Andy Robertson from GamePeople has an interesting writeup concerning the Wavebird controller from the GameCube and how it’s price has recently increased after enjoying a dip in price before the Wii’s release. Seems the double punch combo of some of the Virtual Console games requiring either it or the classic controller combined with the great GameCube titles that work on the Wii has increased it’s demand and in turn it’s pricing. I must admit, it is one of my personal favorite controllers ever built as it’s very durable, comfortable, and the battery life is incredible in the controllers. We have two of them and you couldn’t pry them from my cold dead hands, you dirty apes.

While the article is discussing UK prices, a similar effect was also seen here in the US. Here’s a quote from his article:

The WaveBird has seen great fluctuations in price over its turbulent life. I recently put together the following list that shows the little fella’s popularity reflected in its price (in my local and on-line retailers):

* GameCube Launch Price £34.99 (Electronics Boutique)
* Mid GameCube £27.99
* Late GameCube £22.99 (Game)
* End of Gamecube life £5.99 (WH Smiths Sale)
* Wii Launch £17.99 (Play.com)
* Post Christmas price £24.99 (Amazon.co.uk)

A quick glance at GameStop shows the controller going for the original price of $35 here in the US, while Amazon.com shows nothing but resellers charging over $50 for a new one. Too bad we didn’t pick up a couple more when they were on the cheap, they would have been great to use for some 4 Player Mario Kart 64 when that hits the VC. Who wants to be tethered to their Wii when playing GameCube or Virtual Console titles with the original GC controllers? Nobody and that includes you so grab a Wavebird if you haven’t already, you can thank us later.

Check out the writeup at GamePeople for more information on the controller and it’s price fluctuations.