The Nintendo Wii has become a great way for families to spend time together. You can choose games that require mental or physical skill. Set aside a certain day every week to be family game night, and play some of the best family games for Wii. Since every family is different, your favorite games may be different from your neighbor’s, but certain things are universal.

Benefits

The Wii has games that fit with different age ranges, so there’s certain to be something that you can play with your family. Unlike other gaming systems, which require you to sit around, the Wii is more active–you use the Wiimote as a tennis racket, a sword or a jump rope. Best of all, kids really like it, so it gives your family a chance to bond without any moaning and groaning about how uncool it is to spend time with your family.

Features

The best Wii family games are the ones that are age-appropriate for your children. For example, most everyone can enjoy the Wii Sports game that comes with the system. Younger children, however, may not be able to handle the mental challenge of Big Brain Academy, while older children may quickly get bored with the games in Wii Play. Additionally, you should look for games that allow several players at once, so that no one has to wait too long for a turn.

Types

Both Wii Sports and Wii Fit are family favorites that encourage your children to be more active. If your kids are at the age where gross things make them happy, try the Rayman Raving Rabbids or WarioWare. Mario Party 8 or Super Monkey Ball can also challenge people of all ages.

Considerations

Wii Fit doesn’t allow children under 3 to play with their on Mii character. Young children may get easily frustrated if they cannot successfully perform the actions required of them. If your children are under 5, look for games that are specific to this age group.

Tips

The cost of buying new games can quickly add up, especially if your family gets bored quickly. Nintendo recently lowered their prices on several classic games including Wii Sports, The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, Mario Super Sluggers and Animal Crossing: City Folk.

Photo Credit

• happy kids image by Marzanna Syncerz from Fotolia.com