However, the Entertainment Software Association, the game publishers' trade group that operates the expo, has committed to restoring E3 to its former glory.

Personally, I can't wait to check it out. While other shows like San Jose's Game Developers Conference and Seattle's Penny Arcade Expo have been coming on strong in recent years, there is only one E3.

There's a lot to love about the show, but surprise announcements of new games are always the best thing about the gathering. Rest assured, I'll have a full report on E3 happenings for Weekend readers.

I've been giving the Wii a workout with ExciteBots Trick Racing. So far, I can report that the recently released game is fast-paced and fun.

The idea behind ExciteBots is off-the-wall, but in a good way. Players race and pull stunts with Transformer-like creatures that are hybrid combinations of animals and souped-up racing machines. These include frogs, bats, ladybugs, mice, and more. Each species has its own racing attributes, and players can unlock new bots or customize the ones they have as they progress through the game. Under certain conditions, the bots will stand upright and operate in "leg form," requiring players to adjust their control style accordingly. Players advance in the game by collecting stars or, in some cases, meeting time challenges. A fast-paced soundtrack helps fuel the game's excitement.

But ExciteBots is not just about turning laps on the game's racecourses. There are wild mini-games and even "poker races" in which players have to pick up and discard cards to complete poker hands as they race around the track at high speed. Mixing playing cards and animal-machine hybrid racing is a bit of a non sequitur, perhaps, but very challenging nonetheless. The game includes an option for online matches.

ExciteBots Trick Racing is best played with Nintendo's racing-wheel controller. The Wii Remote slips into the wheel's crossbar, allowing button access to players while they use the wheel to control turning, jumping, and gliding. This terrific peripheral is included in the $49.99 list price. If you already have a wheel, you can pick up just the game for 10 bucks less.

Power Up:

ExciteBots Trick Racing
(Nintendo, Wii)

$49.99 with racing-wheel controller

Rating: E (All ages)

Grade: A

On the Web: www.excitebots.com