The Next Level: Exercise is target of new game
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By Matthew Price
Published: April 18, 2008
While some may criticize video games for encouraging sloth, Nintendo is attempting to give gamers a chance to play while improving fitness.
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"Nintendo has really tried to reach out to a new gaming audience,” said Libe Goad, editor in chief at GameDaily, www.game daily.com. "They're reaching out to moms; they're reaching out to women ... people who aren't necessarily the hardcore gaming crowd.”
Wii Sports, which came packaged with the Nintendo Wii, encourages gamers to move around and play virtual sports. The upcoming Wii Fit takes it to yet another level.
The game, which has been a hit in Japan, is a workout program done via the Nintendo Wii. Wii Fit is set for a May 19 release in North America.
"I think Nintendo is reaching out to that other market, people who play Wii Sports and really got into that, will have a chance to really get fit while playing Nintendo Wii,” Goad said.
"Wii Fit” provides a workout regimen on the Nintendo Wii. PROVIDED BY NINTENDO
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Goad played the game in advance of the release, and said it's a good workout, but a fun one.
"I was actually kind of winded doing some yoga on the balance board, which comes with the game,” she said.
"We'll see what happens to the gaming waistlines over the next few months.”
The game is played using a Wii Balance Board, a platform that connects to the Wii and records the gamer's physical activity.
"It measures the pressure in your foot, and that's how it measures how well you're doing,” Goad said.
In addition to traditional exercises such as pushups, yoga and jogging, there are game-based workout activities.
Goad said the "Wii Sports” and "Wii Fit” exercise games will help Nintendo reach a totally different audience — and help the overall health of the industry.
"Financially speaking for the video game industry, that's how they're going to make more money,” Goad said.
•Next week: Goad talks to The Oklahoman about "Grand Theft Auto,” game ratings, and whether "GTA” will affect "Iron Man.”
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Related Topics:
Culture and Lifestyle, Health and Fitness, Hobbies and Pastimes, Games, Exercise and Fitness, Video Games, Working Out
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"Wii Fit” provides a workout regimen on the Nintendo Wii. PROVIDED BY NINTENDO
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