We Cheer (Wii)

WE CHEER is a rhythm and movement matching game using cheerleading and dance moves. The player holds two remotes in their hands and follow stars that move along arrowed trace lines on the screen indicating movements to be made. If the movements made are in synch with the trace lines, text such as "COOL" for good or "NOT THAT WAY" for incorrect movements will flash across the top of the screen. The game starts off with creating a file and selecting a named avatar from a selection of five and going through the tutorial before you get to the main screen that allows you to slect game modes and customize your squad's hair, skintone, and outfits. Of the five preset characters, one had dark skin, one had a medium skin tone, and the pink-haired one was named Ai.

The game uses the Wii remotes without the nunchucks. Solo play is done with two remotes; and multiplayer can accomodate up to four players with each using a single remote. Game modes include a Practice mode to learn the basic moves; Championship which is the "career" mode where you can play on different stages and unlock new costumes and new squad members; Cheer-off which is competitive against up to four players; and the Workout mode which shows Calorie burn instead of points won for matching movements.

The game is fast-paced and requires good coordination and rhythm to keep up with the movements, so this isn't a game for everyone. Instructions are text-based and there is no voice-over explaining the game, so it isn't appropriate for young girls. The instructor is a woman with an exaggerated cartoon figure who addresses the player by the avatar's name, striking sexy poses as instructions are imparted, punctuated with squeals, giggles, and "ohs."

Players will definitely get an aerobic workout playing this game, but the fast pace is unforgiving . The moves are more dance moves than cheerleading moves, and the game starts off with footwork as well. Despite the dubious stereotyping found in some of the cartoon characters and the constant annoying squeals, this game can be fun and challenging for those familiar with cheerleading.