I think I was almost just as excited to put my hands on the controller as I was to play the games. I thought the N64 controller was the most innovative and comfortable controller and didn’t think it could get any better.

Boy was I wrong. Not that I'm surprised. Nintendo controls the controller market period. Anything they do companies copy. They are the experts and it's proven once again with the GameCube controller.

The second I held it, I realized Nintendo once again had definitely outdone themselves. The controller just feels right. The main control stick is very responsive and comfortable. The D-Pad is a little awkward to reach for, but in the case of Rogue Squadron 2 once you reach for it once or twice, you'll get used to it. The main face buttons (A,B, X, and Y) feel like second nature. I’m not sure if I like the B button yet, but it’s not that bad.

The Shoulder buttons have a very wide range of movement. Your index fingers will actually comfortably, automatically curl around the shoulder buttons. The Z-Trigger is in strange place at first, but once you get used to it (as everything else on the controller) it’s great.

The new feature of clicking the button is also excellent. It’s hard to explain what this is, but I’ll try. The button has a normal give to it, but if you press down past its normal tension it will click. I’ve used it so far for Wave Race, and Rogue 2, and so far I liked it.

Overall, even though it’s early to say; I’m in love with the new controller. I haven’t seen a Wavebird yet, but I’m on the look out. I’m just waiting for Sony to announce their Dual Shock 3 any moment.

Nintendo, you’ve blown us away once again with your controller innovations. Kudos to you!