Excitement is brewing among Nintendo fans as new filings hint at the possibility of a new GameCube controller designed for use with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. This development has sparked speculation that the controller could be used to play GameCube classics through the Nintendo Switch Online subscription service.
According to a report by Nintendo Life, a recent FCC filing by Nintendo for a "game controller" aligns with the specifications of the Switch 2, suggesting it could be a wireless Bluetooth controller. Further investigation by the online community, particularly on Famiboards, has led to the belief that one of the images in the filing shows a label location that matches the back of a GameCube controller, specifically behind the C-Stick.
While some speculate that this could be a new version of the Switch Pro Controller, the prevailing theory is that it's intended for use with Nintendo's Switch Online service, which already supports wireless classic controllers for retro gaming. This has led to heightened anticipation for a potential GameCube library on Nintendo Switch Online, fulfilling long-standing fan requests for GameCube classics on the Switch. So far, Nintendo has focused on re-releasing games from the NES, SNES, N64, Sega Genesis, and Game Boy on its subscription service, but the addition of GameCube titles could be a game-changer for the Switch 2.
The Nintendo Switch 2 was unveiled earlier in January with a trailer that confirmed features such as backwards compatibility and an additional USB-C port. However, many details, including the function of a mysterious new Joy-Con button and other games, remain undisclosed. The Joy-Con mouse theory has gained some traction among fans.
Last month, a Nintendo patent suggested that the Switch 2's Joy-Con controllers could be attached upside down, utilizing magnets instead of the rails found on the original Switch. This design change could allow players to customize the placement of buttons and ports, potentially leading to innovative gameplay mechanics.
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Analysts predict that the Switch 2 could be priced between $400 and $500, with a potential release in June. While much about the Switch 2 remains unknown, Nintendo has scheduled a Direct for April 2 to reveal more about the console.
In the meantime, fans can enjoy a taste of GameCube nostalgia with Metroid Prime Remastered, available on the current Nintendo Switch.
