10. Super Mario All-Stars 25th Anniversary
This wonderful re-release sees four of the original – and most acclaimed – Mario adventures on one disc, encompassing Super Mario Bros 1, 2 and 3 along with Super Mario Bros: The Lost Levels. These charmingly simple and accessible platformers can be enjoyed by all ages and remind players just why the Super Mario games have become one of the most celebrated and long-lasting series’ in gaming history. A perfect introduction to the series for budding gamers, or an enjoyable celebration for long-time fans. Everybody wins.
9. Lego Star Wars III & Complete Saga
There’s only one thing that can make Star Wars better, and that’s Lego. In Lego Star Wars: The Complete Saga and Lego Star Wars 3: The Clone Wars, players embark on a colourful and hilarious adventure to a brick-filled galaxy far, far away for many levels of teamwork, creativity and fun. Packed with content from the endless collectables to the great number of playable characters to unlock, these games keep players coming back with their addictive and infinitely enjoyable gameplay.
8. Mario Party 8
Taking place across more than 60 minigames, Mario Party 8 sees up to four players roll virtual dice and move around five game boards to compete in crazy activities that make full use of the Wii Remote. Encouraging active gameplay, the game is a fun way to exercise – and with a single-player mode also included, anyone, can have a Mario Party! One of the most entertaining games on the console, Mario Party 8 is a must-have for younger players.
7. Super Mario Galaxy & Galaxy 2
Among the most critically acclaimed titles on the Wii console, the Super Mario Galaxy games breathe new life into the usual Mario platforming experience by reinventing it with mind-blowing space-themed mechanics, Wii-enhanced controls and truly innovative and imaginative gameplay. One of the most creative gaming experiences ever put on any console, these titles are absolutely essential for players of all ages.
6. Kirby's Epic Yarn
This extremely fun and unique game provides many hours of solid entertainment, wrapped up in charming, craft-influenced visuals. Free from any real challenge or severe punishments, this is a simplistic, funny and inventive little adventure that serves as a wonderful, stress-free escape from reality, making this Kirby’s finest and most heartwarming hour – and an absolutely wonderful introduction to gaming for youngsters. Addictive and colourful, it is a true delight.
5. Lego Harry Potter 1-4 & 5-7
The LEGO games are universally celebrated and for good reason. If the Star Wars games in this list don’t float your boat, perhaps a trip to Hogwarts might be more up your (Diagon) alley! Packed with charming humour, addictive gameplay and endless replayability, these wonderful games are at their best when adapting a beloved film series, and a perfect example of this is Harry Potter. A warm, passionate love- letter to the films, this game combines everything that makes a LEGO game so much fun and the result is one of their best.
4. Animal Crossing: Let’s Go to The City
Focused on pure escapism and simple, addictive gameplay, Animal Crossing sees players moving into a village full of adorable animals and simply living life in real-time. With days and seasons passing, the game is totally open for you to do what you want. Perhaps you want to go shopping for a dandy new hat, fishing for a rare catch or choosing new furniture for your home – the possibilities are endless, and with a new urban area to explore, this is one of the biggest and best Animal Crossing games out there.
3. Just Dance
The Wii console is celebrated for its focus on active exercise-based gameplay, and the Just Dance series remains the finest example of this. With a large number of games in the series – including a Disney edition – all genres of music are catered to for young players to boogie along with. Endlessly replayable and enjoyable, the Just Dance series is one of the best game series on the console and an absolutely essential game if you want to get your kids up and moving.
2. New Super Mario Bros. Wii
Retaining the elements that players know and love about Super Mario while introducing new multiplayer elements that offer a combination of competition and cooperation, New Super Mario Bros is a fun and colourful romp that will provide hours of entertainment for all ages. Nobody does it better than the Super Mario Bros, and this Wii masterpiece is a timeless reminder of why. An essential part of any Wii collection.
1. Mario Kart Wii
Could #1 really be anything else? The Mario Kart series is among the most enjoyable and accessible in gaming, and the motion-controlled Wii game presents a highlight. Packed to the brim with characters, tracks, vehicles and power-ups, Mario Kart also offers the ability to play as your Mii and take to the tracks as yourself! With a focus on simple, colourful fun, Mario Kart Wii presents the Nintendo console at its best and an essential game for younger players.