Moranbong is North Korea's new video game console with Wii-esque controls

North Korea now has its very own video games console: Moranbong.

Announced via website Arirangmeari, the new Korean games console is the first of its kind… For North Korea. For us, its simply another clone of the Nintendo Wii.

Described as an “electronic amusement control device”, the system takes a lot of cues from Nintendo’s runaway success.

For starters, it’s a more casual offering than the likes of PlayStation or Xbox. The press release clearly states that the device is targeting families, or more succinctly, “have a good time with your family.”

Arirangmeari states that the device is receiving critical acclaim over in North Korea, although its presumably their only games console. With the device aiming to be fun for the whole family, it’s a good start for the country’s game’s industry.

The Moranbong comes pre-loaded with a selection of titles to play alongside media applications for watching videos and listening to music.

Most of the games for the device are solely targeted towards encouraging physical fitness. The product’s description clearly states that the device helps combat obesity through fitness.

Other games include a shooting game. By utilizing the console’s built-in cameras, which allegedly make you “feel like you are active in a large space like a stadium”, they aim to make shooting more immersive.

With North Korea being such an oppressive place to live, its comforting to at least see products aimed at entertainment making their way to the country. While this Wii knock-off isn’t anywhere near the level of the Kinect or the Nintendo Switch, it should provide entertainment for North Korean residents.

Are you interested in the Moranbong? Should we review the system?