Wii for Christmas - what do I need?

[fatsatsuma]

Considering one for our 3 DC's, aged 13, 11 and 3. We are a fairly low-tech household, and having googled, I don't know where to start with extra components, games etc.

Please can someone suggest a basic package which would keep them happy. I know DD1 is keen on some kind of dance game, but what else?

And most importantly what should I expect to spend?

Check whichever deal you go for. Usually there is only one control and one nunchuck included.

I bought wheels and light sabres but they have never been used.

Have a look for games on ebay and shops that sell second hand. The most used ones here is the lego starwars one.

You need:

Wii console x1
Wii controller x2 (minimum)
Nunchuck x2 (minimum)
Docking station for recharging for controller
Games. Usually Wii Sports comes with the console. Others come with different deals.

Perhaps go into Comet if you have one there and talk to one of the advisers. I usually find their staff to be really good.

Ask kids which games interest them.

Look on the net for the cheapest way to get whatever you decide on.

We don't really use the nunchucks much, look for some second hand. Second hand games in places like Gamestation can cost as much as new games from Play or amazon!

If you have a battery charger you won't need a docking station.

True. Controllers can be powered by two AA batteries, or the specific battery pack which has to be charged via a docking station.

I did try the rechargeable AA batteries but found they didn't last long. But they may well have been knackered by the Thomas trains they were first used in.

And if you order from Play.com then expect delivery to be up to two weeks outside of xmas time i.e. March when birthday presents arrived after the sodding birthday. God knows how long it takes during xmas shopping period.

Thomas trains are a killer!!

2 duracell lasts us about 5 weeks. Not too bad. That was with couple hours playing each day.

I find amazon best place for games. And secondhand through marketplace.

Especially when they are turned on somewhere and all you can hear is that awful whirring but you can't find it!

Sorry, going off thread with awful memories