Correction at 10:21 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 8: According to Nintendo, “Please note the GameCube Controller Adapter for Wii U is compatible with Wii U and Super Smash Bros. for Wii U specifically — it is not compatible with any other Wii U software. The adapter is also not compatible with Wii, and we apologize for any confusion prompted by our earlier listing.”
To appease long-time fans of the Super Smash Bros. fighting-game franchise, Nintendo is releasing a GameCube controller adapter for the Wii U. Now, we’re finding out that you can use that classic input device to control a bunch of other games on the company’s home console.
[aditude-amp id="flyingcarpet" targeting='{"env":"staging","page_type":"article","post_id":1570943,"post_type":"story","post_chan":"none","tags":null,"ai":false,"category":"none","all_categories":"games,","session":"D"}']The GameCube Controller Adapter, as it is officially called, debuts Nov. 21 alongside Super Smash Bros. for Wii U. The $20 device plugs into the system and gives you four controller ports. While most of us will likely use this to play the highly anticipated four-player fighting game, you can also use it to play Super Mario 3D World or Mario Kart 8. That’s because the adapter works with any game that supports Nintendo’s standard controller options.
Here’s the official text directly from Nintendo’s online store:
This adapter will allow you to connect your GameCube controller to the Nintendo Wii or Wii U. Connect your GameCube controller to your Wii or Wii U console. Compatible with all games supported by the Wii Classic Controller, Wii Classic Controller Pro and Wii U Pro Controller.
That’s pretty good news. It means that anyone with an old Wavebird or GameCube controller lying around now also has another option for local multiplayer games on Wii U (if they pick up the adapter).
While the adapter will debut as a standalone product for $20, you can get it in a bundle for $100 that also includes Smash Bros. for Wii U and a new GameCube controller. Nintendo is selling new versions of the GameCube controller for $30, so you’ll save a bit of cash if you get it all packaged together.
Of course, if you act soon, you could always pick up some authentic GameCube controllers off of eBay for a whole lot less.