A while back, rumors started circulating that the Wii may be able to connect to the Gamecube’s wireless wavebird controllers without their receivers. Turns out that’s not the case, and we have some answers about how the GC-controller-connected-to-Wii setup will work in general. Games site Nintendojo asked a Nintendo rep and got the following responses:

• WaveBirds and GameCube controllers can be used with all GameCube games and select Wii Disc games.
• WaveBirds are used as Nintendo GameCube controllers, so they need to use the receivers.
• The WaveBird receiver does indeed fit into the top of Wii.
• WaveBird and GameCube controller compatibility with Virtual Console games has not been announced. Nintendo will release more details about Virtual Console games and controls closer to launch.

So, unfortunately, you’ll need to keep your Wavebird dongle and plug it into the top of the Wii. Item one on that list isn’t all that surprising, either, given that it was earlier suggested that Super Smash Bros. Brawl would use the Gamecube controllers. What is interesting is the last item - why would Nintendo be unwilling to comment on whether or not the Wii could use the Gamecube controllers for virtual console games? Does this mean that all virtual console games will have to be played with the Wii’s Classic Controller attachment for the Wiimote?

Frankly, the whole setup is getting a little confusing. Gamecube games will use the gamecube controllers but probably won’t be controllable with the wiimote or its classic controller attachment. Most Wii games will use the wiimote (possibly with other attachments like the nunchuk and classic controller). But now SOME Wii games will use the Gamecube controller as well?? And virtual console games might require the classic controller attachment, not giving you the option to use your GC controller? Help us out here Nintendo… it’s getting to be too much to remember.