Switch 2’s GameCube controller apparently only works with Nintendo Classics app

A key detail about Switch 2’s GameCube controller is seemingly confirmed. As it turns out, the device will apparently be compatible with just the upcoming Nintendo Classics app.

That information is included in Nintendo’s official video announcing GameCube games on Nintendo Switch 2. Since it’s only shown in the fine print of the UK upload (it’s not in the North American version), you may have missed it last week – in fact, it seems most people did.

Nintendo is taking a different approach here compared to its other classic controllers. You may recall that on the current system, you’re able to use the controllers for NES, SNES, N64, and SEGA Genesis in standard games for Switch.

GameCube will be the first new classic program as part of the Switch Online service since the arrival of Game Boy, Game Boy Color and Game Boy Advance titles in 2023. The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, Soulcalibur 2 and F-Zero GX will all be available alongside the new console. Chibi-Robo, Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance, Luigi’s Mansion, Pokemon Colosseum, Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness, Super Mario Strikers, and Super Mario Sunshine are also planned.

Fans can get their hands on Nintendo Switch 2 starting June 5, 2025. Although pre-orders were set to open today, they’ve been pushed back in the United States, and the same delay is now impacting Canada.