Home News "Switch 2 GameCube Controller Compatibility Issues with Non-GameCube Games, Says Nintendo"

"Switch 2 GameCube Controller Compatibility Issues with Non-GameCube Games, Says Nintendo"

Author : Simon Jun 17,2025

Nintendo has officially addressed concerns regarding the compatibility of its newly unveiled GameCube controller, stating that there may be "some issues" when using it with modern Nintendo Switch 2 games. The retro-style controller was originally revealed during the 60-minute Nintendo Direct presentation earlier this month. At that time, it was noted that fine print indicated the controller's primary use was limited to Nintendo GameCube titles within the Nintendo Switch Online library—and not for broader Switch 2 gameplay.

In a recent update, Nintendo reaffirmed this stance, emphasizing that the GameCube controller was specifically designed for playing classic GameCube titles on the Nintendo Switch 2 platform. While players *may* be able to use the controller with other Switch 2 games, the company warns that functionality could be limited due to the absence of modern control features and required button layouts.

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Additionally, Nintendo reiterated that the GameCube controller is only compatible with the new Nintendo Switch 2 console and will not function with the original Nintendo Switch. This clarification ensures users understand the limitations before purchasing or attempting to use the peripheral outside of its intended purpose.

"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 confirmed in a statement 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 Nintendo Switch."

A Look at the Nintendo GameCube Collection

The launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 brings with it a major enhancement to the Nintendo Switch Online service—access to a curated list of beloved GameCube-era titles. Players can look forward to experiencing classics like *The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker*, *F-Zero GX*, and *Soulcalibur II* right from day one this summer. Additional titles are expected to join the lineup over time, including fan favorites such as *Super Mario Sunshine*, *Luigi’s Mansion*, *Super Mario Strikers*, and *Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness*.

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Pre-Order Information and More

If you're planning to get your hands on the Nintendo Switch 2, along with the GameCube controller or other accessories, we recommend checking out our official Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order hub regularly for updates. You can also learn more about how to improve your chances of securing a console on launch day via this guide.

Which Nintendo Switch 2 Game Are You Most Excited For?

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