Publisher: Nintendo

Developer: Intelligent Systems

Release Date: 01/15/2007

Available Exclusively On

WarioWare has always been about showing off the capabilities of Nintendo’s systems, usually in the controls department. Each iteration has been 100% unique to that system, starting back on the GameBoy Advance. Smooth Moves uses the Wii Remote and Nunchuck in really unique and fun ways, but just like too much fun, it only lasts as long as a snack.

Just like every other WarioWare game, you play small microgames that last 5 seconds each and are only given a single-word clue on how to complete that mini-game. It goes by in a flash and requires quick reflexes to complete. The main map of the game consists of 8 different mini-game stories that are just little hand-drawn cut scenes to make some sense of the crazy sense of humor. Games range from opening a door to weird men, picking a nose, shaving a beard, and whacking people with bats. There are probably 30 odd mini-games here, but sadly, you can go through all of them in less than an hour.

That’s about how long this game lasts, fun-wise as well. There are some side games like can shooter, stack the blocks, and a few others, but they get boring quickly. Honestly, this is a good entry game for new Wii system owners, as you have to hold the Wii Remote in certain ways, such as on top of your head, on your nose, or like a steering wheel. There are various “positions” that flash before each microgame on how to hold the Wii Remote, making this probably the most unique WarioWare game ever made. It’s super silly and incredibly funny, but also frustrating.

Some mini-games take several tries to understand what you’re supposed to do, and I got a game over many times because I just couldn’t figure out the microgame fast enough. It’s not a big deal because each “story” only lasts about 3 minutes, and you quickly go through all 15 microgames to reach a “boss.” This boss fight lasts 10 seconds and is just an extended version of the microgames. This includes driving around corners without hitting anything, playing the original StarFox, and playing a dancing mini-game.

I honestly would have been made to pay $50 for this game when it was released, as it’s easily a $20 game at best. It feels like a budget game, but it isn’t bad at all; it is just incredibly short and more fun to play with people around. I would have liked a party mode where other players have to jump after each microgame to make things crazy, or even some two-person mini-games. There’s a lot of missed potential here, but what we get is a lot of fun.

Overall, Smooth Moves lasts about as long as a large bucket of popcorn, and it’s all over, leaving you wanting more. It shows you how unique the Wii controls are, but doesn’t offer anything meaty to satisfy this unique playset.