Do You Need the Balance Board for an All Star Cheer Squad?

"All Star Cheer Squad" is, according to its developers, the first cheerleading video game ever developed. In the game, which is available for the Wii and DS systems from Nintendo, you take on the role of a competitive cheerleader and must perform cheerleading moves. Depending on your version of the game, you may need the Wii Balance Board to do so.

  1. Wii Version

    • In the Wii version of "All Star Cheer Squad" you must use the Wii Balance Board to control your avatar. You need to step on the board according to the signals displayed for you on screen in order to move your avatar -- for instance if you step forward on the Wii Balance Board, your avatar will step forward. Effectively, this makes it feel like you're actually performing a cheer routine.

    Other Peripherals

    • When playing the game with the Nintendo Wii you will also need the Wii remote and nunchuk controllers. You must hold one controller in each hand as you perform the routines. This will track the movement of your arms, allowing you to control the upper body motions of your avatar. Moving your arms in specific configurations will also cause your avatar to perform stunts.

    Nintendo DS Version

    • A version of All Star Cheer Squad is available for the Nintendo DS system as well. The Nintendo DS is a handheld console, designed for portable use. It does not rely on the Wii Balance Board or any external peripherals; all you will need is the system itself. To control your avatar in the DS edition, you need to use the buttons, keypad and touchscreen built into the system.

    Precautions

    • Interactive games like "All Star Cheer Squad" for the Wii are a form of physical activity. While this can provide you with physical benefits, you must be careful. Consult your doctor before attempting the game. Nintendo recommends playing barefoot to reduce the risk of slipping on the Balance Board. Nintendo also advises you not to jump on the Balance Board or to use it on an uneven surface. Nintendo cautions against using the Balance Board if you weigh more than 330 pounds.