Home News "Switch 2 GameCube Controller Compatible with Non-GameCube Games, But Issues Expected"

"Switch 2 GameCube Controller Compatible with Non-GameCube Games, But Issues Expected"

Author : Zoe May 20,2025

Nintendo has provided further clarity on the compatibility of its newly unveiled GameCube controller with the Nintendo Switch 2, highlighting potential "issues" when using it for modern games on the new console.

The GameCube controller was introduced during the 60-minute Nintendo Direct earlier this month. At the time, fine print indicated that the controller is "only compatible with Nintendo GameCube" games available through the Nintendo Switch Online retro library, and not with other Switch 2 games.

Nintendo has since expanded on this information, confirming that the retro controller is primarily designed for use with GameCube games. While players *may* attempt to use the GameCube controller with other Nintendo Switch 2 games, they should be aware that "some issues" might arise due to the controller lacking "all the buttons and features" present in more contemporary controllers.

Nintendo reiterated its stance that the GameCube controller is exclusively compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2 system. In a statement to Nintendo Life, Nintendo said, "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

View 26 Images

The GameCube collection represents a significant enhancement to the Nintendo Switch Online library, offering subscribers access to an array of iconic titles from the early 2000s. At launch this summer, players can enjoy classics such as The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-Zero GX, and Soulcalibur 2. The library is set to grow over time, with anticipated additions like Super Mario Sunshine, Luigi's Mansion, Super Mario Strikers, Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness, and more.

For those interested in pre-ordering the Nintendo Switch 2, GameCube controller, or other related accessories and games, be sure to check our Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order hub for the latest updates and information. Additionally, you can learn more about strategies to secure a new Nintendo Switch 2 console on launch day.

Latest Articles More
  • The Witcher 4 Tech Demo: CD Projekt on Its Ambition for the Game

    The Witcher 4 tech demo showcased a breathtaking glimpse into CD Projekt's vision, though the studio emphasizes it’s purely a technical showcase, not gameplay, as reported by IGN. Built with Unreal En

    Dec 14,2025
  • PS5 Slim Disc Version Drops Below $400

    Looking for the most affordable PlayStation 5 console available? As part of its US Anniversary Sale, AliExpress is offering an imported Sony PlayStation 5 Slim Disc Edition for just $397.94 with free shipping after applying the $50 discount code "IFP

    Dec 13,2025
  • Fortnite Adds Hatsune Miku Skins

    The arrival of Fortnite Festival Season 7 brings a new Icon to the stage: Hatsune Miku. The highly anticipated Vocaloid is now accessible across multiple Fortnite modes with several skin variations. Here's how you can get them for your collection.How

    Dec 13,2025
  • MicroSD Express Crucial for Switch 2 Performance

    Nintendo's recent Switch 2 announcement revealed the console will exclusively support storage expansion through MicroSD Express cards - a potentially frustrating but technically justified decision that prioritizes blazing-fast loading speeds.The Need

    Dec 12,2025
  • The Last of Us Season 2 Premiere Date Set

    The Last of Us Season 2 is set to premiere on HBO this April.HBO has officially announced that the new season of The Last of Us will debut on Sunday, April 13, at 9pm ET/PT and will also be available for streaming on Max. The season will consist of s

    Dec 12,2025
  • Compare All Avowed Editions

    Avowed will launch for Xbox Series X|S and PC on February 13 — if you purchase one of the higher-tier special editions. The standard edition releases on February 18. This first-person action-RPG, crafted by Obsidian Entertainment, looks to deliver an

    Dec 12,2025