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by Published on February 2nd, 2011 12:21- Categories:
- Nintendo Wii News,
- DCEmu Reviews
2.4Ghz Wireless Nunchuk Controller
Manufacturer: N/A
Site: Buy from BudgetGadgets
Price: $17.78; add $1.35 if you want packaging (use coupon code TM5OFF8 and get 5% off site wide)
Overview : This product is a 2.4G wireless controller for Wii Nunchuck with high frequency and coordinates with Wii Remotes (Remote Control) to use on Wii console, which makes it more convenient and fast when operating. It is designed with built-in rechargeable lithium ion batteries, and can save trouble of replacing batteries. It is compatible with Motion Plus.
Specs:
- Size: 82g or 2.89oz
- Cable Length: 1020mm or 40.16in
- Bluetooth Controller Work Voltage: DC 3.3v
- Effective Distance: 5m
- Frequency: 2.4G
Quality/Usability : Having to use the wired Nunchuk controller can get a bit annoying when you're playing a game that requires swinging and moving of both arms. Either the Nunchuk wire gets in the way and you get tangled up or you get slapped with it. Nintendo should of made the Nunchuk wireless but where they fail, other 3rd party manfacturers will pick up the slack. The 2.4Ghz Wireless Nunchuk Controller was from BudgetGadgets and came with no packaging. It comes with Nunchuk, receiver, wrist strap, USB cable and manual. You may or may not receive packaging with any item you purchase from them. Even if you wanted packaging, you would have to pay an additional cost. I'll get into this more in the Conclusion at the bottom.
Shape and size is identical to that of the Nintendo Nunchuk...minus the wire. The blue backing of the Nunchuk has a rubber texture to allow better grip. On the bottom left side of the wireless Nunchuk is a switch. This lets you turn it ON and turn OFF for when you're using it and to save battery when you're not. The very bottom is a little port to insert the USB plug for when you need to charge it. The bottom front is a small LED indicator to let you know when its pairing (blinking) and when its paired (steady blue).
The receiver has a small LED indicator at the bottom of the Nunchuk. When the Nunchuk is plugged in and charging, the LED is red. When the Nunchuk is done charging, the LED will turn off. After about 2 hours or so of charging, the controller is ready to be put to use. A blue LED is lit to let you know when its pairing and when its paired with the Nunchuk. The receiver connects to the bottom of the Wii Remote Controller. If you have a Wii Motion Plus adapter, the receiver would connect to the bottom of the Wii Motion Plus. The size of the receiver is fairly long, so it will get in the way if you bend your wrist. To remove the receiver, simply pull it out. There is no clips holding it in place like the plug on the wired Nunchuk controller but the receiver is held in place securely. I was able to get a good 12-14 hours of gameplay before the Nunchuk needed to be recharged. However since the receiver is running off the Wii Remote, it drains the battery even quicker. So if you're still using regular alkaline battery, I suggest getting rechargeable battery packs.
Conclusion : Overall, the 2.4Ghz Wireless Nunchuk Controller is what the Nunchuk should of been from the start. The reception was great (than again, your arms arent going to be that far apart) and the accuracy is very good. Since it draws power from the Wii Remote, expect the battery life of the Wii Remote to be shorter. I was able to get a good amount of play time before the Nunchuk had to be recharged. It would have been nice if there was also an indicator stating when the battery is running low.
For the price of $18 (no packaging) or $20 (with packaging), its a bit pricey. For the same amount, you can get a Nyko Kama which has a small length receiver and longer battery life but uses (2) AAA batteries.
Now, back to BudgetGadgets packaging issue. Under their FAQ, this is what is stated about packaging:
For some of the products we offer the 'Package' option. By default, the package is not selected so that we can save shipping cost thus we can offer lower price to our dear customers like you. If you choose the 'No Package' option, we will NOT ship the package to you.
And, to avoid potential quality issue, we always test each item when we get them from suppliers, and then we test them again before we ship them, thus sometimes we need to open the packages. And some items come without the package when we get them from supplier, so sometimes you will also get the item without the package, but all items we sell are in BRAND NEW condition, please don't worry about that.
For those items that gives you the 'Package' option, I dont know if its worth it or not to pay extra when it should be included. Than again, its going to get thrown away when you receive it and bust open the package but I would like the satisfaction that it was from a sealed package and I'm the one that opened it. I can see how BudgetGadgets is offering free shipping by cutting back on including packaging. However, other online stores include the packaging ...by Published on February 2nd, 2011 12:21- Categories:
- Nintendo Wii News,
- DCEmu Reviews
Joybox PlayStation Controller Adapter
Manufacturer: N/A
Site: Buy from Goldenshop
Price: $9.00
Overview : Use your most beloved PlayStation controller on your GameCube/Wii.
Features :
- High quality 3rd party product.
- Convert the PSX/PSX2 controller to be used on the GameCube or Wii console.
- Supports rumble function.
- Supports all the buttons.
Quality/Usability : I know I'm probably not the one that enjoys and loves the way the PlayStation controller feels in our hands. Some may not like the feel of the GameCube controller whether it be design or button layout but now, there is an option to let you use your beloved PlayStation controller instead.
We tested the Joybox PlayStation Controller Adapter. Nothing fancy. Just a simple piece of adapter that plugs into the GameCube controller port and a female PlayStation adapter to plug your PlayStation controller. The best part about the Joybox is the compatibility with the PlayStation 2 controller. Yes, the Dual Shock feedback even works. Here is a layout of the buttons compared between the GameCube and PlayStation controllers:
GameCube---PlayStation
D-pad--------------D-pad
A--------------X
B--------------Square
Y--------------Triangle
X--------------Circle
Z--------------R1/L1
R--------------R2
L--------------L2
C-Stick--------------Right Analog
You wont be able to configure the button setups but I dont know why you would want to considering the PlayStation controller layout is almost the same as the GameCubes. For some games, the "Z" button on the GameCube is the R1 on the PlayStation but depending on the game, it can also be L1. So you get to use both R1 or L1.
Regarding the feedback, I noticed that for some games, it was strong as if I was playing a PlayStation game but with some, the rumble feedback wasnt as strong but you can still feel it.
Conclusion : Overall, the Joybox PlayStation Controller Adapter works well for those who want to play GameCube games with their PlayStation controllers. A nice feature is the ability to allow rumble feedback when using a Dual Shock controller. The price of $9 for this adapter is fairly cheap. The layout of the buttons is similar to that of the GameCube controller. If you dont have an extra GameCube controller for that extra multiplayer fun but have a PlayStation controller, this will come in handy.
Images via comments ...by Published on February 2nd, 2011 12:21- Categories:
- Nintendo Wii News,
- DCEmu Reviews
Wii 5-in-1 Laser Pointer Gun
Manufacturer: PEGA
Site: Buy from Goldenshop
Price: $14.00
Overview : Improve your shooting skills with this 5-in-1 laser pointer gun.
Features
- High quality 3rd party product.
- Easy to install.
- Natural Nunchuk trigger combined with the functional innovation of the Wii Remote.
- Ergonomically balanced and weighted gun, comfortable for 1 handed or 2 handed gamplay.
- Maintains Wii Innovation Motion.
- Secure and easy installation. Extended grip for the directional control of the rear nunchuk analog joystick.
- Full access to all buttons and digital pad.
- Can be used as handgun only.
- Can be used as tommy gun.
- Comes with laser targeting - operated by 2 AAA size batteries.
- The Nunchuk can be separated easily.
- The folding angle of the Nunchuk can be adjusted.
Quality/Usability : All these light gun are just plastic shells so you can fit your Wii remote and Nunchuk into them. There are different kinds of light gun attachment whether they are shaped differently or colored differently. But these 3rd party peripheral manufacturers will add anything to their products to attract potential buyers. This time, PEGA has included a laser pointer underneath the gun.
Honestly, the moment I saw this attachment, I knew there was going to be a lot of faults with this. There are two attachments. One is for the Wii remote and the other is the attachment for the Nunchuk.
The top of the main base has a cover. This allows you to insert the Wii Remote control and secure it in place. The tabs that keeps this cover secure feels so cheap and flimsy. Every time I open it or close it, I'm afraid that I may break it. On both sides of the gun is a small opening. This allows you to put the Nunchuk cable through so you can connect to the Wii Remote. So if you're a lefty, you'll have the cable coming out from the right side and if you're a righty, you'll have to cable coming out from the left side.
The front bottom of the gun houses a laser pointer. Yes, the same laser pointer that you use for presentations or annoying people. Underneath the laser is a battery compartment. This battery compartment houses two (2) AAA batteries to power the laser pointer. The trigger itself though feels sturdy and reaches the B button on the Wii Remote. I personally wished it was close to the B button so I dont have to pull so far. Underneath the trigger is a small button. Pressing this button will turn on the laser pointer. The laser pointer fails horribly. It works..as in it points but not where you would think it would point. Instead of pointing straight, its pointed way off to the right. If you're sitting fairly away from the screen, the pointer will be pointed to the right of you. The further away you are, the more way off it will be. See attached images for picture of what I mean.
The Nunchuk attachment holder was poorly constructed as well. The Nunchuk holder is detachable but when its on the base, its not held securely or clipped in place. So you can easily slide it off. This is bad if you're in an intense gun battle and moving your hands around. When the Nunchuk holder is on the base, you are allowed to adjust the position of it by pushing it up. This only works when you hold the gun below your waist but even this feels uncomfortable. If it adjusted down than it would of been better. If you have your right hand on the trigger and your left hand on the Nunchuk, your left hand will be touching your right wrist.
Conclusion : Overall, the Wii 5-in-1 Laser Pointer Gun is one light gun shell you do not want to bother with. The only good things about the accessory is the laser pointer. It actually works and it feels comfortable, if you hold the gun on the left hand and Nunchuk on your right. You can also detach the Nunchuk holder and just hold the Nunchuk controller in your hands. Everything about the 5-in-1 Laser Pointer Gun is poorly constructed.
Images via comments ...by Published on February 2nd, 2011 12:20- Categories:
- Nintendo Wii News,
- DCEmu Reviews
WiiKey Modchip (DMS/D2A/D2B)
Manufacturer: WiiKey
Site: Buy from Mod-Chip
Price: $30.00-$40.00
Overview : The amazing WiiKey Mod Chip for the Nintendo Wii has arrived! The WiiKey is possibly the easiest modchip to install on any system. A quicksolder pattern on the PCB board removes the need for wires. All you need to do us solder onto the designated parts and the installation is complete.
Not only is the WiiKey easy to install, but this ModChip also has amazing features including Stealth Mode, the ability to play both WII and Gamecube backups, GameCube homebrew and imports. The WiiKey also has an optional LED to let you know when the Mod Chip is ON or OFF.
Features :
- Direct boot of wii backups
- Direct boot of GC backups
- Direct boot of homebrew in GC mode
- Supports all currently available console/drive versions
- Supports D2B chipsets
- Sophisticated (true) update mechanism via DVD (future proof, expect cool features to come)
- Direct boot of different NTSC region Wii games/backups on US and JAP consoles
- Partial support for NTSC region Wii games/backups on PAL consoles
- Boots different region GC games/backups (partially without swapping)
- Supports multi-disc games for BOTH Wii and Gamecube
- Supports DVD-R / true DVD+R and +RW support (no bitsetting required!)
- Improved readsettings for recordable media
- Built-in audio fix
- Supports fullsize 4GB discs for gamecube homebrew
- Stealth mode
- 512 byte EEPROM to store configuration
- Quicksolder interface - no wires required
- Unique disc backup application via sdcard
- Compact design, best quality components, rock solid high speed controller
- Professional ESD packing
- Recovery mode - Can recover from a bad flash
Quality/Usability : WiiKey is probably one of the most well known modchips for the Wii. Its so popular that there is even a clone of it. To prevent confusion, WiiKey tried to think of ways to inform buyers that what they are buying is legit and the real deal. Their solution was a hologram sticker. But this didnt stop some buyers as the clones also worked the same as the real WiiKey.
This review is based on a North American (NTSC-US) Wii. All games tested during this review, we own the original games. This modchip is only compatible with Wii's that have a DMS, D2A or D2B chipset. This will NOT work on a D2C chipset.
Installation : You can find installation manual at WiiKey's Resource page. The Resource page also includes setup discs, recovery disc and the much anticipated firmware update disc which I will get to later.
In order to install the CycloWiz onto your Wii, you must take it apart. Here is a tutorial on how to dismantle your Wii. You can also find other tutorials or even videos on the web.
Like all other modchips that requiring soldering, you must dismantle the Wii. The WiiKey also allows you to either install via quick solder or wire method (the latter method is preferred as you can remove the chip easily). Once you have dismantled the Wii, you must locate the points outlined in their installation manual. These points are where you will connect the soldering between the Wii and the WiiKey. When soldering, you must remember to stay within the points and not to use too much solder or you may risk shorting out the chip as well as the Wii.
After installing the WiiKey, you must run the WiiKey configuration disc which can be download from WiiKey.
Wii Compatibility : After running the configuration disc, its time to test out games. With some modchips that we reviewed, there were some games that gave the DRE (Disc Read Error), but taking that same disc and trying it on the WiiKey worked and booted up perfectly. But there were some that didnt work.
Homebrew Compatibility : Unfortunately, I wasnt able to try the homebrew out.
Conclusion : Overall, WiiKey modchip came through and worked. The ability to load games had a higher success rate than majority of the Wii modchips on the market. Not to mention, its one of, if not the smallest Wii modchip on the market!
1.9b Firmware Upgrade Disc
Now, remember when I talked about the WiiKey update disc? Well, WiiKey was suppose to release this upgrade a long long long time ago but kept delaying it. They would give a release date and would delay it for whatever reason. This would annoy and piss of WiiKey users and even other gaming sites for the lack of actually following through on their word and releasing. Some speculated that WiiKey was a flake or lying. Some even thought they were trying to combat the clones and trying to figure out how to get the upgrade disc to only work on genuine chips and possibly brick Wii's that have clones installed..but of course, all this was a rumor.
There was a leak of the supposed upgrade disc but it was a beta. Eventually, after further testing, WiiKey decided to make it an official release as it was stable enough and worked as it should. The following is what was added to 1.9b
- audiofix fixed
- dual layer support (no bitsetting required)
- improved
by Published on February 2nd, 2011 12:20- Categories:
- Nintendo Wii News,
- DCEmu Reviews
The Shaft Wii Arcade Style Joystick
Manufacturer: Overline Gaming
Site: Buy from Overline Gaming / Buy from Amazon
Price: $39.95
Overview : Designed by gamers, for the ultimate gameplay experience, The Shaft for Nintendo Wii is the ONLY Arcade Style Joystick that works with both digital and analog games. The Shaft, our classic arcade-style joystick brings a new dimension of game play to the Nintendo Wii Virtual Console. The Shaft will work with all of the Virtual Console games for NES, SNES, N64, Genesis, TurboGrafix16, and Wii titles that support the Classic Controller.
Test your arcade fighting skills in digital controlled games like Super Street Fighter 2, or test your racing skills in analog controlled games like Super Mario Kart. The Shaft is also compatible with GameCube and Wii titles that support the Classic Controller, giving you the arcade advantage in these games including the recent hit: Super Smash Bros Brawl.
Turbo Mode is available to give players a unique advantage in those classic hard-to-beat games! Each button can be individually programmed to turbo for the most customized gameplay experience available. The Shaft is extremely durable with a high-impact polycarbonate case and a steel joystick core. The Shaft has a classic arcade feel and measures 11 inches x 6 inches.
Features
- A Customizable Turbo Function allows you to program individual buttons to be Turbo while leaving others to work as normal.
- Full 360 Degree range of motion that works with both digital and analog stick games.
- 8 Locking points for Awesome response in Fighting Games.
- 10-Year Warranty.
Quality/Usability : The Shaft Wii Arcade Style Joystick first made headlines back in late 2007. Since than, it has been flying under the radar with no release news. Upon emailing Overline Gaming in regards to availability of product, it wasnt released yet even though it was a couple months since its scheduled release. But alas, its finally available!
Nintendo's Virtual Console games are growing everyday and those gamers who want to relive their childhood of sitting in front of an arcade cabinet and constantly feeding the machine with quarters would like an arcade stick to simulate that feeling. Overline Gaming hopes to fulfill those dreams by releasing The Shaft.
The Shaft tries to replicate the arcade cabinet feel by putting a round ball on top of a stick with six large buttons. Top three buttons are Y, X and L, while the bottom three buttons are B, A and R. The middle also has three buttons; TURBO, SELECT/Z and START. However, this arrangement is uncomfortable if you want to play some Wii games. Accessing the Z button feels awkward and out of place.
Unlike the Wiimote, Classic Controller or Nunchuk, The Shaft is not wireless nor does it connect directly to the Wiimote like the Classic Controller or Nunchuk. Instead, its a wired controller and connects to the Gamecube controller port on top of the Wii. This is great since you dont have to worry about batteries dying on your in the middle of gameplay but you need to sit near the Nintendo Wii. The cord on The Shaft is approximately 6 feet long. I know some gamers have their Wii on top of a shelf so some will need to sit right under the TV.
Having played Super Smash Bros Brawl, the Z button felt really out of place. Having to try and play SSBB with the awkward button arrangement on The Shaft, I can feel that the stick felt rather cheap. The quality of the stick was not on par to that of Hori's Fighting Stick. Arcade sticks always have that clicky feel but The Shaft doesnt even have that. The buttons feels unresponsive and doesnt give that arcade joystick feel. But I was able to set turbo to each individual button.
Conclusion : Overall, the The Shaft Wii Arcade Style Joystick is barely at the level of an arcade stick. The short cord with the use of Gamecube plug, awkward placement of the Z button and poor unresponsive buttons didnt help The Shaft. The price of $39.95 is overpriced for the quality of The Shaft. If it didnt feel so cheap, better placement of buttons, two additional buttons or even using HAPP or similar quality joystick buttons, this may be worth it.
Images via commentsby Published on February 2nd, 2011 12:20- Categories:
- Nintendo Wii News,
- DCEmu Reviews
D2Pro Wii Modchip
Manufacturer: WiiKey
Site: Buy from ConsoleSource
Price: $39.95
Overview : Sporting a high speed Actel FPGA running at 350 MHz, this chip is capable of what is known as Intelligent Code Modification(ICM). With ICM this device monitors the Wii's internal communication and patches it when necessary to enable you to unlock the Wii's full potential.
The D2Pro installs with only 15 wires instead of the 30+ wires required by previous Wii Mod Chips. In addition to a simplified installation the D2Pro is fully software upgradeable to ensure future compatibility.
Features :
- Compatible with DVD+-R, DVD+-RW and Dual-layer DVD (movies and GCOS)
- Direct boot of Wii original and backup games from the same region
- Direct boot of Gamecube original and backup games from the same region
- Direct boot of different NTSC region Wii and GC games on USA and JAP consoles
- Partial region free support on Wii and GC original and backup games with different videomode (ie PAL<->USA, JAPAN)
- Improved read settings for recordable media
- Supports running GC games at Wii disk speed
- GC Audiostreaming Fix
- Supports full-size DVD and DVD9 discs for GC homebrew
- Supports GC multigame discs
- Supports Wii and GC multidisc games
- Does not modify RAM, making it virtually undetectable for the Wii
- Full command set emulation
Quality/Usability : The D2Pro is Team WiiKey's third mochip. After releasing WiiKey for DMS, D2A and D2B chipsets, they released D2Ckey for the much harder to mod D2C chipset which required 31 wires. Soon after Infectus released their Argon, WiiKey released the D2Pro which only required less than half of the amount of wires as D2Ckey (12-15 wires).
Unlike traditional modchips, D2Pro is upgradeable through an external programmer also known as D2prog. No more having burning discs just to upgrade. As Argon is the first to have less wires for D2C and uses an external programmer, D2Pro follows it. Its normal as thats how it always is whether it be in the gaming industry or any of your household products.
D2Pro comes in a small anti-static bag. For a limited time offer, if you order from ConsoleSource, it comes with a free Tri-Wing screwdriver. If you already have one, no biggie..you'll just have a spare. But if you dont already have one, you'll need this. As mentioned above, you'll need an external programmer to update the D2Pro for when WiiKey releases any new updates. Unfortunately, its not included. Its not even sold on ConsoleSource. Some other sites either include the external programmer or sell it separately.
The D2Pro is the same size as the D2Ckey. This time, there its in a different colored PCB board (red), has a ribbon cable clasp and uses a Actel chip.
As its still hard to find a Nintendo Wii on store shelves, a friend volunteered his Nintendo Wii that he was lucky enough to find in a store. As I'm not as technical when it comes to soldering, I had a friend of ours who works on electronics for a living, help perform this risky mod. REMEMBER, this is only for the experienced and not the weak at heart (noobs). But if you have the experience or want to try it out, you can download the latest diagrams on D2Pro's website.
You can find instructions on how to dismantle/disassemble your Nintendo Wii by doing a Google search. There are numerous text guides and even videos.
Wii Compatibility : Having tested a couple of Nintendo GameCube and Nintendo Wii games, I must say, D2Pro performed very well. We tried both original and backups for the hell of it. D2Pro loaded and booted all games without a problem. We tried Ikaruga which needed a audiosteam fix and it had no problem loading both game and sound. We did not have problems playing with any region free games.
Homebrew Compatibility : Having tried to boot GCOS and a few emulators, D2Pro had no problem running them.
Conclusion : Overall, the D2Pro Wii Modchip worked just like its predecessor, D2Ckey but with less wires. When D2Pro was first released, the external programmer (D2prog) was not included or released at the same time. In order to upgrade the D2Pro, you'll need this external adapter which is available now. If you're going to upgrade, you'll also have to reopen your Nintendo Wii in order to install the ribbon cable. From what I can tell, the ribbon cable is not included with the D2prog so you'll either have to find one on your own or hope that a retailer will include it.
Team WiiKey has also released a new D2Pro that can be installed with only 9 wires but we did the normal 15 wire install. If you dont want to buy a whole new D2Pro, you can purchase a SPI flash update module which is soldered onto the corner of the D2Pro.
Those looking for a cleaner and easier installation may want to take a look at the Wii-Clip.
Please note that none of the "upgrade" products listed in this site are endorsed by Nintendo, Sony and/or Microsoft. DCEmu Reviews and DCEmu Network does not condone piracy. The primary functions of a "modchip" and/or "flashcart" are to allow you to play imported games and homebrew software that you legally own or simply just for experimenting with hardware. We in no way endorse piracy, and encourage all users to do the right thing and support the developers/manufacturers that support them. We do not take any responsibilities for any use outside of these parameters or where the use of such a device is illegal.
Images via commentsby Published on February 2nd, 2011 12:20- Categories:
- Nintendo Wii News,
- DCEmu Reviews
Wii-Clip Easy Install Modchip Kit
Manufacturer: Wii-Clip
Site: Buy from Shop.01Media / other distributors
Price: $25.00-$30.00
Overview : The Next Generation Universal WII CHIP Install Tooling!
Features :
- Support for full series WII CHIP, included WIIKEY , D2CKEY , D2CPRO , ARGON , D2PRO, WASABI chips, very high install efficiency, you can finish most jobs in 2 minutes.
- Very easy to install. You just need to solder the chip to the 1:1 points. Then push it cover over the D2C chipset on the drive, plug and play, even don't need the extra wires for VCC and GND , 100% ZERO wires need!
- Very easy to disable the WII chip, just remove (pull out) the WII-CLIP from the WII motherboard, no need to unsolder anymore. This process will allow you return your WII to its stock configuration, can give back you one 100% original WII immediately.
- Next generation HIGH precision design, 100% working perfect and stable.
- Use the special IC encapsulation material, whole wii-clip working like a small radiator, without any overheating issue. We have keep it run over 720 hours to confirm this point.
Quality/Usability : Let me start off by saying that I wont be reviewing any specific chips in this review. This is solely based on Wii-Clip and what it can do.
So not everyone is a modder or even handy with their hands or just plain scared to do it themselves. I fall under all three departments. I'm not ashamed to admit it. What Wii-Clip aims to do is not only help those who are scared or inexperienced, but to make installation a lot easier even for the pros.
When modding a Nintendo Wii, the most scariest party is damaging to motherboard. One mistake and it can fry your Nintendo Wii dead! With the Wii-Clip, you dont have to worry about causing damage to your Nintendo Wii. All you do is snap the Wii-Clip over the Nintendo Wii's chipset and you're done! No more soldering wires onto the Nintendo Wii. You dont even have to use wires for the modchips.
There are different Wii-Clips available for each modchip. You have WiiKey, D2Ckey, D2Pro, Argon, Wasabi, even open source such as OpenWii, Wiinja, WiiFree and many more. As new modchips become available or even upgraded ones, Wii-Clip will have one.
As I mentioned above, I'm not handy when it comes to soldering or modifying electronics. But I was able to do it. Of course, I borrowed a friends soldering iron and had an old PC motherboard laying around. Once I felt comfortable and confident enough, I dove right in. Simply line up your modchip to the Wii-Clip and solder the points together. No more need for wires or soldering to your Nintendo Wii. However, to ensure that the modchip will line up with the Wii-Clip, I first soldered on one corner. Once that was soldered, I soldered a corner opposite from my first spot. My method was similar to that of tightening lug nuts on a car tire. With this method, if I so happen to move the Wii-Clip or modchip accidently, it wont be misaligned.
Once all the points are soldered on the modchip and Wii-Clip, it was now time to install it onto the chipset on the Nintendo Wii. But before doing so, you must take the "PROTECT LABEL" sticker and place it under the modchip. This prevents any points on the modchip from touching the Nintendo Wii motherboard. Now take the Wii-Clip, place it over the chipset and push down. Some down force will be needed to make sure that the Wii-Clip is tightly in place and will not fall off. At first, I felt scared because the Wii board was bending but it held up and is sturdy. Once in place, take the decorative Mario looking background paper. Not only is it used for packaging but its also used to protect the modchip from touching the Nintendo Wii. Just rip off the flap in the middle and fit the Wii-Clip through the opening.
As stated above, the Nintendo Wii was only disassembled and none of the components were soldered or tampered with. This keeps the Nintendo Wii's warranty still intact if a problem ever arises. Even if you no longer wanted the modchip, there is no damage to the Nintendo Wii.
Before closing up the Nintendo Wii and to ensure that the Wii-Clip worked, I turned on the Nintendo Wii and it worked. Inserted both an original Wii game and a backup and both worked flawlessly. Once I knew it was working, I closed everything back up and tested the games again and experienced no problems.
When removing the Wii-Clip, it was a bit tough to remove. Wii-Clip suggested using a sharp object but I used a small flat-head screwdriver. They also mentioned to pry from the corners only and from all 4 sides.
Conclusion : Overall, the Wii-Clip Easy Install Modchip Kit is probably the most easiest and safest method of installing a modchip. No damage is done to the Nintendo Wii. Even if you messed up the soldering, its on the modchip and Wii-Clip. If for whatever reason you totally screwed it up and no longer works, you only have to pay for the chip and Wii-Clip. Its a lot better than having to hunt down for a Nintendo Wii and spending $250USD ...by Published on February 2nd, 2011 12:20- Categories:
- Nintendo Wii News,
- DCEmu Reviews
Datel Wii FreeLoader
Manufacturer: Datel
Site: Buy from Vanguard Tech (US) / Buy from Vanguard Tech (JAP) / Buy from Vanguard Tech (PAL)
Price: £11.99
Overview : This is the one you've all been waiting for! Wii FreeLoader lets you play ANY region of Wii game on a your Nintendo Wii! At last, you can import games from other territories and play them on your Wii…
Videogamers the world over get really frustrated when games are released in other territories long before they reach the shops in their home country, if they ever get released at all. You want to play that blockbuster survival horror which is out in Japan three months before it hits the shelves elsewhere. What about the soccer or F1 sim which only gets a European release or a gridiron football or NBL baseball game that's never released outside the States? Or maybe you bought an imported Wii because you wanted to get it early, and you now want to play games from your own region without buying a second machine. Well, now you can. With Wii FreeLoader, you can play ANY region of game on your Wii!
Wii FreeLoader is really easy to use. Simply insert your FreeLoader disc and load it in the usual way. When the drive stops, eject the Wii FreeLoader disc and insert the game, which then loads and plays just like it would on its own region of Wii. It's as simple as that!
Wii FreeLoader is 100% unofficial, and requires no modifications to your console. As well as letting you play Wii games from all regions, Wii FreeLoader also works with some imported GameCube games when played on your Wii. It won't work in a GameCube console, though – for that, you need FreeLoader for GameCube.
Features :
- Play ANY region of Wii™ or GameCube™ game on your Wii™.
- Easy to use.
- No console modification required.
- Doesn't invalidate warranty.
- Play games never released in your region.
- Play local games on your imported console.
- Suitable ONLY for US/JAP/EUR Version Wii™ consoles - If you have EUR Wii, you need EUR version. If you have JAP Wii, you need JAP version and if you have US Wii, you need US version.
- 100% unofficial.
- Might not work with all games or various firmware versions. Usage at own risk!
Quality/Usability : I know there are a lot of impatient gamers reading this review. There are probably some that just cant wait and have bought consoles or games that have came out in a different country first and a couple months later in their own region. Sometimes, there are situations where you cant even get it in your own country and the only way is to import the game or buy a whole new system from a different region.
We all know Japan and its gamers are usually the first to get game releases and all those quirky games. Once released in the land of the rising sun, its usually released in our own region within a couple months or sometimes never even seeing a release. Nintendo DS, Sony PSP, PS3 and Microsoft Xbox 360 are all (or majority) region free when it comes to games but there is one system that is region locked preventing you from playing games from other regions. That is the Nintendo Wii.
Sony prevented online importers from selling PSPs to different regions due to sale purposes. Region locks on systems is set up pretty much for the same reason. If gamers buy games from different regions, when that game finally comes out in their region, there will be no sale because the gamer already owns the import. I solely understand the reason for region locks but at the same time, there are games that never see light in other countries and true gamers want to play that specific game but cant due to region lock on their console.
Datel is the first to release a disk that allows you to play import games on your Nintendo Wii without voiding your warranty or opening the Nintendo. The FreeLoader comes in a standard sized DVD case. Inside are instructions and the FreeLoader disc which is the same size as GameCube discs.
Getting it setup to play your import game is very simple. You can either be in the Main Menu or in the Disc Channel. Insert FreeLoader into the Nintendo Wii. WHAT?! What is happening to my Wii? Don't worry. Nothing harmful is being done to your Nintendo Wii. It looks as if half of the right screen was stuck and stretched. Kind of like a trail or a smudge. Your screen will flash twice. This is the FreeLoader working its magic. Eject the FreeLoader and swap it with the import game you want to play. TA-DA! It works! *Not all import games will work with the Datel FreeLoader.
Although the Datel WiI FreeLoader does not mention it, but it is capable of playing some of your GameCube imports. I was only able to try one game and it was Luigi's Mansion. I can't believe I still have this game in my library.
Conclusion : Overall, the Datel Wii FreeLoader works great at loading imports but for how long? No one knows. Nintendo can release an updated firmware for the Nintendo Wii and with that one update, it can make the Datel Wii FreeLoader useless. So you'll end up with a useless coaster and a bunch of imported games that you can no longer play unless you mod your Nintendo Wii. As of this review, FreeLoader has been out a couple months and no problems yet. Not all imports will work but majority do.
Please note that none of the "upgrade" products listed in this site are endorsed by Nintendo, Sony and/or Microsoft. DCEmu Reviews and DCEmu Network does not condone piracy. The primary functions of a "modchip" and/or "flashcart" are to allow you to play imported games and homebrew software that you legally own or simply just for experimenting with hardware. We in no way endorse piracy, and encourage all users to do the right thing and support the developers/manufacturers that support them. We do not take any responsibilities for any use outside of these parameters or where the use of such a device is illegal.
Images via commentsby Published on February 2nd, 2011 12:20- Categories:
- Nintendo Wii News,
- DCEmu Reviews
Wii Balance Board Protective Skin
Manufacturer: Talismoon
Site: Buy from Divineo US (white) / Buy from Divineo US (pink) / Buy from Divineo China (white) / Buy from Divineo China (pink)
Price: $17.49
Overview : Keep your Wii Balance Board clean while improving your grip and even adding style with Talismoon protective soft skin. Available in several colors, it is the perfect companion to your balance board.
Quality/Usability : When there is an accessory such as the Balance Board, accessories for it is not far behind. When the Wii was first released, there were reports of peoples TVs being smashed by the Wiimote either by flying out of peoples hands or the wrist strap broke. To prevent and to protect your Wii Balance Board, Talismoon has released a rubber silicone skin.
As mentioned above, the protective soft skin is made of silicone rubber. Not only is it durable but it is also washable. The Protective Skin is like any other silicone skin on the market whether it be for your gaming controllers, handheld systems or cellphones. Simply slide it over your device and that is it. The skin covers the entire top of the balance board and wraps it self to the bottom of the board.
The skin gives you easy access to the button on the balance board as well as battery pack. On the top of the skin, there are two footprints. These are outlined in rubber dimples. This gives you traction and grip when using the Balance Board.
Conclusion : Overall, the Wii Balance Board Protective Skin is a nice product. Nothing special about it. Its like a normal rubber silicone skin. You can choose from two colors; white and pink. White can show signs of dirt easily. It would be nice if there were other colors to choose from. Although the dimples on the top gives you grip, is soft and where to place your feet, it may not work well for those with sensitive feet or just dont like anything touching their feet. I would of preferred a footprint but with grooves or something.
Images via commentsby Published on February 2nd, 2011 12:20- Categories:
- Nintendo Wii News,
- DCEmu Reviews
Wii WiiID Wiimote Battery Cover Kit
Manufacturer: Talismoon
Site: Buy from Divineo China
Price: $7.95
Overview : The Wiimote is a smart device, allowing you to carry your "Mii" on the go, and use it at a friends house. But, all wiimotes look the same. Enter the wiiID. The WiiID includes a custom battery cover with a clear window in it, and 8 different templates that you can put behind the window so you can easily tell your wiimote apart from everyone else's.
The WiiID is practical and entertaining at the same time, as you can put funny pictures inside your wiimote (like rusty gears, or an ear of corn) making your wiimote unique and fun.
Of course, you can also make your own template simply by printing your favoriate photo on your printer, and cutting it to the appropriate size.
Let your wiimote join the party, with the wiiID.
Included:- 1 replacement battery cover
- 20 ready to use templates
To distinguish which controller belongs to who, some paint them, some put stickers on them, some put different colored silicone skins or even a dot of red nail polish like on turtles. Ok, maybe not the last part.
Talismoon has released Wii-ID Wiimote Battery Cover Kit. This is a battery cover but whats different is the clear screen. This allows you to insert your own design and is displayed right on the battery cover. The battery cover has a bit of a glossy look to it. At the bottom, instead of a Nintendo logo, it has a Talismoon logo.
Included are 20 ready to use designs but I counted 19. The included designs is nothing fancy and looks a little cheesy to me. Also included is a plastic template. This allows you to print out your design, use the template to trace the size and cut it. The size of the design/cut is 1.5" (width) x 3.25" (height). Although it gives you a plastic template to cut it to size, it doesnt include anything for when you design it. A Photoshop file should at least be hosted or something so you can design around that instead of designing it from scratch and having to play around with size.
Conclusion : Overall, the Wii Wii-ID Wiimote Battery Cover Kit is a nice idea when it comes to customization and/or knowing which Wiimote belongs to who but it falls short in some areas. The cover is glossy and the plastic clear screen looks like it can scratch easily. It comes with a plastic template that lets you trace the size but nothing is provided for when you design it. No size, no template, nothing. So if you're designing, you'll have to set it up yourself. Once you set up the correct size, you'll have to find out where the design becomes visible and where it is covered by the battery door.
If Talismoon is reading this, I suggest releasing a template file that allows people to just import their design, adjust accordingly and print. Who wants to buy a product that makes you do extra work by having to play around configuring your own template just to print your own design? I dont.
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