I’m very aware of the debate between digital and traditional board games, and I’m personally a fan of both. Does it sound like I straddle the fence? Sure, but it’s true. Not only does my family play traditional board games, but we’ve been known to take it to the console as well because it works, just like Fortune Street Wii.
Thanks to Square Enix and Nintendo, Wii Fortune Street is finally reaching the United States. For those who do not know, this is a game that is like Monopoly but with so much more. For example, the boards are never the same — the random factor always leads to a huge replay value. For best results, starting with the tutorial would be a great idea.
This title has all of the polish and shine that most Nintendo games have; the game looks great and features plenty of comic mischief. If you have previously played Square Enix and Nintendo titles, you will even find a few iconic characters, but I will let you find them on your own. Also, you can play the game using your Mii to represent you.
Fortune Street is a game that will have you laughing as you play, because the characters always have something witty and timely to say throughout the game. For example, one particular character noted how they really did not need to give me any more money after landing on my property, which added realism to the board game factor.
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In all, you can play on fifteen different boards, which is like getting fifteen games in one package. Like the real thing, games can last awhile, especially if you play on a larger board. Luckily, whenever it reaches your turn again, you can select the “Save” option to record your progress and return to it at any time.
One thing I really enjoy about playing Fortune Street is the ability to choose whatever direction you want to move your piece. Because of this, there are several different paths to achieving ultimate victory. For example, not only is it important to upgrade your property, but you can also consider the path of forcing your opponent to sell you his property when you land on it. If nothing else, this adds some additional strategy that you wouldn’t find in Monopoly.
Overall, this is an excellent representation of an excellent game, and it shows that even educational games like this, which give off good financial lessons, can bring together a family with plenty of fun. I’m hoping this franchise takes off and sees the concept expanded. This title shows there are many ideas for board games that would fit well as a Wii video game title.