Metaphorically, the Wii has been the hottest console in the game industry for years. Now, though, a third-party peripheral for the game is being recalled for generating dangerous amounts of actual heat.
Some 220,000 battery charger accessories for the Wii were recalled this week by distributor Griffin International. The battery packs have a problem with overheating, which poses a fire hazard and can burn users. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Griffin received six reports of overheating problems related to the product, with two people suffering minor burns on their hands.
The $50 4-Dock Battery Recharge Stations have been sold since January 2008 under the React brand name at Best Buy stores and under the Psyclone Essentials label at Target, Toys 'R' Us, and Amazon.com.
"We have chosen to voluntarily recall the Psyclone and React Wii 4-Dock Recharge Station products upon learning of extremely isolated cases of the battery overheating, causing the batteries in the unit to short circuit," Psyclone said on its Web site. "Even though the number of cases is very small, we are committed to ensuring our customers are completely satisfied with our products."
The Psyclone page contradicts the USCPSC notice of the recall, saying the company is aware of only four units having problems, with no injuries reported. Griffin advises consumers to stop using the recharge stations immediately and contact the company at 888-344-4702 or e-mail productsafety@psyclonegamer.com to return the product for a free replacement.
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