A simple video game console sits under the Christmas tree, wrapped for a young prince from his girlfriend. He opens it and starts exploring its games. As he plays, someone unexpected reportedly watches with growing curiosity. The monarch herself allegedly leans over, amused by the scene and increasingly interested in the strange little white box lighting up the room. That reported moment—of a queen watching a family member swing a controller at invisible targets—sparked one of the most surprising royal anecdotes of the early 2000s.
If combining monarchy and video games sounds unlikely, keep reading because the story gets even better.
When The Queen Picked Up A Wiimote
The console was the Nintendo Wii, famous for drawing players into the action through motion controls. It was designed for families and casual fun, which made it a perfect fit for holiday gatherings. According to a 2008 report, the queen watched her grandson try the system and asked if she could join. She allegedly picked up the Wiimote and stepped into a game of virtual bowling.
Those around her reportedly described her as laughing, focused, and genuinely enjoying herself. The idea of the queen loosening up with a bowling game turned into a charming talking point. People loved imagining a figure known for formality enjoying a game built for kids, parents, and grandparents alike. Stories like that stick because they show a very human side of someone usually seen behind protocol and ceremony.
The Golden Wii That Never Reached The Palace
A few years later, a game publisher attempted an ambitious publicity stunt. They created a custom Wii that was fully plated in 24 karat gold. The console, the controller, and even the specially bundled game were all designed for maximum spectacle, and the package was addressed directly to the queen herself. The idea was simple: send royalty a royal‑looking Wii and hope the world takes notice.
What the company didn’t consider was the strict security procedure. Unsolicited gifts are not accepted at royal residences. When the gold console arrived, palace staff refused it and returned it to the sender. The queen never saw it. The console went back into storage. Years later, collectors discovered the console’s existence, and eventually it resurfaced on prominent online auction sites.
Why The Story Still Matters
The idea of the queen swinging a Wiimote might sound lighthearted, but it resonated for a reason. You didn’t need crown jewels or historical speeches for this moment. You only needed a familiar living room scene, with family members taking turns at a game. Stories like this remain memorable because they reveal personality, especially from someone whose life usually appears carefully managed.
The mix of genuine family fun and a marketing stunt gone sideways created a story that feels both royal and ordinary.
