Nintendo Says Switch 2 GameCube Controller Will Work With Non-GameCube Games, but There May Be ‘Issues’
In an announcement sure to stir nostalgia, Nintendo has shed light on the adaptation of its newly launched GameCube controller for the Switch 2. The console titan advises gamers to anticipate “issues” when attempting to use the classic controller with modern titles, outside its primary purpose.
The GameCube controller, making a comeback at the latest Nintendo Direct event, is tailored to complement the GameCube game’s exclusive library available via the Nintendo Switch Online service. During the reveal, it was specifically noted that the controller is primarily designed for GameCube classics and not intended for the broader Switch 2 game lineup.
To clarify and set expectations, Nintendo recently re-emphasized that while the retro controller may technically connect with other titles on the Switch 2, players could encounter some difficulties. This stems from the controller’s limited functionality, lacking “all the buttons and features” that are now standard on contemporary controllers.
Nintendo also stressed the compatibility note, asserting that this specialized GameCube controller was crafted solely for the Switch 2 system and won’t interface with the original Switch console.
“The Nintendo GameCube controller is designed for use with the Nintendo GameCube – Nintendo Classics collection of games and is an optional way to play those games,” Nintendo stated. “Since it doesn’t have all the buttons and features found in other controllers that can be used with the Nintendo Switch 2 system, there may be some issues when playing other games. The Nintendo GameCube controller can only be used on Nintendo Switch 2 and is not compatible with Nintendo Switch.”
This development brings an exciting facelift to the Nintendo Switch Online library, further enriched with a treasure trove of early 2000s-era titles. Included in this nostalgic lineup are celebrated classics such as The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-Zero GX, and Soulcalibur 2, all scheduled to become accessible soon. Nintendo has hinted at plans to expand this library, with beloved titles like Super Mario Sunshine, Luigi’s Mansion, Super Mario Strikers, and Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness potentially being added in the future.
For those keen to experience the updated GameCube dynamic on the new console, it’s wise to stay alert for Switch 2 pre-orders and accessory announcements. As anticipation builds for this innovative transition in gaming nostalgia, gamers should brace themselves for this blend of old and new that could redefine their gaming sessions.
Nintendo’s statement serves as both a nostalgic nod to fans of the original GameCube and as a gentle reminder of the evolving nature of gaming technology.
This resurgence of classic controllers is part of a broader trend in the gaming industry, which sees companies both capitalizing on the appeal of nostalgic hardware and re-imagining its utility for modern platforms. With these updates on the horizon, Nintendo seems dedicated to ensuring that their entire range of gamers—those rooted in nostalgias as well as new entrants to the gaming scene—feel welcomed and catered to.
