recent Famitsu magazine interview, Shigeru Miyamoto admitted that Nintendo may consider developing future software titles that use the Wii Balance Board, depending on how well the Wii Fit package performs overseas. Today, Namco Bandai is releasing Family Ski in Japan, which includes an option to play using the Balance Board. If Nintendo were to go ahead and continue developing for the Balance Board, would we be seeing more fitness titles, sports titles, or perhaps something else altogether?

JoystiqWii Balance Board might not be one-trick pony originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Jan 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balance-boardbalanceboardnintendoshigeru-miyamotoshigerumiyamotoWiiwii-balance-boardwii-fitwiifitThu, 31 Jan 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Campaigner calls Wii exercise in schools 'another gimmick']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/28/campaigner-calls-wii-exercise-in-schools-another-gimmick/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/28/campaigner-calls-wii-exercise-in-schools-another-gimmick/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/28/campaigner-calls-wii-exercise-in-schools-another-gimmick/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It seems the school is still the eminent source of name calling, as the Wii, which has managed to shrug off all the "little fad" comments thus far, has been subjected to yet another "another gimmick" label. This time, however, it's in relation to the UK Department of Health's endorsement of an in-school "active" games scheme designed by the Droitwich and Worcester City School Sport Partnership. Nick Seaton, chairman of the Campaign for Real Education, was unconvinced by the program's weight-loss merits, saying, "Pupils would be far better doing serious competitive sports and games than this sort of thing."

Channel 4 reports that this sort of thing has already been implemented in five schools in Worcestershire as "virtual PE," with the hopes that active gaming would lure children to participate in other physical exercise. Seaton, however, believes it "looks like another gimmick," one that's "pandering to the views of the physically idle." The Department of Health argued that the Wii makes for a good "first step" towards other forms of exercise, though failed to mention the benefits of the many, many steps required to excel in the physical strenuous Dance Dance Revolution: Hottest Party.

Mind you, the embarrassing view of the physical idol in school would likely result in even more nasty name calling.

[Via GamesIndustry.biz]

JoystiqCampaigner calls Wii exercise in schools 'another gimmick' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Jan 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ExerciseWiiWii-FitWii-SportsWiiFitWiiSportsMon, 28 Jan 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Canadian students compare Wii to traditional exercise]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/23/canadian-students-compare-wii-to-traditional-exercise/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/23/canadian-students-compare-wii-to-traditional-exercise/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/23/canadian-students-compare-wii-to-traditional-exercise/#commentsFiled under:


We've all worked up a sweat while playing the Wii, whether it be during sessions of WarioWare: Smooth Moves or Wii Sports (or any of the other numerous titles that ask you to get physical). We figured we were just unhealthy and that any normal person with any kind of regular physical activity in their life would just laugh as our doughy physique cried "mercy" after just minutes of throwing down in Wii Sports: Boxing.

Canadian students from Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia decided that they wanted to see how a workout with the Wii compares to more conventional exercises. These students could care less about scientific research apparently (or don't read Wii Fanboy, either of which being a crime against humanity), as took matters into their own hands and came up with an exercise scheme. Their conclusion, much like that of the scientists mentioned previously, was that although the Wii certainly did increase cardiovascular activity, it in no way was intense enough for them.

Hopefully, whenever Wii Fit releases, the Wii will be a more viable solution for serious health nuts. Until that day, we'll just keep having fun with our low impact sessions of Wii Sports.

[Thanks, gusto! Do you so happen to be an emcee?]

JoystiqCanadian students compare Wii to traditional exercise originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Jan 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boxingcanadaexerciseexergamingwiifitwiisportsWed, 23 Jan 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii serves over 5 million in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/23/wii-serves-over-5-million-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/23/wii-serves-over-5-million-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/23/wii-serves-over-5-million-in-japan/#commentsFiled under:


In little over 60 weeks, the Wii console has managed to sell over 5 million units in its home territory of Japan. As impressive as this is, it falls short of the DS, which achieved sales figures of this nature in 56 weeks. But, the Wii did manage to beat the PS2, which cracked the 5 million mark after 66 weeks on the market.

A system is only so good as its games though, right? Well, in Japan the games pushing the Wii are Wii Sports (2.6 million copies sold as of now), Wii Play (2.1 million copies sold as of now), Mario Party 8 ( 1.1 million copies sold as of now) and Wii Fit (1.1 million copies sold as of now). Super Mario Galaxy comes in fifth place in the country, only selling a total of 843,961 copies.

JoystiqWii serves over 5 million in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Jan 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanmarioparty8mp8salessalesfiguressupermariogalaxywiifitwiiplaywiisportsWed, 23 Jan 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[An accessory for the Balance Board you don't own yet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/15/an-accessory-for-the-balance-board-you-dont-own-yet/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/15/an-accessory-for-the-balance-board-you-dont-own-yet/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/15/an-accessory-for-the-balance-board-you-dont-own-yet/#commentsFiled under: , ,


And, just like the anti-slip pads, this one isn't all that useful. You see, it's a mat. Just a mat. For Wii Fit. A long piece of mat that goes below the Balance Board, undoubtedly to protect your knees from being burned by your carpeting or scraped by your tile floors. For those of you with other, more smooth and consistent flooring, we suggest you look elsewhere for something to put down under your Balance Board. Maybe one of your bath towels? Heck, that could probably work for all of you.

Head past the break for some more images.

Continue reading An accessory for the Balance Board you don't own yet

JoystiqAn accessory for the Balance Board you don't own yet originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jan 2008 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesjapanmatwiifitTue, 15 Jan 2008 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fit breaks a million sweats in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/wii-fit-breaks-a-million-sweats-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/wii-fit-breaks-a-million-sweats-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/wii-fit-breaks-a-million-sweats-in-japan/#commentsFiled under:


While we're not as shocked as Richie up there, we are surprised that Wii Fit has sold over a million in Japan. In little over a month, the bundle has managed to show many in Japan that it's to be taken seriously, and not the flash in the pan that some have come to think Wii Sports is. The real question is: did it inspire weight loss and healthy living for any of its adopters?

Any of our readers outside of Japan planning on picking this up when a release date is revealed?


[Via GamesIndustry.biz]

JoystiqWii Fit breaks a million sweats in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Jan 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japansalessalesfigureswii-fitwiifitWed, 09 Jan 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fit feels the burn, sells 1 million in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/wii-fit-feels-the-burn-sells-1-million-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/wii-fit-feels-the-burn-sells-1-million-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/wii-fit-feels-the-burn-sells-1-million-in-japan/#commentsFiled under: ,

wii fit
The Wii Fit exercise machine pressure pad has sold one million units in Japan since its Dec. 1 release. And just like the millions of gym memberships left hanging each year, we have to wonder just how many of these things have actually inspired weight loss.

Wii Fit still doesn't have a US or European release date yet (we're guessing Nintendo has to figure out how to support more than 300 lbs. first), but given Wii's broad demographic, once westernized, Wii Fit could easily become the system's must-have impulse buy - and the first 'game' to actually give us guilt trips.

[Via MCV]

Gallery: Wii Fit



Read - Nikkei Net (subscription required)

JoystiqWii Fit feels the burn, sells 1 million in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Jan 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>saleswii-fitwiifitWed, 09 Jan 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[An avalanche of Wii Fit videos [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/08/an-avalanche-of-wii-fit-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/08/an-avalanche-of-wii-fit-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/08/an-avalanche-of-wii-fit-videos/#commentsFiled under:


Game Informer put up a plethora of new videos, focusing on the many things one can do in the upcoming Wii Fit from Nintendo. Aside from the yoga and ski jumping going on, the title looks like it's going to have a lot of stuff to do. We're not sure it'll help us lose weight or be a more healthy person, but it's looking like we're going to at least have fun with the title. And, that's what's most important, after all.

Hit up past the break for videos. And, take note: all of the videos automatically start up, so be prepared for that.

Continue reading An avalanche of Wii Fit videos [update]

JoystiqAn avalanche of Wii Fit videos [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Jan 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balance-board-balanceboardexergamingnongamewii-fitwiifitTue, 08 Jan 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[British Medical Journal study: Wii Sports doesn't replace exercise]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/21/british-medical-study-wii-doesnt-replace-exercise/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/21/british-medical-study-wii-doesnt-replace-exercise/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/21/british-medical-study-wii-doesnt-replace-exercise/#commentsFiled under: ,


A British Medical Journal study finds UK gamers playing Wii only used 2% more energy than gamers of other consoles. Obviously the UK study needed the US version of WiiFit with Jackie Warner, she'll push them from 2% to 200% -- no crying. The BBC reports on the most "captain obvious" qualities of the report like "time spent in front of television and computer screens has been linked to physical inactivity and obesity." We'd like to point out that so has reading and eating.

The comprehensive study of -- wait, is this right? The comprehensive study of six boys and five girls between 13 and 15 years old found playing Wii Sports expended 60kcal per hour compared with other consoles. Two things we learn from this report: 1) Parents should tie a leash around their kid and stick 'em on a treadmill if they are too afraid to let them outside. 2) All the BBC reporters have left for holiday already and the interns have taken over the news division.

JoystiqBritish Medical Journal study: Wii Sports doesn't replace exercise originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Dec 2007 19:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>british-medical-journaljackie-warnerobesitywiiwiifitFri, 21 Dec 2007 19:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fit's yoga demonstrated by comfy person]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/wii-fits-yoga-demonstrated-by-comfy-person/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/wii-fits-yoga-demonstrated-by-comfy-person/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/wii-fits-yoga-demonstrated-by-comfy-person/#commentsFiled under: ,


WiiFolder's Josh Thomas is back again, playing Wii Fit on camera so we can all see what we're missing. And no, he still hasn't bothered to change out of his pajamas. Blogging in jammies is fairly standard procedure, but we think that, as a rule, videoblogging requires pants.

It could just be that Josh required comfy, roomy pajama pants for optimal Wii Fit stretching, we guess. It could also be that we've spent too much time talking about this dude's britches and we should start talking about Wii Fit now. Basically, in Wii Fit's yoga program, you're required to hold one of 15 poses to a pretty severe degree of precision (indicated by a dot inside a circle) for 30 seconds. It looks really damn hard. We anticipate busting our faces on the Balance Board within hours. Or getting an awesome workout.

[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqWii Fit's yoga demonstrated by comfy person originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Dec 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exergamingwii-fitwiifityogaThu, 20 Dec 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GT5 Prologue scores third place in Japanese charts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/gt5-prologue-scores-third-place-in-japanese-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/gt5-prologue-scores-third-place-in-japanese-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/gt5-prologue-scores-third-place-in-japanese-charts/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


You know times have changed when the top three spots in Japan's software sales chart are no longer occupied by traditional fare, but rather a miasma of Mario mini-games, a balancercise board and a glorified automotive demo. Gamasutra runs down last week's top ten, highlighting Polyphony Digital's Gran Turismo 5 Prologue which made its debut in third position with approximately 116,000 units sold. Professor Layton bully, Wii Fit, found itself parking off in second position with 124,000 units after having switched places with Mario Party DS and its 180,000 attendees.

Nintendo proved the overall wii-ner, with six first-party titles accounted for in the chart -- in fact, Gran Turismo 5 Prologue was the only game not to be found on the Wii or DS. The two systems are expected to enjoy continued good fortune in the hardware sales chart due for release tomorrow.

Gallery: Gran Turismo 5 Prologue

JoystiqGT5 Prologue scores third place in Japanese charts originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Dec 2007 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSGran-TurismoGran-Turismo-5GranTurismo5GT5Japanese-Software-SalesMario-Party-DSMarioPartyPolyphony-DigitalPolyphonyDigitalPS3WiiWii-FitWiiFitThu, 20 Dec 2007 15:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Anti-skid pads for your grandparents' Balance Board]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/17/anti-skid-pads-for-your-grandparents-balance-board/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/17/anti-skid-pads-for-your-grandparents-balance-board/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/17/anti-skid-pads-for-your-grandparents-balance-board/#commentsFiled under: ,


Just like at the bottom of her bathtub, she's now got some anti-slip pads she can toss down on her Balance Board. And, we know for certain that falling down while in the shower makes up over 67.629% of senior citizen mortalities* in the United States. Considering how popular the Wii is and how popular Wii Fit is (and is certain to be over here), this accessory is bound to save many lives.

*We only can be expected to research information regarding video games. Everything else we'll probably make up.

[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqAnti-skid pads for your grandparents' Balance Board originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Dec 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesbalance-boardjapanwii-fitwiifitMon, 17 Dec 2007 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Make like Pelé with Wii Fit soccer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/16/make-like-pele-with-wii-fit-soccer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/16/make-like-pele-with-wii-fit-soccer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/16/make-like-pele-with-wii-fit-soccer/#commentsFiled under: ,


Soccer is the world's most popular sport, and we can see why -- in what other sport do a line of hydrocephalitic kids take turns throwing balls, shoes, and panda heads at your dome piece? We're just happy that the soccer mini-game included in the Wii Fit bundle is faithful to the sport, panda head dodgery and all.

However, we are somewhat concerned about the terrible score of the player in this video -- is this another example of game previewers being bad at their own games? Or is the balance board not as accurate as some gameplay videos make it look? We'll just have to find out when the chubbiness informer comes stateside early next year.

JoystiqMake like Pelé with Wii Fit soccer originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 16 Dec 2007 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>NintendoNintendoWiiSoccerWiiWii-FitWii-SoccerWiiFitSun, 16 Dec 2007 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fit step, step, steps its way atop Japanese charts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/13/wii-fit-step-step-steps-its-way-atop-japanese-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/13/wii-fit-step-step-steps-its-way-atop-japanese-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/13/wii-fit-step-step-steps-its-way-atop-japanese-charts/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Brawn has finally triumphed over its nerdy nemesis brain, with Nintendo's balancercise board bullying Professor Layton away from the top spot in the Japanese software sales chart. In its second week, Wii Fit sold 150,000 units at retail, making for a grand total of approximately 411,000. Less easy to calculate: the amount of damage Japanese exergamers have incurred while knocking things over in their teeny tiny apartments.

Another notable entry in last week's chart is Hironobu Sakaguchi's post-Final Fantasy Xbox 360 epic, Lost Odyssey. It debuted in seventh position with 55,000, a number pointed out by Gamasutra to be over 25,000 less than Blue Dragon's opening week last year. Though the JRPG still fared much better than most Xbox 360 games (what with it actually breaking into the top ten), even Assassin's Creed managed a modest 41,000 units during its first week.

JoystiqWii Fit step, step, steps its way atop Japanese charts originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Dec 2007 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Lost-OdysseyLostOdysseySakaguchiWiiWii-FitWiiFitXbox-360Thu, 13 Dec 2007 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese hardware sales, Nov. 26 - Dec. 2: If the Wii fits edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/07/japanese-hardware-sales-nov-26-dec-2-if-the-wii-fits-editi/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/07/japanese-hardware-sales-nov-26-dec-2-if-the-wii-fits-editi/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/07/japanese-hardware-sales-nov-26-dec-2-if-the-wii-fits-editi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


As you may or may not have noticed, depending on your reading ability and tolerance for vaguely irrelevant yet alluringly foreign sales charts, the Nintendo Wii enjoyed a surge in Japanese retail popularity last week. If you're looking to blame something, be sure to point your gnarled index finger at Wii Fit. That's the balancercise board, mind you, not the phenomenon perceived by someone watching you play Wario Ware: Smooth Moves.

We can't comment on the quality of the product yet, but the illustrations on the box make it seem like the perfect toy for the posers among us.

- DS Lite: 124,591 7,897 (6.77%)
- Wii: 74,764 20,402 (37.53%)
- PSP: 74,626 401 (0.53%)
- PS3: 37,092 13,472 (26.64%)
- PS2: 13,703 1,172 (7.88%)
- Xbox 360: 6,632 485 (6.81%)
- DS Phat: 36 36 (N/A)
- Gamecube: 32 12 (27.27%)
- Game Boy Micro: 20 22 (52.38%)
- GBA SP: 9 22 (70.97%)
- GBA: 4 5 (55.56%)

[Source: Media Create]

See: The energetic archives

JoystiqJapanese hardware sales, Nov. 26 - Dec. 2: If the Wii fits edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Dec 2007 21:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSGameCubeJapanese-Hardware-SalesJapaneseHardwareSalesPS2PS3PSPWiiWiiFitXbox-360Fri, 07 Dec 2007 21:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Professor Layton spoils Wii Fit debut]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/06/professor-layton-spoils-wii-fit-debut/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/06/professor-layton-spoils-wii-fit-debut/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/06/professor-layton-spoils-wii-fit-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

wii fit
Even the allure of a balancing beam sim couldn't keep Japanese gamers from gobbling up another helping of brain benders carefully wrapped in an adorable adventure starring Professor Layton. Layton Kyouju to Akuma no Hako (call it 'Professor Layton and Pandora's Box'), the second installment in Level 5's self-published trilogy for DS, topped weekly Japanese software sales, selling an estimated 294,000 units in the face of Wii Fit -- not that Nintendo's latest outside-the-box concept didn't attract strong sales. Reports of long lines and retail sellouts have been confirmed by Wii Fit sales figures: an estimated 261,000 units, supporting a combined weight of nearly 40,000 tons.

Just below the top two earners, Namco Bandai's strategy game SD Gundam G Generation Spirits accounted for an estimated 252,000 copies in its first week proving PS2 still has legs, while Square Enix's Dragon Quest IV remake for DS continued another impressive week of sales with an estimated 135,000 units sold. The Xbox 360 version of Assassin's Creed even made an impression, moving a modest 41,000 units to become the eighth best-selling title of the week. Next week: Lost Odyssey takes a crack at the charts.

JoystiqProfessor Layton spoils Wii Fit debut originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Dec 2007 13:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSjapanlevel-5professor-laytonWiiwii-fitwiifitThu, 06 Dec 2007 13:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Hot Wii Fit unboxing action]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/hot-wii-fit-unboxing-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/hot-wii-fit-unboxing-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/hot-wii-fit-unboxing-action/#commentsFiled under:


Cheapy D over at CAG got his hands on one of the recently-released Wii Fit packages and did what any responsible gamer would do: filmed himself unpacking it. In opening the bad boy up, he reveals that the components are a lot smaller than we would have imagined. In all, though, it's a sweet video that should give all of you the look at the device you want and need.

[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqHot Wii Fit unboxing action originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Dec 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exergamingjapanunboxingwiifitMon, 03 Dec 2007 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fit stretches its legs today in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/30/wii-fit-stretches-its-legs-today-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/30/wii-fit-stretches-its-legs-today-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/30/wii-fit-stretches-its-legs-today-in-japan/#commentsFiled under: ,

While American gamers still have some more time to wait before making themselves into contorted, balance-challenged fools, Japanese Wii owners can now pick up a copy of Wii Fit and stretch their way to reportedly fitter lifestyles (although deviance has been proven to work).

The game's official street date isn't until tomorrow, but that isn't stopping a handful of prominent online retailers from already accepting orders (that surely won't arrive until after tomorrow). U.S. gamers who don't feel like dealing with the hassle of importing will have to wait until early 2008 for their copy of Wii Fit.

[Via Engadget, Wii News]

Read - Buy at Play-Asia
Read - Buy at Amazon Japan
Read - Buy at Success-HK

JoystiqWii Fit stretches its legs today in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Nov 2007 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asiabalance-boardjapannintendoWiiwii-balance-boardwii-fitwiifitFri, 30 Nov 2007 19:15:00 EST