In an interview with MTV, Bill Gates took the opportunity to play down Nintendo's innovative controller.

"There's room for innovation here, but moving that controller around — it's something that's not mainstream for most games," he said.

Back in 2000, Microsoft released the Sidewinder Freestyle Pro which allowed for 3-D movement. Gates referred to Microsoft's attempt at this style of controller by saying, "It's tough because sometimes you move the controller, and you don't [mean] to fly into the ground. You just want to put the controller down. People aren't that good at totally standing still. Even pilots actually sit in a chair when they do their flying. So there's a lot to be learned about these controllers."

Both the Wii Remote and Nunchuk controllers include a three-axis motion sensor. The Wii Remote also includes a speaker, a microphone, a rumble feature and an expansion port, the controller can be used as a pointer within 5 meters of the screen.

The fact that Wii will involve more than sitting on a sofa twiddling your thumbs will surely a be a put off to those lazy gamers, but it could be the best way to get fit in the 21st century whilst still indulging in your favourite hobby.