QUOTE(ramz @ Aug 30 2009, 06:18 PM)
i'll just cut the chase and answer how most like it to be answered. coz i know it will get to that point eventually.
modded to play pirate (although some do buy modded for valid reasons, but they are from mars). unmodded to play original. difference is you get to play pirates on modded wii, but comes with hassles (please don't ask me to elaborate, just google it). If modded you only can play original, but its hassle free.
I beg to respectfully disagree.
People mod (I'm talking about soft-modding here) their Wii to extract the most of the potential of the Wii. For example by loading homebrew, it opens up a much wider array of applications and stuff u can do with the Wii. MY Wii is now my media streaming center using MPlayer CE. No need to buy a separate media player. Just plug in my external HDD into the USB slots and I'm good to go. Also it can be used to play DVDs for those who feel so inclined to (not me

). Besides you can also stream online radio and video.
Also u can run lots of homebrew games that contributors develop for free...simple but fun.
One useful homebrew application (to me la) is the balance board tool. U can use your balance board as a weighing scale! Beats going into Wii Fit everytime I want to check my weight or weigh stuff
Of course there is the element of piracy as well, but that's just like saying we shouldn't allow the VCR just because it can copy shows as well. Some ppl do use it to backup their original games (which cost a bomb btw) to avoid being damaged by their kids (or themselves).
HOwever I would agree that an unmodded Wii will be relatively hassle free, as u have to have a little knowledge of modding and read up a lot before doing the mod.
Good luck with whatever your choice is, coz either way the Wii is tops!