How to Use the Wii Controller

Last Updated: May 3, 2022

So you've got yourself a Wii, congratulations! Now it's time to figure it all out. The Wii Operations Manual will guide you through setting up the various sensor devices and settings you can manipulate. Most of these settings are a matter of personal preference and will not affect game play.

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Once you've set up your Wii, pick which game you're going to play.
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To manipulate the controller on the screen, point the controller to a point on the screen, and a corresponding icon will appear where you are pointing, and you will be able to move it by simply moving the remote, and pointing at different locations on the screen.

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Question

How do we release the ball on the bowling game?

Community Answer

On Wii Sports (2006) and Wii Sports Resort (2009), you would simply flick the Wii remote to release the ball.

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Question

Do I have to have the sensor bar to use the Wii remote?

Community Answer

Yes, the remote needs the sensor bar.

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How do I get a pre-owned Wii control to work on the Wii?

Community Answer

Press the Connect button on the Wii, then press Connect on the controller (the button is typically where the controller's battery is housed).

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Tips

Try thinking carefully about what you're trying to imitate/perform. You may be over exaggerating the motions inadvertently. Small motions may register better than unnecessarily large ones.

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Most games require you shake the controller instead of swinging it.

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The Sensor Bar can be placed above or below your television.

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Warnings

Be sure to wear the attached wristband during any strenuous play to avoid accidental remote tosses.

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If you have a thin wrist strap, you must replace it with a new version of the wrist strap. The reason is that the old version can break easily due to its poor strength. Refer to Nintendo.com to know the old and new version of the wrist strap. When you are on Nintendo.com, go to the customer service section and look for "Important Wrist Strap Information".

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Things You'll Need

Wii
Wii Remote
Wii Remote Jacket (Recommended to protect your Wii Remote from damage and hurting others.)
Wii Nunchuck (Required for a few games. Compatible with others.)
Wii Motion Plus (Required for a few games. However, if your Wii Remote has a "Wii Motion Plus inside" label at the bottom, that means it is built into your Wii Remote and you don't need to buy one!)
Television

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How to Use the Wii Controller

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