So, you've bought a Wii. First off, congratulations! No doubt by now, you've searched the Wii Shop Channel, and more specifically, the Virtual Console. You might have seen some games you want to download. Or you might have already downloaded some titles.
But, depending on what console the game was originally released for, you might not be able to play the title without a Gamecube, or a Classic Controller.
You cannot play SNES, N64 and some Mega Drive games without a Gamecube or Classic Controller. The Wiimote will suffice for NES and TurboGrafx games, but is of no use if you want to download later released titles.
So, if you have a Gamecube controller lying around, you're sorted. There's no real need for a Classic Controller. Or is there...
I never planned on getting a Classic Controller.
But, after seeing one on sale in Tescos, and knowing how hard it is to get hold of Wii hardware, software and accesories at the moment, I gave in to temptation and purchased it.
I'd already downloaded Bonk's Adventure and Super Star Soldier (both TurboGrafx titles that work fine with a Wiimote), but it didn't feel quite right for me. However, the Classic Controller is perfect. It's so comfortable to hold, and is built to the very high standards Nintendo set with each release.
It has 4 ''action buttons'': a, b, x and y , in the same layout to a DS, (that is in a diamond shape set up), a D-pad on the left, and two analogue sticks, fitted much like the analogue sticks on a DualShock controller for the Playstation 2. On the top, you'll find R (Right) and L (Left) as well as ZR and ZL (minor shoulder buttons situated more towards the center of the controller). There's also a clicky button that opens two slots at the back, that will most likely be used in the future more more attachments (a micrphone perhaps? Or maybe just a way to attach the Wiimote to the controller). In the center, between the d-pad and the action buttons are the +(plus), - (minus) and Home buttons. The '+' button is used mainly as a pause button, but also as a confirmation button on menus. The - button is used to scroll through options on menus. The Home button opens up the Game Options (Wii Menu, Wiimote Options, Game manual etc.).
All together, to date, I've downloaded 19 Virtual Console games ranging from the NES to the Nintendo 64 and played them with the Classic Controller, and it works perfectly with each and every title. I've no complaints about responsiveness, or it's comfortability. It's styling is very modern, and it doesn't look out of place next to the Wiimote, the nunchuck, or the Wii itself. The build quality of the controller is excellent. It feels solid, and there's no give whatsoever if you apply presssure.
I heartedly recomend the Classic Controller to anyone who wants to download titles from the Virtual Console released on later consoles. If you have a Gamecube controller, there's no need for a Classic Controller. I have a Gamecube controller, but I much prefer to use the Classic Controller, instead of having a GC controller plugged into the Wii. It just feels more ''retro'', and the d-pad of the Gamecube pad is a pain to use.
The only issue I have with this controller is the fact it isn't wireless. It has be pluggged into the bottom of the Wiimote, just like the nunchuck attachment, which isn't the greatest way of doing it. Playing a VC game with the wiimote on your lap, to your side, or on the floor can be a little awkward at times, so a wireless version would be lovely (you never know what Nintendo have in store for us!).
If you plan to, or do use the Wii's Virtual Console Channel, then I highly recomend you pick up one of these beauties. In future, it will be useable with Wii titles (there is talk of using the Classic Controller with Super Smash Bros. Brawl, which would be amazing!).
The Classic Controller costs roughly £15, and is available from most good videogame retailers, and many online sites. The demand for the Wii is very high at the moment, so you may find difficulty in finding this accesory. But don't give up, it's definitely worth it!
Pictures of Nintendo Wii Classic Controller
Classic Controller attached to a Wiimote
How helpful would this review be to a person making a buying decision? Rating guidelines
Advantages: fun for family, downloadable content, 4 controllers, wii shop channel Disadvantages: controls hit and miss, miss out if cant get ur wii 2 connect 2 the internet
mcleism01 09.07.2008 ·
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: helpful
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Dec 31st, 2006
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