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General discussion

First Game System Purchase for Kids

Dec 2, 2006 11:50PM PST

There are many choices this holiday gift-giving season. We are considering a game system for the younger kids in the family, but also one the grownups will not be bored with.

Is the Nintendo Wii a good first purchase? PS3 seems way too expensive for the kids.

We know the kids like MLB Baseball, Madden Football, and Super Mario Bros, for starter games.

Discussion is locked

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YUP
Dec 4, 2006 10:51AM PST

I guess the Nintendo Wii si going to be the best especially for kids as it has less of those 'hardcore' games and is simple. Even adults will like the way the Wii works so I guess the Wii si best for you. Secondly as it is a first purchase, it is better to go for something cheap.

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Go for it
Dec 5, 2006 12:16AM PST

The Wii will be great for your kids and you won't be hurting in the wallet too bad. Also, the Wii makes for a better system to play with your kids too.

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Wii for kids is great, but can you actually buy one?
Dec 5, 2006 10:13PM PST

I deceided to try the Wii at the local mall where they had several stations setup. The last time I played a video game I was "flipping" Asteroids. Wii is certainly a lot of fun if not addictive. I think the little ones will be able to figure it out as well.

Now that I like the system, I guess I can buy one right? HAH!

I was "informed" on Sunday which store was the largest in my area, and was to receive a shipment Tuesday. Went to the store before it opened (first in line) and guess what - the monster shipment came in on MONDAY. I was not the only one with bad information.

Now I have my 3 secret shoppers (grandparents) stalking 6 stores today to continue our mission. This is a little crazy atmosphere for our first gaming purchase. Nintendo needs to provide MORE of these things!

Trying to keep positive, it is a great way to get the grandparents involved in the christmas shopping spirit!

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Wii - found at EB Games
Dec 6, 2006 7:43AM PST

I am happy to report the long search is over. My family will be enjoying a Wii gaming system this holiday season. After visiting A LOT of local stores (circuit city, toysrus, sears, bestbuy) I decided to focus my efforts on EBGames at the local mall. They were hosting a Wii mall tour / kiosk.

This local gaming store was receiving large quantities (63 one day and 90 another). I waited in a short line inside the comforts of the mall. This is quite a contrast from the line OUTSIDE at 5 am this morning (20 degree temp) around the building at the local Wal-Mart, and they only had a few to sell at 8am.

EB Games was very professional, sending 3 customers at a time in the store for checkout. The phone rings non-stops at the store, and the salesrep was very patient answering all the questions in the store and on the phone.

I am very happy with the decision to buy the Wii as our first gaming system. I wish buying it was a little less painful. My advice, check the mall, call often, follow the UPS delivery schedule, and bring reading material while you wait in line.

I am glad the wait is over and I can work on the others on my gift giving list. Thank you CNet.