Rumors of New GameCube Controllers Surface Amid Anticipation for Nintendo Switch 2

A fresh development regarding GameCube controllers seems to be underway, potentially linked to the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.

Speculation suggests that Nintendo is in the process of creating a new set of GameCube controllers. This information comes from a Resetera community member who provided insights about shipment details of various components, hinting they may be associated with the Nintendo Switch 2 and possibly a new GameCube controller variant.

The initial discovery of the rumored new GameCube controller was made earlier this year by a dataminer, but more recent updates indicate that production of this hardware is actively progressing. The user has noted that several components resemble those found in existing GameCube controllers, featuring similarities such as LED light covers and trigger casings.

The most intriguing aspect involves shipments of a rumble motor identified as TRW1230, believed to be linked to a forthcoming Nintendo controller project known as HGU0480. This specific rumble motor matches the one used in current GameCube controllers and also in the Nintendo Switch Online N64 controller.

Additionally, Nintendo has announced an upcoming playtest set for October 24, which is related to a new, undisclosed feature for Nintendo Switch Online. While details remain scarce, the possibility exists that the emergence of a new GameCube controller could tie into a proposed GameCube game library for Switch Online, thus further enhancing the subscription service.

As it stands, Switch Online offers subscribers access to a variety of classic games from several systems, such as the Nintendo Entertainment System, Super Nintendo, Game Boy, and Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance. Given this, the addition of GameCube games would seem to be a logical next step.

Even in the scenario where the anticipated new GameCube controllers do not connect to a new library for Switch Online, it remains plausible that they are being developed for the forthcoming Switch 2. Although Nintendo has yet to unveil its next handheld console, a release date announcement is anticipated before 2024 concludes, with expectations for it to hit the market in 2025.