Wii Party - Board Game Island

Here is a look at what is probably the main game mode from Nintendo's new party game anthology Wii Party.  Board Game Island will be easily understood by fans of the Mario Party series, and the easygoing pace should attract just about everyone in the family.

Players take turns moving along a game board, which marches up a tropical mountain.  Mini-games are played to determine the pecking order, and nothing else, which is an interesting choice.  It enables that less-skilled players (your parents, for example) won't feel frustrated or left out.  Fortunately for gamers, other competitions in Wii Party rely on winning the mini-games, so it's okay to relax here.  Besides, this island is very compelling and very fun.

The thing I really love about Board Game Island is its sense of humor.  This is a really funny game, and you can't help but chuckle at all the silly slapstick gags.  Am I really being chased by a dinosaur?  Did that statue just sneeze me back four spaces?  Was I just kidnapped by a UFO?  Extra style points for the appearance of Miis as a cheering audience, which adds to the cheerful atmosphere.

As soon as I saw this game in action, I knew it would be a hit at family get-togethers, and especially during the holiday season.  Usually, that honor is bestowed upon Wii Sports or Wii Sports Resort (cough, bowling).  This year, we'll have to pull this out and see what happens next..

I really do hope Nintendo packs in a free Wiimote with Wii Party.  I think Wii Play is finally winding down after all these years, which means somebody else has to pick up the torch.