It wasn’t all Nintendo, though. EA Sports’ Active was one of the bigger third party hits for the Wii, and of course there’s a sequel, aptly titled EA Sports Active 2. However this time, the exercise game is available both on the Wii and the PS3, provided you have PlayStation Move on your PS3.

Just like its predecessor, EA Sports Active isn’t focused too much on the “fun” like Wii Sports — it’s an actual work out set for those looking to get into shape. And it works. You can set up your workouts to last several weeks and track your progress, and looking at the stats certainly helps on he motivational side. In fact, Active 2 isn’t as much a “game” as Wii Fit is — Wii Fit is fun, has some mini games and what not. Active 2 however, is like a virtual private trainer. There are a lot of training features, lots of workouts to suit almost anyone, and you can customize almost any aspect. Best of all, you can actually feel it work after just a few days, you can feel your muscles being sore. EA also offers an online feature where you can upload and track your progress online, and compare yourself with friends.

There are a few downsides: the game doesn’t always recolonize the motion controller inputs, and is slow at times. For instance, if you do the exercise faster than suggested, the game won’t recognize it, so you have to pace yourself according to the game, and follow the instructions maliciously. And since it’s a game, it never really beats going to the gym or going for a run. But Active 2 never intended that — it gives you slow, patient and tried and tested workouts. It’s a great upgrade from the first game, and if you liked it, you should definitely get the sequel.

The Good:
Lots of workout varieties
Can be customized to suit anyone
Workouts really work

The Bad:
A few issues with motion sensing
Requires lots of patience

Overall score: 8/10