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Go Back   Cheap Ass Gamer > Community Lists > Wii Retrospect 2007: The First Full Year

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Wii Retrospect 2007: The First Full Year

Posted by Billytwoshoes.
Links to other lists:

Wii Retrospect 2006
Wii Retrospect 2008
Wii Retrospect 2009
Wii Retrospect 2010
Wii Retrospect 2011
Wii Retrospect 2012+

In my continuing saga to chronicle every year of the Wii, this edition focuses on 2007, which is quite arguably one of the best years for the system. We saw quite a mixture of genres as usual (RPGs are sorely lacking besides Fire Emblem (and Paper Mario, to an extent), however), but what was unusual was the plethora of fighting games this year that ranged from decent to great. We also saw a few excellent ports from the previous PS2 / Xbox / GCN generation (RE4 instantly comes to mind), taking advantage of the newfound user base, and used the new Wii input methods well. It was still hard to get a Wii in 2007, which became even harder after awesome titles like Metroid Prime 3 and Super Mario Galaxy garnered critical acclaim.

Also worth noting is that WiiWare was yet to launch, so for digital content all that was available were the VC titles (which won't be mentioned in these lists). The service was not realized until 2008, so for obvious reasons I won't be including any digital releases.

I limited this list to 30 titles, as I felt it was a good enough number to include some niche titles (a top 20 list would be sort of boring and predictable), while avoiding too much average clutter. As always, I put these games in chronological order, with my personal experience with the game and series as a whole. Please feel free to add in your personal favorites not mentioned in the comments below.

Wii newcomers and backloggers alike, here is the list for 2007:
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Release Date: January 15th, 2007; Played?: No (might get it someday)
Still technically in the launch window, Nintendo offered two first party titles for new Wii owners to spend their Christmas gift cards / cash on, both being the first two on this list. With WarioWare: Smooth Moves, the transition from the small screen to the TV was a good enough reason to buy for those invested in the series' past, while newcomers saw the brilliant chaos that was the micro-game format for the first time. Still a great party game today as it was when released, Smooth Moves would really benefit being re-released as a Nintendo Selects title in the US (especially to promote the upcoming Game and Wario on Wii U), let's hope NoA is thinking the same thing.
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Release Date: February 12th, 2007; Played?: Yes
Better known as 'the game that came with the second Wii remote', Nintendo wisely included this in a bundle to not only help promote sales, but also to further elaborate on the unique functions of the controller. Considered dated and boring by some, I would still recommend looking out for it today, especially if you need the extra remote, as bundles can go as low as $10-20 new on clearance. The Tank game itself is worthy of the purchase, providing a fun single and multiplayer experience. Also, Find Mii is ten times more enjoyable if you have a large list of created Miis (like my wife and I did, no family member was safe...).
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Release Date: February 27th, 2007; Played?: No (I have played the PS2 versions though)
The closest thing you are going to get to 1080 Snowboarding on the Wii (besides the original on VC, of course), and one of only a few options available to those addicted to the snow sport. Falling in the 'Good, but not Great' category, the dirt cheap price you can get it for now is worth the cost, just be prepared for some slightly wonky controls (this is still a launch window title, after all).
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Release Date: March 20th, 2007; Played?: No
Arguably the best version available, this GTA clone offers a unique experience for Wii owners, and back when initially released, did a great job of filling in the gap in the earlier part of the year, which was quite barren after the initial launch games. One of the first 'hardcore' games available for the system, it was certainly something more manly to show off to your friends besides the more family friendly selections the Wii was already getting a reputation for. Also for fans of the movies, this does feature many of the original voice actors (with some notable omissions), should that be a concern.
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$17.69 from Amazon Prices
Release Date: April 9th, 2007; Played?: No (In the backlog)
I wonder how many new Wii owners, those decidedly marked 'causal' buyers, who haven't touched a home console since the NES / SNES days, bought this thinking it was a straight up 2D platformer? While it does eschew many RPG gameplay components of the past Paper series, enough elements were retained to still keep that RPG feeling, all the while introducing plenty of puzzles to make good use of your extended cast, as well as your Pixl powers. I've also heard that this game retains much of the same humor from its predecessors, which was one of my favorite non-game aspects of PM: TTYD. Now that it is a Selects title, I don't have to worry about the price increasing any time soon, another plus in my book.
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Release Date: May 28th, 2007; Played?: No
Another crime based action port to the Wii that also focuses on the sandbox GTA style, that is also adapted from an iconic movie. In my opinion it would come down to which of the classics you prefer to emulate in your game playing sessions, though note that Al Pacino is only represented in form, not voice. The 'balls' action system, where it encourages you to perform gutsy moves, precision shots, and taunting, does seem interesting enough to give it a go. The only real downer in this recommendation is that the Wii-make doesn't really offer much new content, meaning the PS2 version is the better platform to choose, especially since it's significantly cheaper (this is CAG, after all).
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Release Date: May 29th, 2007; Played?: Yes
After things were getting a little tired for the series (four different CGN releases in as many years), there was a lot riding on the fresh interface provided by the new platform. While most of the mini games were fun, making simple yet effective use of the Wii Remote, the game boards themselves took a turn for the worse. While by no means bad, the overly simplistic layouts (one of the boards is just a straight line that loops, for example) leaves little room for strategy and planning, and with the random bonus stars given out at the end, it tilts the scales too far over into the luck category for my tastes. All things stated, it's still a great party game, noting it as the first (and last) true competitive Mario Party game released for the Wii (MP9 has more of a co-op flavor, in-case you are wondering).
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Release Date: May 29th, 2007; Played?: No (played the originals in the arcades)
In today's market it seems more of a guilty pleasure than a top-tier fighting franchise, but the Mortal Kombat legacy came to a nice high point with the Armageddon release for the Xbox and PS2 in 2006, with the Wii port a year later to take advantage of the new user base. With over 60 available fighters from the series' history, single player quest mode, character creator, and neat extras (such as the kart racer Motor Kombat), it's not only the best choice for MK lovers on the Wii, it also the only choice, with the latest installments released strictly on the HD consoles. Since the original Xbox / PS2 online multiplayer is now disabled, the Wii version, with some additional content and optional motion controls, seems to be the best choice. The only downside is that you can get the other versions for cheaper, as well as the Mortal Kombat Kollection for PS2 for about the same price, so take that as you will CAGs.
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Release Date: June 11th, 2007; Played?: Yes
Another DS to Wii conversion game, with less emphasis on skill and more so on thinking, the Wii version fits perfectly with its point and click IR control interface. While nothing more than a score chasing game for the single player experience, this game truly shines in its multiplayer accessibility, with up to 8 players at once, with Mii support linking your progress for each player. Unfairly priced as a AAA title upon release, it has since now come down considerably, as for the amount of content it has (which isn't much), it should of been a budget title from the very start. The Brain Quiz multiplayer mode, in which players take turns selecting between various categories, Jeopardy style, is still played from time to time in my household today, and is worthy of a purchase in itself.
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Release Date: June 19th, 2007; Played?: No (It's true, commence the flogging if you will)
Unlike the other ports on this list, offering either marginal improvements or minor additional content, the RE4: Wii Edition is greatly enhanced by the Wii controller interface, so much so that many consider this to be the Wii GOTY for 2007 (even over a certain Italian plumber's offerings). It's ironic that in starting out as a GCN exclusive, it became the most popular Resident Evil game for two other consoles, and due to its new play mechanic, started a trend that all proceeding titles adopted. While I still liked RE1-3's tank controls, you can't argue with the universal acclaim received by the gaming populace. Not only is the Wii version the best on offer, it is also incredibly cheap new or used, so there is no excuse for those on the fence about it.
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Release Date: June 25th, 2007; Played?: No
Due to the game's subject matter, I can only assume a select few are actually reading this, and that's ok. Games are not meant to appeal to everyone, so for those of you that haven't read the books or watched the movies (I'm one of those individuals), I understand your lack of interest. For those that do love the series, this game offered a turning point in the licensed games, as not only did they switch from the more illustrated look to the movie depiction, but also changed the gameplay mechanics to a more mission-based exploration format. While calling the game a Bully-esqe package in Hogwarts wouldn't be too far fetched, it focuses more on character interaction than it does on straight up action, so take that as you will. I've also heard it can get repetitive at times, but the idea of using your Wii remote as a wand for spell casting does sound fun for those invested in the series.
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$24.90 from Play-Asia Prices
Release Date: July 30th, 2007; Played?: Yes (once or twice at a friend's house)
When I think of soccer video games, my mind races back to the NES's Nintendo World Cup Soccer days, which took the sport into an action / arcade mode, which I feel works best for video game adaptations. Having not played the original GCN Striker's game, the Wii sequel still felt familiar to me the instant I started playing, which is the best feature of any multiplayer game in my opinion. With a fully customizable team, plenty of classic Nintendo characters to choose from, and online gameplay, in many ways it can be called the Smash Bros of the sports world. As others on this list, the Nintendo Selects status of this game makes the cost of entry even more attractive to boot.
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Release Date: August 27th, 2007; Played?: No (I will someday, recent backlog purchase)
Coming off the incredible momentum of both the two prior outings, there was certainly a lot of interest in the Wii sequel of Retro Studio's golden goose series. The GCN Prime's had a quirky control system that had to rely on a single analog stick for both movement and aiming, since both the D-pad and second analog stick were used for various on-the-fly visor and weapon switching. True first person aiming was realized with the end of the Prime trilogy, and was proven favorable enough by the gaming audience to warrant a re-release of the GCN Primes and this game into a single awesome package (I think we all know about this one). Barring you have a horseshoe shoved up some cavity of yours and you happen to find the Trilogy cheap enough (and in good condition), the next best thing is to seek out this now very affordable title, as used copies can easily be found for under $10.
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Release Date: October 3rd, 2007; Played?: No
Out of all the Wii Sports games, in my opinion, the Baseball game was certainly the most lacking, offering little incentive to play more than a few times with friends. Enter MLB Power Pros, which not only capitalized on this deficit for the baseball nut, but also kept it cute enough to appeal to the casual masses. Though sports games in general are typically low on my interest level, I can at least know a decent game when I see it, also the general internet praise had me pointing in the right direction for a recommendation.
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Release Date: October 16th, 2007; Played?: Yes
From the overly simplistic cover art to the cheesy (and dated) title screen, this game just screams 'shovelware'. Actually a PSP port, this game stands besides RE4 as making the best use of the new control interface of the Wii, with tilting the Wii remote to guide a glob of mercury around 150+ stages. For those that remember the old wooden labryinth games, the digital equivalent in Marble Madness, or more recently Super Monkey Ball, you know what this game is all about and would probably be enough to convince you to buy it. Dig deep in your bargain bins at your local B&M stores, and you will more than likely find this game littered unfairly with the trash of the current generation, give it a good home now.
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Release Date: October 16th, 2007; Played?: No
Probably one of the more traditional yet-niche 2D fighting series on the Wii (or any system for that matter), GG XX Accent Core should be at the top of the list for fans of the genre. Focusing on the more traditional multi-hit combo and aerial juggling fight system, along with hand-drawn animation, anyone who grew up with Street Fighter II will find a lot to like here. Lightweights shouldn't be discouraged from picking this up to give it a whirl, as the speed and learning curve is gentle enough for newbies. Also worth mentioning is the fact that Accent Core is significantly cheaper than the later released Plus variant, so seeking out this copy shouldn't set you back too much green.
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Release Date: October 23rd, 2007; Played?: No
Yet another fighting game in this list, if you are a fan of the anime you have probably played at least one of the entries on the Wii platform already. Being reviewed quite well between the devout and the newcomers alike, the biggest draw to me is the four player free-for-all battles, which is about as close as gamers got to Smash Bros in 2007. Out of all the Naruto games for the Wii, this is also one of the cheapest, though right now most of the games in the series can be had for about $5 with little effort.
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Release Date: October 23rd, 2007; Played?: Yes
When the topic of underrated Wii games comes up, this is by far the most commonly referenced title. When so many people bring it up for discussion, can you really call it underrated anymore? Harkening back to the good old Adventure days, where a point and click interface was the norm in the late 80's / early 90's (thank you Sierra and Lucas Arts for my earliest PC memories!), Z&W showed new gamers that this genre was still relevant today. Rather than a single sprawling adventure, where items you pick up carry over into a grand quest spanning multiple areas, this game breaks down the puzzle solving action into decisive mission based levels, integrating intuitive (yet sometimes frustrating) remote gestures in the process. Unfortunately for Capcom, the sales figures were underwhelming, so while we can't look forward to a sequel, at least the used price has stayed very affordable.
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Release Date: October 28th, 2007; Played?: No (Earlier GHs, Yes)
While today GH is certainly old news, with GH3 being the first game of its type on the Wii, it was at the top of the list for many casual and core gamers alike for the holiday season in 2007. The Wii version also offered a built-in solution by attaching the Wii remotes as a natural controller extension, which meant that you no longer had to worry about wires, but also didn't have to be concerned with yet another battery draining device. As with any rhythm genre game, if you don't mind the older song sets, this is the cheapest way to be introduced (or reintroduced) to the musical / gaming fad.
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Release Date: October 29th, 2007; Played?: No (I might someday)
If there is any genre that is lacking on the Wii, or any home console for that matter, it is RTS. While this is more of a blend between third person shooter and RTS, it's the closest to tactical warfare Wii gamers got in 2007 (mostly true even today), expanding on the original GCN game (which in turn was based off the original portable Advance Wars series) by adding air and sea battles to the usual ground mix. If any Nintendo franchise deserves to be upgraded with the Wii U, it's this one, especially with the gamepad touch interface controller. Overhead map on the gamepad for unit management, with 3rd person action on the big screen, hopefully Nintendo is on the same thought pattern. As for pricing on this game, you can find it new for around $10 relatively easy, another cheap yet good game to add to your collection.
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$19.21 from Amazon Prices
Release Date: November 6th, 2007; Played?: No (Partially played Lego SWII though)
The Lego franchise really has done an invaluable service to the gaming populace, providing not only a great game for the seasoned veteran, but also lenient enough to encourage newcomers as well, being the perfect husband / wife or father / son / daughter gaming experience. The Lego series are also excellent fan service games, which is why I personally would recommend this game, as I am at heart still a Star Wars nerd (though I have been dormant as of late). Unless there is a re-release of this game on the Wii U or other future consoles, I would suggest picking this up now if you haven't tried a game from the series (I should really take my own advice on this).
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Release Date: November 11th, 2007; Played?: Yes
The Fire Emblem series has hardly received the exposure it deserves in the US, while games with similar tactical-RPG formats garner more attention, such as Final Fantasy Tactics (and to a lesser extent Ogre Battle / Tactics Ogre). Growing up with a Genesis, I was always wondering why games like Shining Force weren't coming out for Nintendo systems, when in reality they were, just several thousand miles away. Decidedly hardcore for not only its niche genre, but also for its difficulty (each of your units only lives once, no phoenix down or raise of any kind after death), translated to poor sales, and those that have a copy are not willing to part with it for cheap. Finally manned up and bought a used copy for $32, which is pretty good nowadays...
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$18.63 from Amazon Prices
Release Date: November 12th, 2007; Played?: Yes
When a new Nintendo console comes out, the most hotly anticipated game is always 'The' Mario game. While SPM pleased some, for many it was Galaxy for which they purchased the Wii, and it surely did not disappoint. A true definition of a modern day classic, taking the 3D mario series in another direction, focusing on gravity bending manipulation to the standard platform affair, while adding one of the best orchestral soundtracks to date. Rightly included as a Nintendo Selects title, it's another cheap game that should be #1 on the must buy list for newcomers to the platform. On a side note, whoever decided to release SMG one day after Fire Emblem really wasn't thinking straight, overshadowing poor FE...
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Release Date: November 13th, 2007; Played?: No (played the sequel though)
Branching off from the disappointing 'Survivor' series spin off, with the Wii remote's IR sensor feature, the potential was fully realized, in what resulted in a on-rails zombie apocalypse shooter. More than just a mere House of the Dead knockoff, this game goes into the back story of the select Resident Evil games, providing fan service and re-imagining of past stories, with some light third person combat and events included for good measure. While you do have to unlock it, the two player mission mode will provide some lasting enjoyment, along with the standard score chasing ranking included. As with most games on this list, it is also very inexpensive, so RE fans should definitely give it a go.
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Release Date: November 20th, 2007; Played?: Yes
Sega had a rocky start on the Wii in 2007, with other notable releases, Sonic and the Secret Rings, as well as Nights Journey of Dreams, being mediocre games that failed to gain much traction with gamers (I was tempted to put Nights on this list though). With Ghost Squad, however, porting the arcade experience to the Wii interface, a truly underrated gem was crafted, one that fans of the genre should be on the lookout for today. Growing up with Virtua Cop, Time Crisis and the like, I know exactly what to expect here. What is the most compelling feature to me, aside from the standard mission direction choices, hidden objects and online leaderboards, is the four player party mode, which takes on several missions with (you guessed it) four people playing, shooting terrorists (and hostages :3) simultaneously. Did I mention the games on this list are generally dirt cheap as well?
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Release Date: November 20th, 2007; Played?: Yes
Nintendo's answer to the new IR interface was to release the Wii Zapper, for the most realistic first person shooting experience ever (?). While I doubt anyone would actually make that claim, the peripheral isn't too shabby, and came with a decent game to boot. While on it's own its a short and shallow experience (almost an extension of the Wii Play's shooting gallery mode), two main facts draw attention on this list. First off, it follows the look and settings of Twilight Princess, with typical high Nintendo polish, to which fans of the Hylian would want to check out for simple nostalgia's sake. Second, it's very possible to find this game for only a buck (without the Zapper, of course), so in terms of cost to fun ratio, it's a good buy.
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Release Date: November 20th, 2007; Played?: Yes
November 20th was sure a busy day (three games on this list from that date), I'm sure it had nothing to do with Black Friday coming a few days later, right? The last pure surgery game on the Wii in the Trauma Center series, and the first to feature a co-op mode, is in my opinion one of the best games available in the franchise (of course I own this, so why wouldn't I have a bias?). Expect the game to be just as hard as the other incarnations, however with two players at once, the grind is a bit easier, and layers more enjoyable. Yes, you are still fighting sci-fi viruses and combating anime stereotypes, but most of that is purely aesthetics. Grab a friend or family member along for the ride, and you'll see just how fun skin grafting can be!
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Release Date: November 23th, 2007; Played?: Yes
Released smack dab on Black Friday, Sierra was hoping that the past thrill of playing the Xbox exclusive mini game, along with the general shopping hype of said shopping day, would be enough to encourage Wii owners to pick this up for the full $39.99 MSRP. While I'm sure many will argue that it was worth the price then, it's impossible to refute its value for the $5-10 price now. A pure arcade experience, requiring old school twitch gaming skills, is greatly accented by not only dozens of unique levels and enemy types, but also on-line leaderboards, two player options, and a new drone helper, who gains experience in unique skill sets as you progress. If you do plan on buying this, make sure you have a classic controller (or better yet, a CC Pro) to best experience the twin stick shooting awesomeness.
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Release Date: December 3rd, 2007; Played?: No
The final fighting game on this list, and also another one based on a popular manga / anime, offers up a unique aerial and long range fighting mechanic that is worth a look, even if you aren't into the associated media. Be forewarned however, as this is one of the most expensive games on this list, you should look into the game's predecessor (or even PS2 / PS3 variants) for a slightly cheaper title. This also doubles as a heads up for thrift store / pawn shop / yard sale shoppers, as it may slip through the cracks for collectors otherwise.
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Release Date: December 12th, 2007; Played?: No
A significant improvement on last year's game, and perfect for those who were tiring of playing Golf on Wii Sports, comes Tecmo's second links offering on the Wii. Clearly targeted for the more casual player than the serious golfer, there are plenty of features here to recommend it as the best arcade golf experience on the Wii. Also worth mentioning is that you can unlock various costumes from Tecmo's past games for increased nostalgia (and seeing how the DOA series is in that roster list, increased pervertedness). A stellar end to 2007? Maybe not, but still a fine game to close out a great year for the Wii.
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