Cameron Faulkner is an editor covering deals and commerce. He joined in 2018, and served as commerce editor at Polygon until May 2025.
The wireless GameCube controller that’s for use exclusively with the Nintendo Switch 2 can now be pre-ordered by those who have a Switch Online account. The controller costs $64.99, and is currently limited to one per account. That limitation has allowed it to remain in stock for a few hours already today. For those who’ve bought one, you’ll get it on Switch 2’s launch date, which is June 5th.
Demand is high, so it’s likely that you’ll need to hang out in a waiting room for 30 minutes or so before you’re let in to buy one. So, don’t navigate away.
While GameCube controller support on the original Switch is nothing new (made possible thanks to the GameCube controller plug-to-USB adapter, or with newer third-party USB versions based on the original controller’s design), game support for the new wireless version is quite a bit more limited. It won’t be compatible with Switch backwards compatible titles that work on the Switch 2, including Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, or at least support hasn’t been confirmed yet. Instead, its use is limited to the GameCube games that are coming to Switch Online’s Expansion Pack tier, which at launch will include The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, Soulcalibur 2, and more.
This GameCube controller has USB-C charging, and comes with the C button that’s used to summon GameChat features. Just a reminder: GameChat will be free to use for all Nintendo Switch 2 owners through March 31st, 2026.
