Bonus features are also plentiful. Because Wii is fully compatible with GameCube games, nostalgic fare like Super Nintendo, Sega Genesis, and ­TurboGrafx-16 titles may be downloaded and enjoyed on demand too. Perpetual broadband connectivity is another highlight, with systems capable of automatically retrieving extras such as additional characters and stages while you sleep. Positional audio capabilities only add further atmospheric depth, letting you track an arrow’s progress from the draw of a bowstring until it thuds resoundingly into an enemy’s chest.

A few sample titles worth drooling over: Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: The Crystal Bearers, Rayman: ­Raving Rabbids, and Super Monkey Ball: ­Banana Blitz. So start practicing your golf swing or karate chop now (and start socking away cash to replace that soon-to-be-shattered coffee table). Wii, $250, Best Buy, (888) 237-8289, www.bestbuy.com