As for the Wii and the motion control – I simply don’t get into or even like the whole “get off your butt to play a game” idea. It defeats the purpose of gaming.
If you want to bowl, then go to the bowling center and do it. Real bowling is about physical control of the (heavy) ball and comradery with those you bowl with. It requires core balance, walking, grip, upper body stability and motion, co-ordination, and more.
If you want exercise, then you certainly won’t get much from the Wii, and you’re better off getting a home gym. My multi-station has a squat rack, pull-down station, bench, and calf station. With over 600 lbs of iron spread across two plate trees, it’s more than enough for some serious exercise. For cardio, use your bike or cut the grass.
Playing a game is like watching a movie, it’s a time to relax after you have done all of the real work or exercise, daily chores, etc. I just don’t buy into the whole Wii Fit business, and any game that wants me to flop around like an electrocuted catfish on my couch is not my kind of game.
True games are about eye and hand coordination, strategy, timing, etc. It’s about working your mind, and sharpening eye-to-hand coordination – all while you escape the real world.
True exercise is about walking away from the couch and hitting the iron or the yard. Do your bench, your bent-rows, your squats, and military presses…..hit the shower…..then RELAX with a good game.
Some would argue that Wii Fit is better than nothing for over-weight or inactive kids…..uh NO. It’s not. Wii is a treat. A toy. Kids need to do the yard work and exercises, then homework, before they get that treat. It’s not a replacement….it’s a treat for after you have done everything else.
What I’m saying is, don’t buy that crap that the Wii is the better choice because it requires you to be physically active. The “activity” it requires is minimal and based on a couple of transducers in the controller you hold. They are limited in range of motion and can be tricked with a flick of the wrist – you don’t need to make those wild flailing movements to trigger the motion sensor! Just flick your wrist and your done.
Saying the Wii is better for health reasons is like saying Light Cigarettes are better. Think about it.
Just my .02