Nintendo Addresses Switch 2 GameCube Controller Compatibility with Additional Games

Nintendo has shed some light on the compatibility of the GameCube controller for the Nintendo Switch 2, noting there could be hurdles when using it beyond the scope of the Nintendo GameCube – Nintendo Classics app. During the April 2 Nintendo Direct, where the spotlight was on the Switch 2 and its array of new features along with upcoming game titles, the reveal of the wireless GameCube controller caught attention.

For those diving into the Nintendo gaming universe, two options for the Nintendo Switch Online membership are available: a basic tier at $19.99 annually, and a more comprehensive tier known as Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, priced at $49.99 per year. With the base tier, subscribers can enjoy online multiplayer modes and timeless classics from NES, SNES, and Game Boy collections. The premium tier enriches this experience by including the basic perks, plus free downloadable content for select titles like Splatoon 2 and Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Subscribers also gain access to classic games from the Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis libraries. Notably, at the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, those with the Expansion Pack can immediately delve into legendary GameCube games such as SoulCalibur 2, The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker, and F-Zero GX.

A representative from Nintendo addressed a query from Nintendo Life, explaining that the new GameCube controller is essentially built for the GameCube classics via the app, and serves as an alternative to using the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller for these titles. However, due to its unique button layout and the absence of some features present on other controllers, it might face compatibility issues when used for diverse game titles on the Switch 2. Furthermore, Nintendo has confirmed that this GameCube controller won’t work with the older Nintendo Switch system.

Interestingly, if you still have classic wired controllers from the original GameCube console, they can be connected to the Nintendo Switch 2 using the GameCube Controller Adapter. While the beloved Joy-Con and Pro Controllers from the original Switch are indeed forwards compatible with the Switch 2, they too might encounter similar issues as the GameCube controller.

Each month, Nintendo enriches its Switch Online library with more classic titles, a trend expected to persist even as the Switch 2 launches. Come June 5, when the new console hits the shelves, fans can look forward to even more GameCube classics being added to the Expansion Pack suite. Games like Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance, Chibi-Robo, Pokemon Colosseum, Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness, and Super Mario Sunshine are anticipated to join the growing catalog over time.

The Nintendo Switch 2 continues to impress, boasting a proprietary operating system, an internal storage space of 256GB, and support for microSD cards. The device delivers visuals at 1080p on handheld mode and 4K when docked, along with access to the Nintendo eShop and Wi-Fi compatibility, making it a compelling choice for gamers everywhere.