Wii Motion Plus vs. Wii Remote Plus: Decoding Nintendo’s Motion Control Mayhem
You are diving back into the Wii world. Dust off your console. Get ready to swing virtual tennis rackets or face Hyrule’s perils again. But wait! You look at your Wii Remotes. A question pops up: “What is the difference between Wii Motion Plus and Wii Remote Plus?”
Fear not, gamer! We will unravel the motion-sensing mystery. Let’s break down these motion control gizmos and return you to gaming glory.
Wii Motion Plus: The Add-On Enigma
First, we have the Wii Motion Plus. Think of this as an accessory. It plugs into your standard Wii Remote. Its mission is to boost the motion-sensing powers of your trusty white wand.
- Functionality: Enhanced motion detection. Your Wii Remote becomes super sensitive to movements.
- Compatibility: This is an add-on. You need a regular Wii Remote to use it. It’s like needing a sidecar for a motorcycle.
- Game Time: Certain games take advantage of this enhanced motion control. Think precision games, like The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword.
- Size Matters: It adds some bulk to your Wii Remote. You will notice the extra length.
- Battery Blues: Some say it drains batteries a bit faster. Keep those AAs handy!
Wii Remote Plus: The All-in-One Wonder
Now, enter the Wii Remote Plus. This is the sleek, all-inclusive version. It has the Wii Motion Plus technology built inside. No attachments, no fuss, just pure motion-sensing goodness.
- Functionality: Just like the add-on, it provides super-accurate motion sensing. The same tech is integrated.
- Compatibility: It’s a standalone controller. Ready to roll with any Wii games that support Motion Plus.
- Game Time Again: Yes, games that love enhanced control, like The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword, shine with this controller.
- Size and Comfort: A big win! It’s the same size as the original Wii Remote. No added bulk, feels familiar. Comfort matters!
- Battery Life: Battery life is similar to the original Wii Remote. No sneaky battery drain here.
The Nitty-Gritty Differences: Beyond the Basics
Both do motion sensing, but what sets them apart in real-world use?
- Size and Comfort: We mentioned this before. The Wii Remote Plus is more streamlined, comfortable as it is all one piece.
- Precision: Some gamers say the Wii Remote Plus offers a hair more precise control than the original with Motion Plus attached. Not a game-changer for everyone, but hardcore players might appreciate it.
Spotting the Difference: Become a Wii Remote Detective
Okay, let’s get practical. How do you tell these Wii Remotes apart when rummaging through your stash?
Identifying the Wii Remote Plus: Clues to Look For
- The “Secret” Text: Look below the Wii logo on the controller. If it says “Wii MotionPlus INSIDE,” you’ve got a Wii Remote Plus. A badge of honor for enhanced motion.
- Model Number Magic: Flip it over and check the model number: RVL-036. Remember that number; it’s key to identification.
Unmasking the Original Wii Remote: What to Watch Out For
- Missing Text Alert: No “Wii MotionPlus INSIDE” below the Wii logo? That’s your first clue. It’s likely an original Wii Remote.
- Model Number Reveal: Check the back for RVL-003. Simple!
Sensor Bar Shenanigans: Motion Plus Doesn’t Mean Sensor Bar Vanished
Let’s clear up confusion. Does having Wii Motion Plus mean you ditch the sensor bar? Sadly, no, not always.
- Sensor Bar Still Needed for IR: While Motion Plus enhances tracking, it doesn’t remove the need for the sensor bar in IR games.
- Pointing and Precision Games: Games that need screen-pointing still want the sensor bar. Motion Plus improves controls, but it’s not magic.
- Button-Mashers Rejoice! Games that focus on button controls don’t need the sensor bar, even with a Motion Plus controller.
Games That Crave Wii Motion Plus: A Must-Have for Certain Titles
Some games aren’t just enhanced by Motion Plus; they almost require it! Ensure you have either the Motion Plus attachment or a Wii Remote Plus for these.
- Wii Sports Resort: The Poster Child:Wii Sports Resort requires the accessory or Wii Remote Plus to play. No Motion Plus, no island fun. Note: The game didn’t include Motion Plus; you bought it separately.
- Games That Need Motion Plus: Besides Wii Sports Resort, other games designed for or benefiting from Motion Plus include:
- Wii Sports Club
- Wii Fit Plus
- The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword
- Red Steel 2
- Grand Slam Tennis
- Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10
Sensor Bar Alternatives: When You’re in a Pinch
Lost your sensor bar? Fear not! There are quirky (and slightly risky) alternatives.
- Candlelight Capers: Believe it or not, Wii Remote detects infrared light. Candles emit infrared light. A couple of candles can act as a makeshift sensor bar, but use caution with flames!
The Dolphin Bar: Wii on PC? Yes, Please!
Want to use your Wii Remotes with PC? Enter the Dolphin Bar.
- PC Gaming with Wii Remotes: The Dolphin Bar connects your Wii Remotes and accessories to your PC. It enables Wii emulation and even motion control in PC games.
You are now equipped! The Wii Motion Plus vs. Wii Remote Plus showdown is complete. Navigate the world of Wii motion controls confidently. Now grab your remote of choice and get your game on!
