[Xylakant]

Well, if I let my PS3 in the box for about a year and then try to play a quick round of some casual game downloaded from the store, I'll have to go through the same ordeal. If it's used daily, then not. It's a function of how often you use your console.

[nkozyra]

I don't think anyone would argue the PS3 is the perfect party console, either.

I bought the PS3 and Wii around the same time and obviously the "party console" prize went to the latter - particularly early on it seemed like every third time I put a game in there was 15 minutes of firmware and software updates.

[srs0001]

Slightly off-topic, but if you're looking for a good party console I'd recommend a GameCube. You can buy a used one and a few controllers for about $100. There are a ton of great local multiplayer games: Smash Bros, F-Zero, Def Jam, Mario Kart, Blitz 20-02. Plus, no need for updates.

[mpyne]

I can confirm this recommendation. When I bought my Gamecube a decade+ ago I figured it would eventually get donated or sold off as I continued on the console upgrade treadmill.

But everything that has come along since has had the glaring problems noted in this thread, such that I still have my Gamecube, the controllers, games, etc. It always works, when I need it to work.

Now if only Perfect Dark had been released for it...

[ZeroGravitas]

Earlier model Wii's also have backwards compatability with Gamecube, so all you need is the games and controllers if you already have one of those. Not sure if that's going to see many more updates.

Though not a party game as such I'd recommend buying Jungle Beat and a pair of bongo controllers if you do go down the Gamecube route.

[soapdog]

I got my gamecube with two controllers for $20 at Electronic Boutique... recommend+++ :D

$20 folks! There is no arguing there. I play my OUYA more than the GC but they are the two consoles I like the most and I have a ps3....

[prawks]

Plus, Gamecube controllers are very well designed, especially for people with smaller hands.

[Xylakant]

It's not like the Wii never needed any firmware updates either.

[Pxtl]

Doesn't the Wii let you postpone firmware updates unless you're trying to play a game/app that demands firmware version X?

[evan_]

And iirc they shipped the upgrade on their tent pole first-party games so even if you didn't have your wii hooked up to the internet you could still take advantage of the updates.

[vonmoltke]

Yes. I don't think I have ever been required to install an update, with the exception of the one a couple years ago when Nintendo EOLed some of the default channels.

[thomaslangston]

I seem to remember that it downloaded (and maybe installed) some of these while the box was in standby mode, so rarely did I have to install one while waiting to play.

[nkozyra]

Well I certainly didn't say that. But they were less frequent than the PS3 and generally much smaller/faster.