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Wii Classic Controller Information

The Wii, Nintendo's contribution to the seventh generation of home video game consoles, is famous for its distinct, motion-sensor-controlled gameplay. However, for times when gamers want a more traditional approach to gaming on the Wii, Nintendo has produced the Classic Controller, sold separately from the console package. Knowing a little about this controller, including what it does and what types of games it works with, can help a Wii gamer decide if it's a good purchase.

Purpose
- The Nintendo Wii Classic Controller is designed to give players an alternative to the Wii's trademark motion-sensor based gameplay. In some cases, this means providing an alternative within certain games that can be played using either type of controller, but the Classic Controller also exists for the sake of playing many games that are not designed to be motion-sensor based.
Function
- Unlike most video game controllers, the Classic Controller does not plug directly into the game system, or even send a wireless signal directly to it. Instead, the controller connects to the motion-sensing Wii Remote and sends a signal through this device. The Classic Controller has no battery power of its own, drawing electricity from the Wii remote.
Controls
- The controls on the Classic Controller are designed to be similar to and competitive with other seventh-generation consoles, such as the PlayStation 3 and the Xbox 360. In addition to menu navigation buttons, the controller features four push-buttons on the top of the controller, two analog sticks (like small joysticks), a four-way directional pad and four edge or "shoulder" buttons.
Games
- The Classic Controller is primarily designed to operate games available for purchase on the Wii's Internet download channel, especially Virtual Console games (titles from older systems reformatted for the Wii). However, some feature disc games have also been designed to function with the Classic Controller, including Mortal Kombat: Armageddon, Super Smash Brothers: Brawl, and Fire Emblem: Goddess of Dawn.
Alternatives
- For Wii owners seeking traditional controller-style gameplay, the classic controller is not the only option available. Many Wii games that do not utilize motion-sensor technology can be played using the Wii Remote by simply tilting this controller to its side and operating its buttons with the thumbs (the minimal buttons on the Wii remote make this type of gameplay similar to using a controller for the Nintendo entertainment system). Players may also connect a GameCube controller, which, in addition to being a requirement for using the Wii to play GameCube discs, can be used for a variety of disc and downloadable Wii games. There are, however, some Wii games that require the Classic Controller or are designed to work best with this device.

Nintendo Wii