Retro controllers have not been strangers to Nintendo’s console over the years, especially with the Nintendo Switch. Throughout its lifetime, we’ve seen classic controllers for sale via My Nintendo since 2018 and the Switch 2 looks to continue this trend with the GameCube. We got our hands on a Switch 2 GameCube controller, so let’s check it out.
Background
When Nintendo lifted the veil on the Nintendo Switch 2 in early April 2025, they also let fans know that GameCube gamers were coming to Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack users across the globe. The controller itself retails for ¥7,980 / $64.99 USD and currently requires an active Nintendo Switch Online membership to purchase. If you’re looking to get one of these things, there are a few barriers of entry, but if you want to play GameCube games with a replica of the original from Nintendo, this is THE option for you.
The Controller
The GameCube controller for the Switch 2 is a perfect recreation of the original, albeit in wireless form. Unlike the original wireless controller, the Wavebird, this controller sports rumble as well as other elements to make it completely compatible with the Switch 2. The top of the controller features a ZL button on the left side, a capture button, controller indicator lights, a USB C charging port, the home button and the new C-Button for GameShare. For me, I always loved the form factor of the GCN controller. Despite third parties forcing PS2 controller layouts on the thing via ports back in the day, games that made use of it specifically generally felt awesome. It’s going to be great re-visiting some GameCube classics with the help of this wireless controller.
Currently, and likely for the foreseeable future, the GCN controller comes in Indigo - no other color options are available. While I would have loved to see more options, I understand why this is the case. Given that these controllers are limited in terms of availability and the past history of retro controllers for the Switch, making multiple colors would perhaps make it more difficult for Nintendo to fulfill orders. One SKU is a way around this.
Just as with all of the other classic controllers released by Nintendo, this one will also have a special icon when using Nintendo Classic apps. It will also show up on the controller select screen as well. It should be noted here, just in case there was any confusion, the GCN controller cannot be used with the original Nintendo Switch.
Photo Gallery
Below you can find a look at some more shots of the Switch 2 GameCube controller.
Conclusion
Having the GameCube on the Switch 2 is great and the games will definitely be made even better with the ability to play with this controller. Just as with the other device that Nintendo offered for the original Switch, the build quality here is awesome and the controller feels fantastic. Although I hesitate to say that this is a MUST BUY for everyone out there, if you want a shot of nostalgia and can’t be bothered to bust out a GameCube, this might be the next best thing.
But, let’s turn things over to you guys. Did you pick up a Switch 2 GameCube controller? What do you think of it? What are your thoughts on the GCN controller in general? Sound off in the comments down below. We’d love to hear from you!
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