Wii Collector's Buying Guide

Introduction

The Nintendo Wii, with its motion controls and family-friendly appeal, became a cultural phenomenon. For collectors, it offers a treasure trove of unique experiences. But with a vast library, knowing what to seek out can be daunting. This guide highlights key titles that every collector should consider, from iconic adventures to overlooked gems.

Nintendo's Finest

No Wii collection is complete without Nintendo's own masterpieces. These games showcase the console's potential and remain highly sought after.

• The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess (2006) – A darker, epic entry in the Zelda series, featuring a mature Link and a sprawling Hyrule. Its immersive story and dungeon design make it a cornerstone of any collection.
• Metroid Prime 3: Corruption (2007) – The final chapter of the Prime trilogy, this first-person adventure uses the Wii Remote's pointer controls to perfection, delivering intense combat and exploration. A must-have for sci-fi fans.
• Link's Crossbow Training (2007) – A budget-priced shooter that came bundled with the Wii Zapper. Despite its simplicity, it's a fun, arcade-style experience that's surprisingly collectible, especially with its original packaging.

Third-Party Standouts

The Wii wasn't just for Nintendo. Several third-party titles pushed the hardware and offered unique experiences.

• GoldenEye 007 (2010) – A reimagining of the classic N64 shooter, this modernized version features Daniel Craig's Bond and tight, motion-controlled aiming. It's a multiplayer favorite and a great addition for FPS enthusiasts.
• Red Steel 2 (2010) – A stylish first-person sword-fighting game that fully utilizes Wii MotionPlus. Its cel-shaded visuals and fluid combat make it a standout action title, and its relative scarcity adds to its collectibility.
• The Conduit (2009) – A sci-fi FPS developed by High Voltage Software, known for its impressive graphics and customizable controls. It's a solid shooter that proves the Wii could handle mature, fast-paced action.

Hidden Gems and Curiosities

Beyond the big names, the Wii has a wealth of underappreciated titles that offer quirky or unique experiences.

• Deadly Creatures (2009) – A third-person adventure where you play as a scorpion and a tarantula. Its unconventional premise and dark atmosphere make it a fascinating collector's item.
• Tournament of Legends (2010) – A gladiatorial combat game with a mythological twist. While it received mixed reviews, its niche appeal and limited release make it a rare find for collectors seeking oddities.
• Dragon's Lair Trilogy (2010) – A compilation of the classic animated interactive movies. It's a nostalgic trip for retro gamers and a unique piece of gaming history, though it requires patience for its trial-and-error gameplay.
• Metroid: Other M (2010) – A divisive entry that blends third-person action with first-person missiles. Despite its controversial story, it's a visually striking and ambitious title that many collectors seek to complete their Metroid set.

Collecting Tips

When building your Wii collection, consider these practical tips:

• Check for completeness: Look for games with their original case, manual, and any inserts. Complete-in-box (CIB) copies are more valuable.
• Be aware of reprints: Some titles like Twilight Princess had multiple print runs. 'Nintendo Selects' versions are cheaper but less desirable to some collectors.
• Explore local stores and online marketplaces: You can find great deals at thrift stores, garage sales, and online auctions. Patience is key.
• Protect your games: Use plastic sleeves for cases and keep discs in a cool, dry place to prevent damage.

Conclusion

The Wii's library is diverse, offering everything from epic adventures to quirky experiments. By focusing on quality titles like those listed above, you can build a collection that is both enjoyable and valuable. Happy hunting!