Nintendo has provided clarity on the compatibility of its newly announced GameCube controller with the Nintendo Switch 2. During the 60-minute Nintendo Direct earlier this month, the controller was introduced, but with a caveat: it's primarily designed for playing "Nintendo GameCube" games available through the Nintendo Switch Online retro library. Nintendo has since confirmed that while the GameCube controller may be used with other Nintendo Switch 2 games, players might encounter "issues" due to the controller lacking "all the buttons and features" found on more modern controllers.

In a statement to Nintendo Life, Nintendo emphasized that the GameCube controller is "designed for use with the Nintendo GameCube – Nintendo Classics collection of games and is an optional way to play those games." They also reiterated that the controller is exclusively compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2 system and not the original Nintendo Switch.

The GameCube collection represents a significant expansion of the Nintendo Switch Online library, offering subscribers access to a variety of iconic 2000s-era titles. Launching this summer, fans can enjoy games like The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-Zero GX, and Soulcalibur 2. Nintendo has teased further additions to the library in the future, including Super Mario Sunshine, Luigi's Mansion, Super Mario Strikers, Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness, and more.

For those eager to secure a Nintendo Switch 2, along with the GameCube controller or other accessories and games, be sure to check our Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order hub for the latest updates and information. You can also learn how to increase your chances of getting a new Nintendo Switch 2 console on launch day.

Top 25 Nintendo GameCube Games

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