By Andrew Liszewski
I’m proud to say that I’ve found a way to play even the most physically demanding of Wii games while slumped on my couch. Even Wii fit is convinced I’m an Olympic-caliber athlete. (Sucker!) But the ME2 handheld game takes a different approach to physical fitness and video games. Before you can play any titles on the device or the accompanying website, you have to accumulate points by carrying the device with you when you’re out walking, jogging or running. The built-in pedometer keeps track of your steps, and points are awarded depending on how long or how far you traveled.
The ME2 connects to your PC via USB, and your points are uploaded to the website allowing you to play around in their 3D interactive world, or download new titles to the handheld device. At first I wondered if this is something kids would really be into, since they’re essentially being rewarded for going outside and playing, but the price slash on eToys from $34.99 to just $17.50 tells me otherwise. And if any kids happen to have one of these but have lost interest in the whole ‘exercise’ ploy, I have two words for you; paint mixer. Head down to your local Home Depot, have one of the employees tape the ME2 to the outside of the paint mixer, and in just a few minutes you’ll have accumulated enough points to last you a couple of months.
