My mother played a video game

I like computers and the games that are played on them. My father had a pong game, but the PC was the number one game playing avenue. Probably much to my mother’s concern that I was not out playing with my friends enough or wasting my time. My mom never touched the computer. I think she hated it. But recently, that has changed a lot. She sends e-mails and talks to me in instant messenger. She has learned a lot in the past few years and really has become a computer literate person. My dad, on the other hand, has played computer games and even written software so he can play puzzles he enjoys. He sits in front of his computer as much as I do, most likely. I would never imagine to see both of them playing a common video game and having lots of fun, ever.

Enter the Wii. Doubles tennis with my brother, my dad, my mom, and myself. It was fun. It was a little bit of a workout. I think everyone had a good time playing. When I think about it, it was weird. Playing tennis in my living room. I think the Wii really does this kind of thing well. It’s just fun to play. And I really like having something that anyone can play and have fun without having to be some kind of video game snob.

Unexpected Wiindfall

I have been known to only own “dead” console systems. I only have two, a PSP and a Sega Dreamcast, so it’s more of a general guideline than a rule. But then Guitar Hero was rumored to be coming to the Wii, plus my experiences playing Wii-Sports, I decided to pick one up. No small task.

I was not going to stalk stores or put down $600 for one (the retail being about $250). I would take my time and visit a Target store or Best Buy when I was nearby. Casually checking for one when I had some time, the lazy approach. And it actually worked out. A new Best Buy was opening near work and it was their opening day. They had been shipped 30 Wii’s that morning and there were plenty sitting on the shelves. So I picked one up. Since it was their grand opening, I also got a free $10 gift card.

Of course, no Wii is complete without a compliment of four controllers so my friends can play doubles tennis or four player bowling. The local Best Buy and Target stores were sold out. But Amazon had plenty and I could wait a week for them to be delivered, right? If only. Using the cheapest (free) shipping method promptly sent my shipment into a United States Postal Service limbo zone. Their technologically advanced system clearly states that the package was delivered, yet I have nothing to show for it. At least Amazon is going to refund my money. By the time all of this transpired, Best Buy had thirty or more controllers in stock and I was able to pick up three more easily.

Mission Accomplished.