Team Fremont.com-Game Wave Console Review

Game Wave Console

This fall, while the masses are lining up in droves for the launch of Sony's PlayStation 3 and the Nintendo Wii, another console is quietly trying to earn a spot under the television set.

Released by Zapit Games, the Game Wave takes the idea of casual gaming and games for the masses to another level. Consisting of board/card games, trivia titles, and simple puzzle games, the Game Wave's library (currently consisting of around a dozen titles) promises short, simple games that are family-friendly and "free of violence, sexuality and offensive language." That means while you won't find the latest 3D rendered, big-budget gaming blockbuster on the Game Wave, you also won't find many of the things that turn off non-gamers.

Ringing in at around a hundred bucks, the Game Wave comes nicely stocked with four remote controls and batteries, and is capable of accomodating up to six players (extra two remotes purchased separately). Also bundled with the unit is a free trivia game titled "4 Degrees Vol. 1", boasting "over 25 hours of no repeat play." And finally, the bundle includes a case for the remotes that fits nicely next to the Game Wave unit.

Here's a shot of the Game Wave with the controller case sitting next to it:

When separated, the front of the console looks like this:

And here's a shot of the back of the unit:

Here we have a picture of the Game Wave controllers, complete with the patented Team Fremont shot glass comparison:

Setting up the remotes is a snap. At the game's menu screen, simply select the A, B, C, or D button on the top of the color coded remote and you're in business.

But perhaps its biggest selling point is the fact that the Game Wave also works nicely as a spare DVD player. If mom or dad aren't completely sold on buying a casual game console but do need an extra DVD player for the house, this function could be the key to the sale.

We took the Game Wave unit for a test drive and found it to be a great system for groups. The three games we played (Rewind 2005, Zap 21, and 4 Degrees Vol. 1) were all perfect casual party games. What we found most successful was that, unlike boardgames, these games could be played almost passively by participants. If you choose to skip a round of play, no problem. You simply don't get points for that round. If you're familiar with the trivia games and touch screen titles found in sports bars around the country, you'll know exactly what to expect here.

Since the console runs for around $100, and the games are under $30, you'll have to decide if the price is right for you. In the end, while the Game Wave most likely won't compete for the hardcore gamer's dollar, it does make a nice party system on game day and it could help alleviate those painful family get-togethers. I know I plan on busting out the Game Wave this Christmas.

The Game Wave is available at Toys R' Us, Mastermind Toys, Nextpower USA, and at the official site www.PlayGameWave.com.

For more on the Game Wave console, check out the 11/12/2006 episode of our podcast, Team Fremont Live!

Article By: John