Excitement is brewing among Nintendo fans following the discovery of new filings that hint at the possibility of a new GameCube controller designed for use with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. The anticipation centers around the potential to enjoy GameCube classics through the Nintendo Switch Online subscription service on the new console.
According to a report by Nintendo Life, a recent FCC filing by Nintendo describes a "game controller" that aligns with the Switch 2's specifications, suggesting it could be a wireless Bluetooth controller. Further investigation by the online community, notably on Famiboards, has led to speculation that the controller's label location matches that of a GameCube controller, specifically behind the C-Stick. This has fueled rumors that the controller might be a new version of the iconic GameCube controller.
While there's a possibility that this could be a Switch 2 Pro Controller, the prevailing theory suggests its integration with Nintendo's Switch Online service, which already supports wireless classic controllers for retro gaming.
This development has sparked discussions about the potential addition of a GameCube library to Nintendo Switch Online. Fans have long awaited the inclusion of GameCube classics on the Switch, a wish that Nintendo has yet to fulfill, having focused instead on offering titles from the NES, SNES, N64, Sega Genesis, and Game Boy. The introduction of GameCube games via the Nintendo Switch 2 could mark a significant expansion of the service.
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The Nintendo Switch 2 was officially unveiled in January with a brief trailer that confirmed its backwards compatibility features and the addition of a second USB-C port. However, many details such as other games and the function of the mysterious new Joy-Con button remain undisclosed. The "Joy-Con mouse theory" has gained some traction in the community.
A patent filed by Nintendo last month suggests that the Switch 2's Joy-Con controllers could be attached upside down, utilizing magnets instead of the original Switch's rails. This change could allow players to customize their controller setup, potentially influencing gameplay mechanics if implemented in the final product.
Top 25 Nintendo GameCube Games
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Analysts predict that the Switch 2 could be priced at around $400, with some suggesting it might go as high as $500. June is being floated as a possible release month.
While much about the Switch 2 remains a mystery, Nintendo has announced a Direct presentation scheduled for April 2, where more details about the console are expected to be revealed.
In the meantime, fans can enjoy a taste of GameCube nostalgia with Metroid Prime Remastered, currently available on the Nintendo Switch.