What Was the Last Wii Game? A Look Back at the End of an Era
The final curtain call for the Nintendo Wii came not with a bang, but with a quiet release of two indie titles: Retro City Rampage DX+ and Shakedown: Hawaii. Both games, developed by Vblank Entertainment, were launched on July 9, 2020, marking the end of an era for the once-revolutionary console. These were not the blockbuster releases that defined the Wii’s heyday, but rather a testament to the enduring appeal of the platform to independent developers long after Nintendo had moved on. Let’s delve deeper into what these games were and explore the wider context of the Wii’s lifecycle.
The Final Games: Retro City Rampage DX+ and Shakedown: Hawaii
These weren’t your typical Wii games. Instead of motion-controlled adventures or family-friendly party games, Retro City Rampage DX+ and Shakedown: Hawaii offered a retro-inspired, open-world experience.
Retro City Rampage DX+
This game is an 8-bit homage to classic Grand Theft Auto. Players navigate a pixelated world filled with wacky characters, ridiculous missions, and a healthy dose of humor. It was a vibrant send-off, showcasing the Wii’s ability to still deliver fun despite its age. Retro City Rampage DX+ is known for its retro graphics, expansive open world, and over-the-top gameplay. The game is a love letter to the golden age of video games, packed with pop culture references and a non-stop supply of chaotic action.
Shakedown: Hawaii
Shakedown: Hawaii is also an open-world action game, but with a more modern 16-bit aesthetic. It’s a sequel of sorts, but also a standalone game. Shakedown is still a retro game, but with a more polished feel than Retro City Rampage DX+. It focuses on building an empire through questionable business tactics and features a destructible environment. Its satirical take on corporate greed and fast-paced gameplay offer a unique experience that separates it from the majority of other Wii games.
The Wii’s Legacy
The launch of these two indie games in 2020 might seem like a small note in the annals of video game history, but they represent a crucial aspect of the Wii’s lifecycle. The Wii, released in 2006, was a groundbreaking console that redefined gaming with its motion controls and focus on accessibility. It attracted casual gamers who had never held a controller before, and its wide appeal made it a commercial juggernaut.
However, its popularity waned over time, with Nintendo eventually shifting its focus to the Wii U, and later the Switch. Yet, despite being “obsolete,” the Wii remained a viable platform for independent developers who found an audience that still enjoyed its unique appeal. The release of Retro City Rampage DX+ and Shakedown: Hawaii in 2020 demonstrates this enduring charm and the console’s ability to still deliver an enjoyable experience, even in its twilight years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Wii
Here are 15 frequently asked questions (FAQs) to give you more insight into the Nintendo Wii, its history, and its legacy:
1. When Was the Wii Originally Released?
The Nintendo Wii was initially released in North America on November 19, 2006, and in December 2006 for most other regions.
2. How Many Wii Games Were There?
There are approximately 1,640 games listed for the Wii, although this number can vary slightly based on different databases.
3. What Was the First Wii Game?
Wii Sports was the first game for the Wii, and it was bundled with the console in most regions (except Japan and South Korea).
4. Is the Wii Still Being Produced?
No, new Wii consoles are no longer being manufactured. Nintendo officially discontinued production in October 2013 (for the original model) and November 2017 (for the Wii Mini). However, the used market remains active.
5. What Happened to the Wii in 2023?
A false rumor emerged that Nintendo had announced all functioning Wiis would self-destruct in 2023. This is entirely untrue; the Wii continues to operate normally.
6. When Did the Wii Get Discontinued?
The original Wii and Wii Family Edition were discontinued on October 21, 2013, with the Wii Mini being discontinued on November 13, 2017.
7. How Many Wii Units Were Sold?
The Wii sold over 101 million units worldwide, making it Nintendo’s second-highest-selling home console, after the Switch.
8. What Replaced the Wii?
The Nintendo Wii U was released as the successor to the Wii.
9. Why Was the Wii U Considered a Failure?
The Wii U struggled with a lack of compelling games, significant droughts between releases, and an unfulfilled price advantage. It also lacked crucial third-party support.
10. How Much is a Used Wii Worth?
The price of a used Wii varies based on condition and included accessories, but they are generally readily available on the used market for reasonable prices. Prices can fluctuate, but they tend to be under $100, although prices for the compatible GameCube versions are higher.
11. What Was the Last GameCube Game?
The last official GameCube game release was Madden NFL 08, on August 14, 2007.
12. Can Wii Play GameCube Games?
Some original Wii models are backward compatible and can play GameCube games. However, not all Wii systems have this compatibility.
13. Why Are Wii Games So Expensive?
Wii game prices have increased due to several reasons: limited production runs, titles that got small printings, and the increased demand by collectors and retro gamers.
14. Is Online Play Still Supported on the Wii?
The online services for the Wii were discontinued in 2014. However, online play on the Wii had been limited for some time, even before it was officially shut down.
15. Why was the Wii So Popular?
The Wii became popular for its innovative motion controls, casual-friendly appeal, and family-oriented games. It attracted a broad audience beyond traditional gamers.
Conclusion
The Wii’s story is one of innovation and mass appeal. While the console is no longer in production and lacks online services, its final games, Retro City Rampage DX+ and Shakedown: Hawaii, represent a testament to its enduring appeal. The Wii continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many gamers, and its influence on the industry remains palpable. Its legacy as a console that made gaming accessible to millions lives on, even as it fades into the retro gaming landscape.