It's been quite some time since Nyko unveiled its Wand accessory for the Nintendo Wii. Other than a being a third-party alternative to the official Wii remote, the Wand boasted TransPort technology that successfully carries button commands through its Nunchuk port. Since its release, Nyko has distributed a few items that take advantage of TransPort, though the Action Pak remains the most compelling of them.
What impressed us most about the Wand was Nyko's ability to trump Nintendo by using new technology to improve upon an existing design. To our surprise, this wouldn't be the only time Nyko beat Nintendo at its own game. The Wand's successor, the Wand+, features MotionPlus built in, so there's no need for a separate accessory.
The end result is a great-performing, comfortable, no-brainer alternative to purchasing a Wii remote in addition to a MotionPlus attachment. Best of all, the Wand+ retails for just $40, which is $20 cheaper than buying the aforementioned items separately.
Nyko hasn't changed much about its product, it seems when comparing the new Wand+ with the Wand. The controllers look exactly the same, though we really liked the new rubberized matte covering that surrounds the Wand+. Its no-slip grip felt great in our hands and really gives the controller a sleek and stylized look. The Wand+'s battery door retains its ribbed texture, too.
