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

Nintendo has recently provided clarity on compatibility issues surrounding its newly unveiled GameCube controller, confirming potential "issues" when using it with modern Nintendo Switch 2 games. The controller was first showcased at the 60-minute Nintendo Direct earlier this month, with initial warnings indicating its compatibility was limited to "Nintendo GameCube" games within the Nintendo Switch Online retro library, excluding other Switch 2 games.

Nintendo has now elaborated on these limitations, emphasizing that the retro controller is primarily designed for use with GameCube games. While players *may* attempt to use the GameCube controller for other Nintendo Switch 2 games, they should be aware that there "may be some issues" due to the controller lacking "all the buttons and features" found on more contemporary controllers.

Nintendo also reiterated its stance that the GameCube controller is exclusively compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2 system. In a statement to Nintendo Life, Nintendo clarified, "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 marks a significant expansion to the Nintendo Switch Online library, offering subscribers access to a plethora of classic games from the 2000s. Titles such as The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-Zero GX, and Soulcalibur 2 will be available at the collection's launch this summer. The library is expected to grow, with anticipated additions like Super Mario Sunshine, Luigi's Mansion, Super Mario Strikers, Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness, and more.

For those interested in securing a Nintendo Switch 2, GameCube controller, or other related accessories and games, keep an eye on our Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order hub, which will continuously update with the latest news and information. Additionally, you can find out more about how to increase your chances of obtaining a new Nintendo Switch 2 console on launch day.