Nintendo Imposes Restrictions on Lower-Priced Switch 2 Peripherals
Let's dive into the chaotic world of the Switch 2 craze, sweeping across both U.S. shores and international waters, as June 5 fast approaches. The hype surrounding Nintendo's latest handheld console revels in consumers' willingness to splash out around $450 for this upgraded device.
Armed with your Switch 2, expect riverhead-deep pockets for games, roughly amounting to $70 or $80, along with an additional $100 for genuine Nintendo controllers! While third-party accessories tend to be less pricey, beware of licensed and niche peripherals that may come up short in one or more aspects compared to the genuine stuff.
The dream of reviving the GameCube controller reemerges, with Nintendo once again hailing it as a gift to gamers. But hold on—the fine print reveals some unpleasant caveats. This retro-inspired device will only function with GameCube titles accessible via the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription. However, with some tweaking, it can operate with other Switch 2 games too, as long as they're adapted for the missing left bumper button and funny-shaped right analog stick. Keep in mind, this new GameCube controller won't function on any console other than Switch 2.
Facing questions, Nintendo asserted: "The Nintendo GameCube controller is designed for use with Nintendo GameCube – Nintendo Classics collection of games and is an optional way to play those games. Since it doesn't have all the buttons and features found in other controllers that can be used with the Nintendo Switch 2 system, there may be some issues when playing other games. The Nintendo GameCube controller can only be used on Nintendo Switch 2 and is not compatible with Nintendo Switch."
Such is the demand that the listing for Nintendo's GameCube controller on its website now suggests it'll launch alongside the Switch 2 on June 5. For the lucky few who manage to secure the controller, they may have the chance to purchase it a week early if they navigate the complex path of Nintendo's priority sale on the My Nintendo Store between May 8 and May 12.
Even at an expected price of $65, the new GameCube controller is cheaper than the new $85 Pro controller and $95 Joy-Con 2 (Nintendo recently increased the prices of each peripheral by $5 due to U.S. tariffs). Both premium controllers boast a comfortable ergonomic design but come with steep price tags that can raise the cost of the already expensive Switch 2.
Unfortunately, the Switch 2 GameCube controller isn't the only accessory that could leave you disappointed. Be cautious when considering the April 2 Switch 2 Direct's suggestion that streaming to friends using Nintendo's $55 1080p-resolution Switch 2 camera may encounter latency and pixelated images.
Enter Hori, peddling a Piranha Plant camera that clocks in at $60. Given the price, it's reasonable to expect this camera would afford a higher resolution than the official Switch 2 camera. Trouble is, the Piranha Plant camera boasts a measly 480p resolution—nowhere near even standard HD.
Hori boasts another unremarkable camera compatible with the Switch 2, but even it's limited to 480p resolution. However, it offers the ability to plug directly into the Switch 2's USB-C port, handheld mode, a feature the official camera doesn't offer.
Curious to see how these cameras compare? Time will tell! With any luck, third-party webcams could potentially offer higher-quality alternatives if Nintendo approves their use with the Switch 2.
Eager to stay in the loop on Switch 2 accessories? Hold your breath and brace yourself for further updates.
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