Wii Weights: Part Two

From Mike over at Alchemi:

The Wii Weights started like any other dumb idea. After a few drinks and several rounds of Wii Boxing, someone said, “Maybe there should be weights for this thing. Someone should invent those.” A few more drinks and a sloppy drawing in my sketchbook later, it had begun. I am a graphic designer, not a product designer, so this gave me the opportunity to learn a lot about the process. I’m not looking for a quick buck, rather this is a product that I would love to see produced.

There was an overwhelming response to the first prototype, which was of course just a basic wrist weight with a photoshopped Wii logo. This was just a way to test the waters, to see if there would be any response. There were literally thousands of postings with comments ranging from calling the “inventor” a moron, to some excellent constructive criticism, to people ready to pull out their wallets for a pair. This gave me an up close view of the problems with a product like this and how we could improve on the performance and aesthetics.

I can only imagine what the results of my “Wii Sports Experiement” would have been if I wore these.  Not only is it a great idea in regards to increasing a workout, but it would help give Wii boxing a little more realistic element.  Instead of swinging the relatively light Wii-mote/Nunchuk you’ll have to be more patient with your shots because you’ll tire out a lot easier.

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