In the mounting media coverage around the upcoming launch of Nintendo's Switch 2, there is more news here about the GameCube controller. Nintendo is slated to launch the Switch 2 on June 5th, 2025, and it will be the sequel to their 2017 Switch launch.
Upcoming Nintendo Online GameCube Releases
Nintendo announced new content for the Nintendo Switch online during its Switch 2 Direct on April 2nd, 2025. Several select titles from the 2001 GameCube will be coming to online members on the Switch 2 launch date, including:
- The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker
- F-Zero GX
- Soulcalibur 2
Nintendo has also cited several other games that will be coming to this online service in the future, including:
- Super Mario Sunshine
- Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance
- Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness
- Super Mario Strikers
- Luigi's Mansion
- Pokemon Colosseum
- Chibi-Robo
GameCube Controller Compatibility
As part of this launch of classic GameCube games, Nintendo has unveiled a classic GameCube controller. However, in the announcement video released to the Nintendo UK YouTube channel, the creators advised fans that the controller would only be compatible with the Nintendo GameCube – Nintendo Classics games.
Nintendo is not expected to be selling this controller for cheap. It will also be exclusive, being only available for purchase by Nintendo Switch Online members.
This comes amid continued concerns around the price of the Switch 2, the cost of upcoming games for this new platform, a paid tutorial, and the uncertain status of the impact of tariffs for many Nintendo fans. Accordingly, Nintendo fans who are seeking to experience the Switch 2 to the fullest extent are going to be emptying their wallets for the privilege.
Gamer Social Club will be sure to keep you in the loop in the continued developments around the release of the Switch 2. Be sure to check out our previous coverage of the Switch 2 Direct.
