2025
Nostalgia should not be enough to give any tech a passing grade. But let me come clean. I wouldn’t have dropped $65 on the revitalized GameCube controller for Switch 2 if I hadn’t spent my preteen years beholden to Nintendo’s boxy console. With improved buttons, the new version is better than anything from 2001. After so many years, I’ve come to see the gamepad as a unique device that’s enhanced by its limitations. Instead, it’s constrained by Nintendo’s own restrictions on where and how you can use it.
See Nintendo Switch 2 at Walmart
See Switch 2+ Mario Kart World Bundle at Walmart
The Switch 2 GameCube controller is exclusive to Nintendo’s online storefront, and its availability keeps fluctuating to the point we can’t tell when or if it will be back in stock. You can find plenty of recreations that try to emulate the look and feel of the 24-year-old controller all the way down to the nubby, yellow “C” button. Nintendo still allows adapters to connect up to four GameCube controllers on Switch 2. So why would you want the official recreation? Because it works as seamlessly as a Joy-Con or Pro Controller, and compared to many third-party emulations, this is the most pitch-perfect accurate device in terms of raw feel. The big problem is, you can’t use it for any other device but the Switch 2. Sorry, you won’t be emulating GameCube games with Nintendo’s own tech (at least until somebody inevitably hacks it).
Nintendo GameCube Controller for Switch 2 It's an improved rendition of Nintendo's classic controller from 2001 with better buttons and wireless connectivity. I just wish I could use it on other devices. Pros Improved buttons and D-pad
Improved buttons and D-pad Home button makes it easier to use with Switch 2
Home button makes it easier to use with Switch 2 Perfect for playing GameCube games Cons Very few GameCube games available on + Expansion Pack
Very few GameCube games available on + Expansion Pack Won't work well with modern titles
Won't work well with modern titles Only works with Switch 2
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