Big news for that big A.
There’s been an unexpected, unmentioned addition to Nintendo Switch with its 4.0.0 update – GameCube controllers (when using the Wii U’s USB adapters) now work with the system.
Twitter user Master Mewking was among the first to discover the new controller support. It’s not foolproof as yet, with many users reporting that it takes multiple attempts to pair a pad – perhaps explaining why Nintendo hasn’t publicised the change.
The process is, on paper, fairly simple: Make sure your Switch is set to accept wired controllers, plug the adapter in, plug the controller in, choose to pair controllers, then press L and R. Up to four GameCube controllers can be used simultaneously.
All Switch games appear to be compatible with GameCube controllers, although there is a caveat – you won’t be able to use any ZL commands, or the Home button.
Naturally, the addition’s led to speculation that we’ll see the long-rumoured release of GameCube Virtual Console titles, or a new version of the famously GameCube pad-friendly Smash Bros.
The 4.0.0 update also added save transfers and 30-second video capture for select games.
Joe Skrebels is IGN’s UK News Editor, and he has two words for Nintendo: “Seaman please”. Follow him on Twitter.