Buying Guide
How to Buy a Motion-Control Home Game Console and Games
This short guide helps you choose a motion-control home game console and its games, focusing on renewed consoles, bundled packages, and individual game discs. Use it to compare offers, avoid common pitfalls, and buy with confidence in Canada.
What to consider before you buy
Condition and warranty are top priorities. Renewed units vary: some list a 90-day certified refurbished guarantee while others are seller renewed. Check the stated warranty length and return policy.
Included accessories matter. Look for a remote controller, secondary controller, sensor bar, power cord, AV/video cable and at least one set of batteries or a rechargeable pack.
Compatibility and extras to confirm:
Included accessories matter. Look for a remote controller, secondary controller, sensor bar, power cord, AV/video cable and at least one set of batteries or a rechargeable pack.
Compatibility and extras to confirm:
- Whether the console plays legacy game discs you want
- Whether motion accuracy add-ons are included
- TV connection type and whether you need an adapter for HDMI
- Number of controllers for multiplayer
Types and bundles you will find
Complete renewed console bundles: usually include console, remote(s), nunchuk, sensor bar and one or two games. Good value if accessories are all present and tested.
Console-only renewed units: cheaper but you may need to buy missing accessories separately. This is fine if you already have compatible controllers.
Standalone game discs: often sold renewed or used. Prices vary widely, so compare against bundle deals to avoid overpaying for a single title.
Console-only renewed units: cheaper but you may need to buy missing accessories separately. This is fine if you already have compatible controllers.
Standalone game discs: often sold renewed or used. Prices vary widely, so compare against bundle deals to avoid overpaying for a single title.
Must-check features and specifications
Before clicking buy check these specific items:
- Accessories included: remote, nunchuk, sensor bar, power and video cables, batteries or charger
- Motion add-ons: confirm if motion accuracy modules are present or built into the controller
- Video output: confirm composite/component cables or if an HDMI adapter is needed for modern TVs
- Compatibility notes: whether the console plays older generation discs you want
- Condition details: any cosmetic wear, tested and working status, and number of available units in stock
- Seller type: certified refurbishment from a retailer versus third party used seller
Where to buy, mistakes to avoid and expert tips
Online marketplaces offer the widest selection and price comparisons but check seller ratings, warranty and return windows before you buy.
Local retail or secondhand shops let you inspect and test before purchase, which reduces risk for used hardware.
Common mistakes to avoid:
Expert tips and recommendations:
Local retail or secondhand shops let you inspect and test before purchase, which reduces risk for used hardware.
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Buying a console listing without confirming the sensor bar and at least one working controller
- Assuming all renewals carry the same warranty; check the exact guarantee
- Paying too much for a single game when a bundle with games can be a better value
- Forgetting TV compatibility and needing extra adapters after purchase
Expert tips and recommendations:
- Prioritise certified refurbished units that state a 90 day or longer warranty
- Ask the seller to list every accessory included and to show photos of the actual unit if possible
- Buy a bundle with at least two controllers if you plan to play with others
- Keep receipts and test the console within the return window; document issues with photos or video
- Consider rechargeable battery packs for remotes to lower long term cost
Final Thoughts
For the best balance of price and peace of mind choose a certified renewed bundle that includes the sensor bar and at least one additional controller, confirm the warranty and return policy, and verify TV connection needs before purchase. If you already own accessories, a console-only renewal can save money. Test promptly and keep proof in case you need a return.
