Recent Nintendo filings have ignited excitement among fans, sparking speculation about a new GameCube controller potentially designed for playing classic GameCube titles on the Nintendo Switch 2 via the Nintendo Switch Online subscription service. As reported by Nintendo Life, a newly filed FCC document listing a "game controller" aligns with the Switch 2's specifications, suggesting a wireless Bluetooth controller.

Further investigation by Famiboards reveals that one image within the filing shows a label placement matching the back of a GameCube controller, specifically behind the C-Stick.

While this could be a new Switch 2 Pro Controller, current speculation leans towards its integration with Nintendo's Switch Online service, which already supports wireless classic controllers for retro gaming. This has led to widespread anticipation of a GameCube game library being added to Nintendo Switch Online. Nintendo fans have long championed the inclusion of GameCube classics on the Switch, but Nintendo has thus far focused on NES, SNES, N64, Sega Genesis, and Game Boy titles for its subscription service. Could the Switch 2 finally bring GameCube games back in a major way?

Nintendo Consoles

The Switch 2 was unveiled earlier in January with a brief trailer confirming backwards compatibility and the addition of a second USB-C port. Many details, including its game lineup and the function of a mysterious new Joy-Con button, remain undisclosed, although the Joy-Con mouse theory gained some traction.

Last month, a Nintendo patent suggested the Switch 2's Joy-Cons could be attached upside down, utilizing gyro mechanics similar to smartphones without screen lock. Unlike the original Switch's locking rails, the new controllers reportedly use magnets, allowing attachment on either side. This design change, while not significantly altering the hardware, offers players flexibility in button placement and could potentially lead to innovative gameplay mechanics.

Top 25 Nintendo GameCube Games

Analysts predict a $400 price point for the Switch 2, with some suggesting a possible $500 price tag. June has been mentioned as a potential release month. While much remains unknown about the Switch 2, Nintendo plans a Direct presentation for April 2nd to reveal further details.

In the meantime, Metroid Prime Remastered provides a fantastic taste of GameCube-era gaming on the current Nintendo Switch.