Rumor: Nintendo May Have Future Plans for the GameCube Controller

Key Takeaways

• Nintendo may bring back the GameCube Controller for the Switch 2, based on leaked components.
• Recent rumors align with past speculation about a new GameCube controller.
• Third-party GameCube-style Joy-Cons are emerging while players still use old GameCube controllers.

According to a new rumor, Nintendo might be bringing back the classic GameCube Controller in the future, possibly as a peripheral for the upcoming Switch 2 console. There have been several rumors about the next mainline Nintendo console over the past few months, most of which pertain to when the Big N is going to show off its new hardware. Many of the supposed leaks of this hardware paint a system that is similar in design to the current Nintendo Switch, retaining its console/handheld hybrid structure while improving the technical specifications.

As the world waits for more news about the next Nintendo console, some rumors are reminding gamers of systems from previous generations like the GameCube. Released in late 2001 as part of the sixth generation of consoles, the GameCube didn’t quite take the world by storm on the level of the PlayStation 2 and original Xbox during its run, but it is still looked back on fondly by Nintendo fans thanks to its library of memorable first-party titles. The Nintendo GameCube’s signature controller is also nostalgic among gamers of the early 2000s, especially since it is still compatible with current systems like the Switch.

A few days ago, a user by the handle of RandomlyRandom67 posted an alleged list of shipped Nintendo components on the ResetEra forums, which in turn first appeared in a hidden Famiboards post. This list makes mention of parts for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 console and “other Nintendo products,” one of which appears to be a GameCube controller. More specifically, this list includes the rumble motor TRW1230 (which is the same one used in the old GameCube controllers), specific LED light covers, and trigger covers. Additionally, the post suggests that parts used in the current GameCube controller are being re-used for this new controller, which is reportedly numbered HGU0480.

Nintendo Might Be Bringing Back the GameCube Controller

Of course, it isn’t clear if this is for a new controller in the style of the Nintendo GameCube’s controller, but this would line up with past rumors from earlier this year. Back in July, a similar claim was made about a GameCube pad possibly being planned for Nintendo Switch Online, with this latest leak being a sign that the controller in question is now in active production.

In the meantime, third-party companies have started making Nintendo Switch Joy-Con controllers in the style of the old GameCube controller, and players are still plugging in their old pads for use in games like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate through Nintendo’s designated controller adapter. Perhaps the next Nintendo controller will have an updated version of the wired GameCube controller that plugs directly into the console, but it is too early to tell.