Nintendo: Switch 2 GameCube Controller Compatible with Non-GameCube Games, Potential Issues

Nintendo has provided clarity on the compatibility of its newly announced GameCube controller with the Nintendo Switch 2, acknowledging potential "issues" when using it to play modern titles on the new console. The controller was officially introduced during a 60-minute Nintendo Direct presentation earlier this month. At the time, it was noted that the fine print specified the controller's compatibility was limited to "Nintendo GameCube" games available through the Nintendo Switch Online retro library, and not with other games on the Switch 2.

Nintendo has since elaborated on this, reiterating that the retro controller is designed primarily for playing GameCube games. While it might be possible to use the GameCube controller with other Nintendo Switch 2 games, players should be aware that they "may encounter some issues" due to the absence of "all the buttons and features" present in contemporary controllers.

Nintendo has also reaffirmed that the GameCube controller is exclusively compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2 system. In a statement to Nintendo Life, Nintendo explained, "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. 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."

Top 25 Nintendo Gamecube Games

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The GameCube collection represents a significant addition to the Nintendo Switch Online library, offering subscribers access to a host of classic titles from the 2000s. Notable games available at launch this summer include The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-Zero GX, and Soulcalibur 2. Nintendo has teased future expansions to the library, with titles such as Super Mario Sunshine, Luigi's Mansion, Super Mario Strikers, and Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness on the horizon.

For those interested in securing a Nintendo Switch 2, along with the GameCube controller or other accessories and games, stay tuned to 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.