Tomb Raider: Underworld

Just like with Anniversary, the Wii version of Underworld was developed separately from the main Xbox 360, PS3, and PC release by Buzz Monkey Software, with its own codebase adapted to the weaker hardware of the Nintendo console. The graphics engine had to be completely reworked, so the more open locations of the main version were simplified on Wii into more enclosed corridors, with fewer enemies on screen at once and less detailed environments.

The key difference again lies in the controls – the Wii Remote is used for aiming while shooting and for performing contextual combat strikes via gestures, while climbing along ledges and jumping across gaps respond to tilting the controller and hand movement. Buzz Monkey also added its own tutorial sections explaining the gesture controls, which are completely absent from other versions. The story and main plotline remain the same as on other platforms, but the pace of play is noticeably slower and less fluid than on consoles with a classic gamepad, due to the need to gesture.

Because of Wii's weaker performance, the number of simultaneously rendered effects, such as dynamic water or destructible environmental elements – which were among the key selling points of the Xbox 360 version – was reduced. Motorcycle control during chase sequences was simplified to basic steering via controller gestures instead of full analog control. Buzz Monkey focused mainly on preserving the main storyline and key puzzles, even at the cost of trimming side collectible tasks and some optional areas to explore. Loading screens between individual locations are also somewhat longer than on more powerful consoles, which slightly breaks up the game's pacing compared to the Xbox 360 version, where the world is more interconnected and transitions are smoother.

Why play it: A choice for Wii owners who want to control combat finishers and climbing with body movement instead of buttons – it's a different physical experience of the same story found on other platforms.