What was Nintendo's 6th console?

The Nintendo Wii – The Revolution That Changed Gaming Forever

If you're a fan of Nintendo or just curious about the evolution of video game consoles, you might be wondering: What was Nintendo’s sixth console?

The answer is the Nintendo Wii, released in 2006, and it wasn’t just another console—it was a game-changer.

🏁 A Quick History of Nintendo’s Consoles

Before the Wii, Nintendo had already released five major home consoles:

  1. NES (Nintendo Entertainment System) – 1983

  2. SNES (Super Nintendo) – 1990

  3. Nintendo 64 – 1996

  4. GameCube – 2001

  5. Wii – ✅ 2006 → Nintendo’s 6th home console

Unlike its predecessors, the Wii didn't focus on graphics or raw power. Instead, it revolutionized gaming by introducing a motion-controlled experience that appealed to casual players, families, and seniors alike.

🎮 What Made the Nintendo Wii Special?

🕹️ Motion Controls

The Wii introduced the Wii Remote, a controller that could detect movement and motion. Players could swing it like a tennis racket, swing a sword, or bowl in Wii Sports—no buttons required.

👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Focus

Unlike the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 (its competitors), the Wii was designed for everyone:

  • Grandparents

  • Young children

  • Non-gamers

  • Even people using it for fitness (Wii Fit)

📦 Affordable and Accessible

At launch, the Wii was significantly cheaper than the PS3 and Xbox 360, making it more accessible for families around the world.

🌟 Best-Selling & Iconic Wii Games

Game Genre Why It’s Iconic Link
Wii Sports Sports Came bundled with the console; hugely accessible Nintendo Page
Mario Kart Wii Racing Online multiplayer, motion-controlled steering Mario Kart Series
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Action-Adventure Epic launch title with motion swordplay Zelda Series
Super Smash Bros. Brawl Fighting Huge crossover with iconic characters Smash Bros.
Wii Fit Fitness Turned gaming into a workout Wii Fit Info

📊 Nintendo Wii in Numbers

  • 📅 Released: November 2006

  • 💰 Launch Price: $249.99 USD

  • 📦 Units Sold: Over 101 million

  • 🎯 Best-Selling Game: Wii Sports (over 82 million copies)

  • 🕹️ Accessories: Nunchuk, Wii Balance Board, Classic Controller

🛍️ Where to Find a Wii in 2025

While it’s no longer in production, you can still get a Wii:

  • 🛒 Youwei Trade Retro Collection

  • 📦 eBay or local retro game stores

  • 💻 Emulation devices (like Retroid Pocket or Anbernic) for Wii game support

🧠 Final Thoughts

The Nintendo Wii was Nintendo’s 6th console, and arguably one of its most influential. Instead of chasing power, it redefined how games are played, making it possible for people of all ages to enjoy interactive fun.

Whether you're reliving nostalgia or discovering it for the first time, the Wii holds a special place in gaming history.

🎁 Want to build a retro Wii setup or find a console that plays old Wii games? Just ask—I can help you find the best options for 2025.