The Red Wii Console – A Limited Edition Release
The red Nintendo Wii console was released in November 2010 exclusively in Australia and New Zealand, as part of a special 25th anniversary bundle celebrating Super Mario Bros. This was over 4 years after the launch of the original white Wii in 2006. The red edition was produced in very limited quantities before being discontinued.
The Wildly Successful Launch of the Original Wii
When the Nintendo Wii launched in November 2006, it became an instant phenomenon that kickstarted a new era of motion controlled gaming.
The console came bundled with Wii Sports, the groundbreaking title that introduced motion controls using the Wii Remote. It allowed gamers to swing, throw and move as they played everything from tennis to bowling on their TV screens.
In the first quarter of 2008 alone, Nintendo sold over 6 million Wiis globally. By 2012, the console had sold 97.18 million units – surpassing even the Nintendo DS handheld to become Nintendo‘s most successful home console ever.
| Year | Global Wii Sales |
|---|---|
| 2007 | 17.53 million |
| 2008 | 28.75 million |
| 2009 | 20.13 million |
| 2010 | 15.08 million |
| 2011 | 9.84 million |
| 2012 | 5.1 million |
The innovative technology, family-friendly games and approachable price point of $249 made the Wii a runaway success enjoyed by both casual and hardcore gamers. It was consistently sold out in stores across the world in the first few months after launch.
Securing your own Wii in time for the 2006 holiday season became notoriously difficult – many shoppers resorted to waiting in unusually long lines or buying marked up units on auction sites.
The Allure of Limited Edition Consoles
Part of the hype surrounding each new generation of video game consoles is owning a limited edition color or design that stands out from the crowd. This trend started as early as the N64 era with special edition consoles and translucent controllers.
While the original white was by far the most common, Nintendo produced Wii consoles in hues like black, silver and red over the years. However they were sold in much smaller numbers compared to the widely available white model.
Limited runs generate demand by making these special editions seem more exclusive, unique and valuable to fans and collectors. Having a console that looks unlike what most other players own can be a badge of honor amongst dedicated gamers.
Celebrating a Milestone – 25 Years of Super Mario
The red Nintendo Wii bundle was released in November 2010 exclusively for the Australian and New Zealand markets. It was produced in celebration of Super Mario Bros‘ upcoming 25th anniversary the following year, one of Nintendo‘s most beloved and legendary franchises.
This special pack was branded the ‘Super Mario Bros 25th Anniversary Edition‘ and contained:
- A vibrant glossy red Wii console and WiiMote controller
- A red Wii MotionPlus attachment and Wii Wheel
- New Super Mario Bros. Wii and Wii Sports games
- Super Mario Galaxy Original Soundtrack CD
Bundling Mario‘s latest 3D platforming adventure along with a greatest hits compilation of his most iconic themes was the perfect way to mark 25 years of gaming‘s most recognizable icon.
The bundle retailed for AU$298.95 – cheaper than purchasing all items separately. However it was still not an inexpensive proposition for consumers. Coming late in the Wii‘s life cycle, this minority of Australian fans were clearly targeting collectors and franchise enthusiasts.
The Enduring Legacy of the Nintendo Wii
While production slowed in its final years, the Wii ultimately sold over 100 million consoles to become Nintendo‘s best-selling home platform ever. By widening accessibility beyond dedicated gamers, it pioneered motion controls and attracted new demographics of casual or family players.
Over 9 years, the Wii built up an eclectic library over over 1,300 games – ranging from fitness titles, party games using Miis to acclaimed core Nintendo franchises.
Its influence laid the groundwork for new generations of systems focused on innovating play styles through features like the Switch‘s detachable Joy-Cons. Motion focused games live on through spiritual successors such as Nintendo Switch Sports.
And amongst all the standard white boxes, proudly displaying the vibrant red 25th anniversary system serves as a true badge of honor for Australian and Kiwi Nintendo fans.
