By Kelly A. Shue
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE
After hitting Riderwood with a bang, the Wii sensation continues to gather players through new games and energetic tournaments. Over the last year, community members have found a love for Wii, the Nintendo game system that uses actual movement to simulate a real game on-screen.
“I really want to show off to my grandchildren who are always walking around playing their Nintendos,” says community member Esther McGuire.
Easy to learn
Much of the success of Riderwood’s recent Wii tournament lies in the fact that the Wii gaming system is so easy to learn. In fact, most of the competitors had little or no video game experience before moving to Riderwood. But their successes prove they are all quick learners.
Earl Davis admits that the last time he played video games was when “Pong” was popular. “No, I haven’t played before,” he says, “but it’s very easy to learn.” “I had never heard of the Wii before,” says Hal Winters, who won Riderwood’s first-ever Wii bowling tournament last May. “I have no knowledge of or experience with any other video games.”
Riderwood began its foray into the world of Wii with a bowling competition last summer. For many, the tournament introduced community members to the newest fad in video gaming for the first time.
Building momentum
Since receiving its first two Wii gaming systems from Nintendo, Riderwood has purchased a third and plans to purchase a fourth.
“Anyone can play, and you can take it anywhere as long as you have a television or a screen and the Wii game system,” says Claudia Davis, who placed second overall in the first Wii bowling tournament.