What Does Wii MotionPlus Do? Precision Motion Control Explained

Wii MotionPlus is a small accessory that attaches to the bottom of a Wii Remote (or is built into the Wii Remote Plus) adding a 3-axis gyroscope alongside the existing accelerometer. This dramatically improves motion tracking accuracy.

Key Benefits

• True 1:1 Motion: The gyroscope detects rotation (yaw, pitch, roll) independently of acceleration. Swings, twists, and angles are tracked precisely—not just "waggle."
• Reduced Drift: Original Wii Remote relied on sensor bar for orientation correction. MotionPlus maintains orientation internally, reducing cursor drift.
• New Gameplay Mechanics: Enables gestures impossible on base hardware: sword angles, golf club face control, archery draw, frisbee tilt.

Games That Showcase MotionPlus

• Wii Sports Resort (Pack-in): Swordplay (duel/speed/chamber), Archery, Golf, Bowling, Table Tennis, Basketball—all demand precise motion.
• The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword (Requires MotionPlus): Entire combat system built around directional swings, thrusts, and shield bashes. The gold standard for motion controls.
• Super Mario Galaxy 2: Used for precise platforming sections (e.g., Flipsville Galaxy) and Star Ball rolling.
• Red Steel 2, Tiger Woods PGA Tour 11, Grand Slam Tennis: Deep motion integration.

Wii Remote Plus (RVL-036)

Released 2010, this integrates MotionPlus inside the remote—no dongle needed. Identifiable by "Wii" text on the speaker grille and a slightly longer body. Backward compatible with all Wii Remote games.

MotionPlus transformed the Wii from "waggle" to genuine motion simulation. For the best experience, use a Wii Remote Plus or attach a MotionPlus dongle to your original remotes.