This year, as a joint Christmas gift, our girls are wanting a new gaming system. 
So, I sent Don on the task of checking out all the newest, most popular gaming systems on the market: PlayStation 3, XBox, and the Wii. And now we’re more confused than ever! All of them are great systems, but we’d like to get one that we can “grow” with, if that makes sense.
The PlayStation 3, from what we can tell, is very graphic intensive. The graphics on their games are really high-tech and look amazing, but the system seems to be more geared toward just action games, which are okay, but we want more variety with whatever system we choose. :doh: The XBox seems to be right along the same lines as the PlayStation 3 in terms of gaming and what it offers.
So, we’ve been looking at the Wii and are trying to figure out what the hype is all about. What we’ve discovered is that there are so many games that go with this system, and all types, too. From action games, to sports, to fun family games everyone could enjoy. There are a ton of different controllers (steering wheel, tennis racket, etc), instead of just the standard controller that many of the other games come with.
Today I’m enlisting your help. If you have a PlayStation 3, XBox or Wii, can you give me the pros and cons? What you love about it, why it’s a great system, and how your family feels about it? Oh, and what about cost in terms of the games? Are they worth it? Any help/advice/suggestions would be much appreciated in helping us make this decision. Oh, and I’m especially interested to know, if you own a Wii, what games do your family enjoy the most? 
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The Plotmonkeys would like to make a special announcement about some auctions that are going on right now to help a fellow author, Jo Leigh, who recently lost her husband to cancer and is now struggling to pay the medical bills left behind. Julie, Leslie, Carly and I all made donations to help the cause, and we’ll list our items here, along with the link to the auction, just in case you’re interested.
Janelle Denison – USAToday Bestselling author for Berkley offers a written critique/evaluation of a first chapter (25 pages max) and a synopsis (10 pages max) of any contemporary romance novel. (Please, no historicals or paranormals). AUCTION LINK HERE
Leslie Kelly – author for Harlequin Temptation, Blaze, HQN, and NAL offers a collection of 25 autographed books (nearly all of her backlist titles, plus a not-yet-released Harlequin Blaze!). AUCTION LINK HERE
Carly Phillips – NYT Bestselling author for HQN offers a complete signed set of Hot Zone books: Hot Stuff, Hot Number, Hot Item, Hot Property. AUCTION LINK HERE
Julie Leto – NYT Bestselling author for Pocket, NAL, and Harlequin Blaze offers an evaluation of a synopsis for Blaze, as well as thirty minutes of telephone consultation on said Blaze. AUCTION LINK HERE
Julie Leto – NYT Bestselling author for Pocket, NAL, and Harlequin Blaze offers a character in her next book (her choice). AUCTION LINK HERE
Julie Leto – NY Times and USA Today Bestselling author offers a six-pack of sexy, adventure-filled romances! Signed and personalized copies of the PHANTOM PLEASURES and PHANTOM’S TOUCH, her connected Blazes, STRIPPED (Winner of the 2007 Best Blaze Award from Romantic Times) and SOMETHING WICKED (to be released in February, 2009) and DIRTY LITTLE SECRETS and DIRTY LITTLE LIES, starring the kick-ass PI, Marisela Morales, go the winner of this auction. AUCTION LINK HERE.
To read More about Jo Leigh’s story, and to see all the great auctions listed, CLICK HERE.
Janelle Denison finds it hard to believe that it’s been nearly 25 years since she first started writing romance novels. At first, it was a way to pass idle time while her husband worked swing shift, but before long it became an obsession to get published. Luckily, she kept at it (it took her over 5 years to get that first book published!) and is now a Waldenbooks, Barnes & Noble, and USA Today Bestselling author! Now, after selling over 45 plus novels, she finds that her Plotmonkey pals help to keep her stories fresh and unique, and she can’t imagine writing a story without their input. Janelle lives in Oregon with her husband, Don, along with two teenage daughters that keep life interesting.
Destiny
Dirty Little Secrets
Once Upon A Valentine
Through The Night
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Amazing auction – I saw this at my friend Laurie’s blog so I also posted it on my own. I think I’m going to try to donate something too. It’s for a good cause.
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Janelle, if I were going to buy a system, I’d buy Wii Fit … I saw Wii Music … I think Wii is so amazing. The others seem to be more action oriented, guys like it, etc. Good luck!
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Good morning monkey buddies and my beloved :monkey :monkey :monkey :monkey. It seems like I have been away for ever. Well, I am back, and I am feeling better…I missed you guys ALOT!!!
Janelle, I know a lot of people who have the Wii, and they are satisfied with it…the beauty of it is that it does have so many games, but it is not your traditional video game…they finally figured out a way to get kids and adults to work out while playing it…my students love the sports and music ones a lot…The price seems to be reasonable as well, especially since it has been out for a while now…
It is sad news about your friend…I will try to take part in the auction…you guys are so wonderful to do this for her…I will keep her in my prayers…
I will swing by later…
Peace and love,
Paula R.
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Definitely the Wii, Janelle.
We have the Wii, the Xbox 360 and a Playstation 2.
The only thing that gets me about the Playstation 3 is that it plays Blu-Ray discs and if you have a high def television, the picture is amazing.
The Xbox 360 games are really geared more toward teenage boys and serious gamers…and you have neither of those. The only game we ever play on it is Star Wars Legos, while cute, could also be played on the Wii.
The Wii gets a much bigger workout around here…not only for Wii games, but for Gamecube games that will work on it, though with different controllers. Then there are the accessories. I really want a Wii Fit and will probably put it on my list. I also want either Guitar Hero or Rock Band. Those look like a ton of fun. Something I would play. (I played GH at my brother’s house and it is indeed, much fun.)
Our Playstation was hit by lightning a few years ago, so we don’t play that anymore…but we didn’t play it much when we had it.
I definitely vote for a Wii. I’m hoping they’ll come out with some sort of trivia games or something…maybe they have them…that’s what I like.
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LOL, my kids would love you! We’ve got a Playstation 2 and a Gamecube. They are all wanting the wii. We’ve got SOOOoo many games though for the ones we have that we keep telling them no. The thing we like about the PS2 is that you can play games from the PS1 and PS2, I dont’ think the PS3 lets you use the older games. So we keep putting them off. Perhaps one day we’ll trade them all in and try to get them a Wii… not this year
But if I had to choose between the 2… the Wii is definitely the neater choice. 
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I’m so sorry to hear about Jo Leigh’s husband.
The auction is a wonderful and generous idea.
Authors and industry professionals are the best!!
As far as gaming systems we don’t play video games. Sorry. I have heard that WII is supposed to be awesome though.
Have a great day all,
Cher
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We got a Wii last Christmas and we love it. It is so simple that my 3 year old can play. So with that said Wii does have lots of controllers but most games you use the two main either the long one or the num chuck (Spelling?) all the other remotes besides one you put the main remote in. There are many games from regular style video games to the interactive type (my Fav) and even board games. I to love the Wii Fit wich is a seperate game you have to buy it comes with the balance board that you use with it. Games range fromm 19.99 (older ones) to 59.00 you can also buy old Nintindo games on the wii Channel that is on the system like Mario brothers. they start at 5.00 and those are saved on the hard drive.
You can design your own character and use everytime you play you choose everything from the eyecolor, eyebrows, to the clothes and much more. you are also able to put your pictures on it you can take your card from your camera and put in and watch a slide show set to music on it you can take pictures and make theminto puzzles (my daughter like to do) I would highly recomend the wii there is so much you can do they have something for everyone and I never liked video games and have never owned a system never wanted one not even as a child but I love the Wii!
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Janelle,
I brought a WII last year for Christmas! Hubby and the kids love it!!! We have Wii fit and Wii music ( this one is actually a little hard for the kids). Most of the games my 7 and 4 year olds can play. We just got Star Wars and the game is fantastic!! You swing the controller around just like you were holding a lightsaber. If you have a wireless router you can go on line. You can also down load older games like Super Mario Bothers and Pacman.
I’m not a big gamer but i love the wii, as soon as my husband turns it on and the music plays the kids come running. It’s a great way to spend family time.
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X5I want a Wii…I like the idea that you have to ‘move’ to do some of the games, plus the variety. XBOX seems like it is for ‘gamers’ (that’s what I have been told) and we’re non-gamers, although, oldest loves his computer games….that’s why I want a Wii…get him moving!!
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Of course, I want a Wii Fit, but that’s besides the point.
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I was given a WII with Fit. The DD and her fiance love it! They play Guitar Hero, WII sports, and…some other games. I used to use the Fit every day. Loved the Yoga. Then I got busy and lazy. I need to start it up again. I’d vote WII.
The auction is a wonderful idea. Headed over now to put some bids in.
There’s only 24 shopping days left… :yikes:
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Paula — welcome back! You’ve definitely been missed. :wave:
We’re definitely leaning more towards the Wii. Julie, I didn’t know that you could use the Gamecube games on it — the girls do have a Gamecube, so it’s good to know the games will work on it.
We’ve been looking at all the Wii games available — there are SO many of them! And I think the Wii fit might be fun, too — oh, and the Dance, Dance Revolution game! Anyone have that one? If so, do you like it?
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I have never allowed our kids to have a game system, but I love the Wii. We have played it at different friends and family. The Wii is very interactive and love loove love the bowling and tennis. Quite a workout for a couch reader like me. This is our big gift wish list.
But, since we agreed as a family to go to Disneyland this will probably be a gift for next year.
Have fun no matter which you decide.
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Thanks for putting up the info on the auction. Great cause and great auction items. I just made my first bid.
We don’t have any video game systems, but if I had to pick one, it would be the Wii, because you get up and move. My kids play it when we visit their cousins and they have a blast.
Like Debbie @ 13, we are going on a family trip this Christmas, so we may get a Wii next year as a family gift.
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I have the Wii and really like it. I also have the wiifit and the cool thing is the fit board goes with some of the other games. My nieces want one now that I have one. You can even play against other people if you hook it up thru your internet or cable.
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I would say the Wii is your best bet. Its a really fun system that everyone will enjoy!!
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I want a Wii myself. Daughter has the xbox and loves it, but she is older and likes the action games. Lego Star Wars anyone?
I didn’t know about Jo Leigh’s husband. That is so sad and to have all the bills on top of it. I will be following the links over myself. Wish I had something to donate, but I don’t.
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Love the auction – have bid on a few items…
but I’m pretty sure I’ve already been outbid.
As for the gaming systems… I’m not a huge gamer, so I don’t really care for the xbox or PS3. I bought myself a wii a few wknds ago – and have been SUPER busy so I haven’t gotten to play it much. But it’s great for “party” games and group games – and I just bought a wii fit, which seems to have terrific reviews across the board, so I’m excited for when I’ll have free time to play :)
[So there you have it - my vote? Wii.]
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Hearing about Jo’s situation made me sick to my stomach. I can’t imagine having to deal with the loss and the bills on top of that. I’m on my way there right now to put in my bids.
Sorry, Janelle, absolutely no help at all. Good luck on making a decision!!
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I have a Wii and I love it! Wii Sports is great (comes with system) and Wii Play is also a must have, for the fun games like cow racing and target shooting (it also comes with a free Wiimote, so it’s hard to pass up). Mario Kart Wii is great if you ever played it on an older system, or just like racing games. They also have versions of Guitar Hero, Rock Band, DDR, and all the other big name games for Wii. Super Mario Galaxy is also great as an exploration adventure game. I was looking forward to Wii Music, but I haven’t heard great things from those who have played it. The nice thing about the Wii is that everyone from 3 year olds to the elderly can play and have a great time. I had a 6 year old beat me at tennis and my friend’s uncle was unbeatable at cow racing, so it’s something everyone can enjoy.
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I’m so sorry to hear about Jo Leigh’s husband. When they got married I remember reading about it on eHarlequin. They weren’t married a long time. I’m so sorry to hear he has passed away. Jo Leigh is another of my favorite authors. Thanks Plotmonkeys for being so generous.
I don’t play video games or own a system so I am no help to you. My grandson tried to get me to play a game with him on Thanksgiving but I passed on the opportunity!! Since I don’t play, the once or twice I have it was terrible!!!! :happy2:
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Wow, I’m so excited to see what a great start the auction is off to. Thanks so much to anyone who went to support it. Jo is a terrific woman and a wonderful writer, and I’m sure she will greatly appreciate this.
Janelle–we have a Wii and a PS2. The Wii definitely gets the most use, I love it! My favorite game is Mario Kart. You can put the controller right into a “steering wheel” and actually “drive” in the race. Lots and lots of fun.
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I just wanted to jump back on here and say to the Plotmonkeys
There are so many wonderful items available at the auction. And your generosity is a constant source of inspiration to me!! Thank you!
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We have a Wii and we love it! I like it because the games are family friendly- bowling is a riot and some of the sports games are laugh out loud fun. Each game challenges on some level. We have a wide variety of games and also the Wii Fit. I lost 15 pounds so far doing the Wii Fit. It also has this feature where if you have a wireless internet connection you can use the Wii to go online and download some of the older nintendo titles-super mario, zelda etc. Downloading is cheap compared to some- about 5 to 10 bucks a game. I was resistant to owning a system but have been surprised by how fun the Wii can be.
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My families vote is the Wii.
Both my girls love it and they are 22 and 17. They have had it about 2 and half years.
I just got them Guitar Hero Legends of Rock and Roll. They love the game. For Christmas this year they are getting Guitar Hero World Tour with two new controllers.
What I like about the Wii is that they can play all their old Game Cube games and it is very family friendly.
Zelda Twilight Princess is their #1favorite game for the Wii. Supersmash Brothers Brawl followed by Guitar Hero.
Hope this helps. :monkey
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I’m not a big gamer, but if you’re looking for something for the whole family, I’d probably go with the Wii. The people I know who have them really enjoy them and you don’t have to be a gamer to understand the games.
The auction has so many good items that I’m having a hard time deciding what to bid on.
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My son, who is 19 years old and has been playing video games forever, has all the systems (Wii, Playstation, Xbox, etc.) and according to him if you are new to video games, go for the Wii. The whole family can enjoy it. I can attest to that. I don’t usually play video games because I’m techologically challenged (lol), but I’ve played Wii and really had fun! He’s really into his Xbox right now but he says that system is more for the serious video game player.
So according to us – Wii is the way to go! Good luck, Janelle!
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Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jo Leigh on the loss of her husband.
I’ve been over to the auction site and I commend the Plotmonkeys for
their donations to the cause. Good friends always help out good friends!
You = good friends!
Pat Cochran
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Like everyone else, I say go for the Wii. Santa brought us one last year and it’s gotten tons of use. My favorite game is Zelda, but I’ve always enjoyed Zelda.
My 7 yr old and I play tennis and bowl. He prefers tennis because he always wins.
Both the 7 year old and the 5 yr old play Lego Star Wars and Lego Indian Jones (my fav).
My DH loves Guitar Hero. As a family we’re looking at Rock Band or GH World Tour because then we could all play, but it won’t happen any time soon.
I want a Wii Fit so we can ski and snowboard, but understand there are other fun games to play with it.
They do have some trivia games/ mind exercising type games. I can’t remember the name, but my 7 yr old challenges me to a round all the time.
They love Super Smash Bros, but it’s a game I would have never bought (DH bought it on a weekend I wasn’t home)
It’s lots of fun to play as a family or solo. Wait until TRU has their Buy 2 Get 1 free sale (~3 times a year) and get your games then.
Santa will bring the Outdoor Challenge this year. I can’t wait for winter break.
Enjoy your new system!
You all are wonderful. I’m checking out the auction now.
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Like Julie, we have a Wii, an XBOX 360 and a Playstation 2. If you are picking one and don’t have a teenage son who is a serious gamer, go for the Wii. It has the widest range of games the whole family can enjoy. Rock Band is available for the Wii (we actually have it on the XBOX 360, but it’s the same game). Get the one with the actual drums and guitars — you can play it with the Wii controllers, but not nearly as much fun. Wii sports is fun, and all the RPGs, and an added bonus for Wii is that you can use the GameCube games (which you can buy used really cheap at GameStop and other stores). We just bought Wii Fit for my son for Christmas so haven’t tried it yet, but looks awesome. There’s an underwater exploring game on Wii that I really like — can’t think of the name of it, but it’s really fun (and educational too). Also, Wii seems like a system that will really grow with your kids be/c there is such a wide range of games available.
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Hi, Janelle! We have a Wii (we’ve had a it for about a year), and we still play it regularly. We started out with just the Wii Sports and Wii Play, and we probably still play the Sports the most. We’ve since also acquired–The Hottest Dance Party (which my husband used for months to work out), Link’s Crossbow Training (which motivated our youngest to get potty trained), Lego Star Wars, Lego Indiana Jones, Super Mario Galaxy, and Mario Kart. Besides Wii Sports, we probably play Mario Kart and Link’s the most. The others are fun, but once you play it through the whole way, it’s less interesting to replay. Oh, and we just got Legend of Zelda, but haven’t started yet. Our kids’ friends have some Monkeyball game that they love, but we haven’t picked that up yet. And I still want a Wii Fit, but haven’t lucked out at the store yet.