Summary

Release Year: 2006
Genres: Puzzle
Platforms: Wii, Wii U
Developers: Intelligent Systems Co., Ltd., Nintendo SPD Production Group No. 1
Publishers: Nintendo

WarioWare: Smooth Moves (2006) Review

Prepare yourself for a whirlwind of wacky and unforgettable gaming experiences with WarioWare: Smooth Moves, a motion-controlled masterpiece released for the Wii in 2006. This installment in the beloved WarioWare series takes the frantic microgame formula to new heights with its innovative use of the Wii Remote, transforming everyday gestures into hilarious and challenging gameplay.

Gameplay: A Symphony of Motion-Controlled Chaos

WarioWare: Smooth Moves retains the core gameplay of its predecessors, tasking players with completing a rapid succession of microgames, each lasting only a few seconds. However, this Wii iteration introduces a game-changing element: motion controls. By utilizing the Wii Remote’s motion-sensing capabilities, Smooth Moves transforms mundane actions like shaking, tilting, and pointing into integral parts of the gameplay.

The game features over 200 microgames, each designed to showcase the Wii Remote’s unique abilities. From slicing fruit by mimicking a sword swing to steering a car by tilting the remote, the variety of motion-controlled challenges is both impressive and endlessly entertaining. The intuitive controls make the game accessible to players of all skill levels, while the frantic pace and unpredictable nature of the microgames ensure that every session is a thrilling and laughter-filled experience.

Characters: A Quirky and Unforgettable Cast

WarioWare: Smooth Moves boasts a vibrant cast of characters, each with their own distinct personalities and signature moves. The titular Wario, known for his greed and mischievous nature, takes center stage once again, along with his loyal sidekick, Mona. Players can also control a diverse roster of characters, including Jimmy T., a muscle-bound bodybuilder; Ashley, a young witch; and 9-Volt, a retro video game enthusiast.

Each character possesses unique abilities that they utilize in their microgames, adding an extra layer of strategy and variety to the gameplay. For instance, Wario’s signature move involves shaking the Wii Remote vigorously, while Mona can use her psychic powers to move objects with a flick of the wrist. The diverse cast of characters ensures that there’s a playstyle to suit every preference, making the game endlessly replayable.

Story: A Zany Adventure with a Twist

While WarioWare games are not typically known for their complex narratives, Smooth Moves offers a surprisingly engaging and humorous storyline. The game begins with Wario and his friends discovering a mysterious book and a mystical device called the Form Baton. As they experiment with the Form Baton, they inadvertently transform themselves into various objects and creatures, setting off on a zany adventure to uncover the secrets of their newfound powers.

The story unfolds through a series of animated cutscenes, each brimming with the signature WarioWare brand of humor. Players will encounter a colorful cast of supporting characters, including Dr. Crygor, a brilliant but eccentric scientist; Mike, a dim-witted but lovable bodybuilder; and Orbulon, an alien from outer space. The story takes players on a wild ride through various locations, from Wario’s humble abode to a haunted mansion and even outer space, all while keeping them entertained with its quirky humor and unexpected twists.

Graphics and Sound: A Visual and Aural Extravaganza

WarioWare: Smooth Moves showcases the Wii’s graphical capabilities with its vibrant and colorful art style. The microgames are visually diverse, ranging from simple line drawings to fully realized 3D environments. The character designs are exaggerated and expressive, perfectly capturing the over-the-top personalities of the cast.

The game’s soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring a mix of catchy tunes and sound effects that perfectly complement the frantic gameplay. Each microgame has its own unique musical accompaniment, further enhancing the sense of variety and excitement. The voice acting is top-notch, with each character delivering their lines with infectious enthusiasm.

Legacy: A Timeless Classic with Lasting Impact

WarioWare: Smooth Moves has cemented its place as a beloved classic in the Wii library and the WarioWare franchise. Its innovative use of motion controls revolutionized the microgame genre, creating a truly unique and unforgettable gaming experience. The game’s quirky humor, diverse characters, and engaging story continue to entertain and delight players to this day.

Smooth Moves has also had a lasting impact on the video game industry. Its success helped to popularize motion controls, which have since become a staple of many Wii games. The game’s unique gameplay formula has also inspired other developers, leading to the creation of similar motion-controlled microgame collections.

Conclusion: A Must-Play for Wii Owners and WarioWare Fans

WarioWare: Smooth Moves is an absolute must-play for Wii owners and fans of the WarioWare series. Its innovative motion controls, quirky humor, and diverse cast of characters make it a truly unique and unforgettable gaming experience. Whether you’re a seasoned WarioWare veteran or a newcomer to the franchise, Smooth Moves is guaranteed to provide hours of laughter and frantic fun. So grab your Wii Remote, prepare for some wacky motion-controlled mayhem, and get ready to experience one of the most beloved and enduring classics in the Wii library.