Nintendo Confirms Switch 2 GameCube Controller Compatibility, Warns of Potential Issues

Nintendo has addressed concerns regarding the compatibility of its newly unveiled GameCube controller with the Nintendo Switch 2. The company revealed during the 60-minute Nintendo Direct earlier this month that the controller is primarily designed for use with the GameCube games available through the Nintendo Switch Online retro library. However, Nintendo has now clarified that while the GameCube controller may be used with other Nintendo Switch 2 games, players might encounter "issues" due to the absence of modern controller features.

"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 to Nintendo Life. "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 the original Nintendo Switch."

Top 25 Nintendo GameCube Games

View 26 ImagesThe GameCube collection is a significant addition to the Nintendo Switch Online library, offering subscribers access to a range of iconic titles from the 2000s. Fans can look forward to playing classics such as The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-Zero GX, and Soulcalibur 2, which will be available at launch this summer. The library is set to expand in the future, with anticipated titles including Super Mario Sunshine, Luigi's Mansion, Super Mario Strikers, Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness, and more.

For those eager to pre-order a Nintendo Switch 2, along with the GameCube controller or other accessories and games, be sure to check our Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order hub for the latest updates and information. Additionally, learn more about how to increase your chances of securing a new Nintendo Switch 2 console on launch day.