Although theNintendo Switch 2has officially been revealed, the upcoming console is still shrouded in mystery regarding many of its features and games. While fans can expect to learn more about theSwitch 2during the April 2 Nintendo Direct, some details about the console have leaked, revealing Nintendo’s potential plans for the system. According to a recent FCC filing, the company may be planning to release a new version of the classic GameCube controller specifically for the Switch 2, and the implications of such a release could be massive.
Despite being nearly 25 years old, the GameCube still has one of the most popular controllers in all of gaming. Nintendo has re-released the GameCube controller in the past, with the peripheral being compatible with the Wii, Wii U, and Switch in addition to its original console, largely due to its popularity amongSuper Smash Bros. players. This new FCC filing doesn’t explicitly confirm thatNintendo is planning to release a new GameCube controller, but the details within the listing make it seem more than likely.
A GameCube Controller Designed for the Switch 2 Could Imply Some Exciting Possibilities
Nintendo Switch Online Could Finally Be Adding GameCube Titles
One of the most-requested features forNintendo Switch Online is the addition of GameCube gamesto go along with the other classic Nintendo systems that have their libraries available via the service. With the N64 games available in the Expansion Pack tier containing most of the console’s major hits, moving onto the GameCube with the launch of the Switch 2 would be a great way to bring a new wave of exciting titles to the service. It could even be the perfect way to appease fans waiting for games likeZelda: Wind WakerandTwilight Princessremasters on the console, giving them the next best thing in access to the original versions.
Nintendo has confirmed that the Nintendo Switch Online service will be available on the Switch 2.
A New Super Smash Bros. Game Could Be In Development for the Switch 2
A major reason why the GameCube controller has persisted for so long has been its continued use within theSuper Smash Bros. community. With many players finding the GameCuber controller ideal for a game likeSuper Smash Bros. Melee, Nintendo has re-released it along with an adapter peripheral to coincide with the releases ofSuper Smash Bros. for Wii UandSuper Smash Bros. Ultimateon the Switch, making both previous home consoles compatible with the controller. It’s unclear if the Switch 2 will be compatible with the same adapter the GameCube controller used for the Switch, so this wireless version could be a way to circumvent the need for an adapter.
The release of a new GameCube controller that is compatible with the Switch 2 could herald a new entry in theSuper Smash Bros. series. With the last entry,Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, released back in 2018, it’s been nearly seven years since a newSmashgame has hit the scene. Although anenhanced version ofUltimatecould be the title released on the Switch 2, Nintendo may want to leverage its third-best-selling Switch game of all time and release a brand-new entry in the franchise that is compatible with this new GameCube controller.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate’s Sora fighter DLC was released in 2021, meaning the last majorSmash Bros. content fans have seen is nearly 4 years old.
