Should You Buy a Used Wii from GameStop? Pros, Cons & Better Alternatives

Quick Verdict

Only if price ≤$40 and you inspect in-store. Better value often exists elsewhere.

GameStop Used Wii: Pros

• Immediate: Walk out playing.
• 30-Day Defective Exchange: Swap if DOA (not full warranty).
• Trade Credit Boost: Use old games toward purchase.
• Bundle Deals: Sometimes Wii + Wii Sports + Wiimote + Nunchuk ~$50–60.

Cons & Risks

• Price: Often $50–70 vs. $30–45 private.
• Condition Lottery: Disc drive laser failure common; no way to test fully in 5 min.
• No Component/HDMI: Most used Wiis missing component cable (480p).
• No Wii Shop Channel: Closed 2019 — no digital games, no WiiWare, no VC.
• Online Dead: Nintendo WFC shut down 2014 (fan servers like Wiimmfi exist).

Inspection Checklist (In-Store)

1. Boot to System Menu — no error.
2. Disc drive: Insert game — reads <10 sec, no loud grinding.
3. Wiimote sync: Press red buttons (console + remote) — connects?
4. Video out: Composite (red/white/yellow) works? Component port intact?
5. SD Card slot: Reads card?
6. Backwards compatibility: Test GameCube disc (if RVL-001 model).

Better Alternatives