Top Nintendo Wii Game Each Year Throughout the Console Era

Exploring the standout motion-controlled games that defined the Nintendo Wii's success over its lifespan.
Top Nintendo Wii Game Each Year Throughout the Console Era

Highlights

  • Innovation is key - the Nintendo Wii showcased how novel motion controls could revolutionize the gaming industry.
  • Game quality matters - the Wii's triumph stemmed not only from motion controls but also from a rich library of exceptional games.
  • Exclusive gems - from Wii Sports to Super Smash Bros. Brawl, the Wii boasted iconic titles that cemented its legacy.

Back in the mid-2000s, while the focus in gaming shifted towards HD consoles like the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, Nintendo took a different route with the groundbreaking Nintendo Wii, introducing revolutionary motion controls that reshaped the industry.

The Wii, despite its modest hardware capabilities, emerged as the top-selling console of its generation, surpassing 100 million units sold. Its success was not solely due to motion controls but also to a vast array of high-quality games released annually from 2006 to 2013, when it was eventually discontinued.

8 Wii Sports (2006)

Bringing Motion Controls to the Masses

One of Nintendo's stroke of genius during this era was bundling a game with every Wii, showcasing the console's motion controls in a fun and approachable manner. This game was Wii Sports, quickly becoming a beloved title on the platform.

Featuring five engaging mini-games like tennis, baseball, bowling, golf, and boxing, which ingeniously utilized motion controls, Wii Sports convinced the public that the Wii was a revolutionary gaming device. It became a household favorite, appealing even to non-gamers.

7 Super Mario Galaxy (2007)

A Masterpiece in Mario Platforming

Following a successful debut year, 2007 witnessed the launch of new installments in iconic Nintendo series such as Metroid Prime 3 and Fire Emblem: Radiant Dawn. However, it was Mario's Super Mario Galaxy that stood out as one of the Wii's best games, offering a captivating 3D platforming adventure.

Super Mario Galaxy took players on a space-themed journey with intricately designed levels, enjoyable power-ups, vibrant environments, and an enchanting soundtrack. The game's fluid motion controls added to the experience without detracting from the fun.

6 Super Smash Bros Brawl (2008)

Evolution of a Crossover Phenomenon

The Super Smash Bros. series, known for its captivating crossovers, has been a system-seller on every Nintendo platform. The Wii iteration, Super Smash Bros. Brawl released in 2008, continued this trend with the inclusion of iconic Nintendo characters and third-party fighters like Sonic the Hedgehog and Solid Snake.

Besides a vast character roster, Super Smash Bros. Brawl introduced the Subspace Emissary story mode, featuring boss battles and cinematic cut scenes interweaving characters' narratives. The game retained the beloved fighting mechanics, ensuring hours of fun for friends in local or online multiplayer settings.