The Nintendo Switch Online GameCube Controller Supports Gyro Controls

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With the Nintendo Switch 2 and its launch accessories now in the hands of fans, players are finding an unexpected feature: the Nintendo Switch 2’s GameCube controller includes gyroscopic control capabilities.

The brand-new controller, accessible only via Nintendo Switch Online or select retail outlets of Nintendo, bears a striking resemblance to the original GameCube controller yet boasts several significant enhancements. For instance, the traditional c-stick now serves dual functions as the new C-button for the Switch 2, which activates GameChat. Additionally, Reddit posts reveal that the internal layout has been altered for improved d-pad responsiveness.

The gyroscope, an unexpected feature, was not disclosed by Nintendo prior to the launch of the Switch 2. It was only upon unboxing the new controller that fans found out about its additional functionalities. For instance, Sashibu, a renowned Splatoon content creator from Japan, shared on X that it is now possible to play Splatoon using a GameCube controller.

【朗報】Switch2 と同時発売のSwitch用ゲームキューブコントローラー、まさかのジャイロ搭載により「ゲームキューブコントローラーでスプラをやる」という新しい選択肢が生まれる

— さしぶー (@sashibu2) June 5, 2025

The innovative gyroscopic controls were first incorporated into mainstream gaming with the Wii MotionPlus, which debuted in 2009, and have since been utilized by Nintendo across all their subsequent consoles. A fair number of Switch games employ gyroscopic controls for targeting (the Wii and Wii U used a sensor bar for this as well), while some creatively utilize them in unique ways too.

At first, when Nintendo introduced the GameCube controller for the Switch 2, they emphasized that it was only suitable for playing games in the Nintendo Switch Online Classics library that are based on GameCube titles. Later, they made it clear that this controller could be utilized with any game on the Switch 2, although potential problems might occur due to missing features or buttons found on other controllers. The presence of gyro controls and a C-Button seems to challenge the notion that the controller is exclusively intended for GameCube titles (which do not support gyro input). So, keep in mind that you may encounter issues when using it with games that don’t fully support these additional features.

Only Nintendo Switch Online subscribers can place orders for the GameCube controller, with each individual being allowed to purchase just one. Alternatively, you can pick up this controller at certain Nintendo retail outlets.

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2025-06-06 17:09