Latest news with #JulianChokkatu
WIRED
16-04-2025
- Entertainment
- WIRED
Nintendo Switch 2 Backward Compatibility Looks Better Than Expected
Bad news for fans of cardboard VR headsets, though. Photograph: Julian Chokkatu; Getty Images If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. Learn more. When Nintendo officially revealed the Switch 2 back in January, it confirmed long-standing rumors that the new handheld console would enjoy backward compatibility with the games from the original Switch—physically and digitally. Good news, but there was one disclaimer: "Certain Nintendo Switch games may not be supported on or fully compatible with Nintendo Switch 2." That sent some players into, if not a panic, at least a period of confusion. Given that the original Switch launched in 2017, many have built sizable collections in that time, and the uncertainty over which among them would continue to be playable on the new generation of hardware was cause for concern. But things are looking better than expected, with the Switch 2 supporting some of the most niche titles in the Switch library, even those that required physical peripherals unique to the original hardware. In an update posted to Nintendo's official site, the company revealed that nearly 100 percent of first-party games remain compatible with Switch 2 hardware, with 'no issues found during basic compatibility testing' for 122 games published by Nintendo. On a bar chart, a tiny sliver of red, indicating 'not compatible,' amounts to just one game . Photograph: Julian Chokkatu That unfortunate outlier? Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04: VR Kit , Nintendo's ambitious build-it-yourself virtual reality headset made of cardboard. The entire Labo line was aimed at kids, providing tactile experiences where you'd build steering wheels or robot suits, then play dedicated games built around the kit-bashed gadgets. The VR Kit took things to another level, providing the materials to build rudimentary goggles and a mock blaster. When constructed, the Switch tablet slotted into place while lenses split the onscreen image into a 'My first VR'-level experience. It's that specific physical combination of console and cardboard that makes Labo VR Kit the only original Switch game incompatible with Switch 2. Nintendo explains that 'the Nintendo Switch 2 console cannot be inserted into the Toy-Con VR Goggles accessory, so this game cannot be played.' That's it. The Switch 2 simply doesn't fit the headset, so VR Kit becomes the only first-party game jettisoned into the tides of gaming history. Even other Labo games can be used on Switch 2, thanks to what may prove to be the new console's secret weapon when it comes to backward compatibility—you can still use original Switch Joy-Cons on Switch 2. Nintendo says that if 'you have Nintendo Switch Joy-Con controllers and connect them wirelessly to Nintendo Switch 2, you can play [select] games as you would on Nintendo Switch.' That's great news, opening the doors for far more of the Switch's software library to remain accessible than expected. A Healthy Choice Photograph: Julian Chokkatu Perhaps the biggest surprise is that Switch 2 will continue to support Ring Fit Adventure . When the new console was announced with that caveat about compatibility, I was sure Ring Fit would be cut from the roster, primarily because of hardware compatibility. The fitness role-playing game requires the right-hand Joy-Con controller to be physically slotted onto its Pilates-style ring peripheral, which uses a slide bracket that could not accommodate a new, magnetically connected Joy-Con 2 from the Switch 2. Much to my delight, though, you can play Ring Fit on the Switch 2. You just need to keep a pair of original Switch Joy-Cons to hand. Given that Joy-Cons can be charged using a Joy-Con charging grip or a stand-alone dock, I may not even have to keep my Switch OLED set up to keep them juiced. This is great, since it's one of the games that helped me lose a lot of weight, and aside from the health benefits, it remains genuinely fun to play. Several other first-party Nintendo games that wouldn't work natively on Switch 2 because of technological differences of the Joy-Con 2s are saved by the continued support for the classic Joy-Cons. For example, the new controllers lack the infrared motion camera built into the right-hand grip on the preceding generation, which would block 1-2-Switch! , a mini-game collection and launch title for the original Switch. Instead, you'll be able to continue to enjoy its dozens of quick-fire party games if that's your jam. For the 2023 sequel, Everybody 1-2-Switch! , it doesn't appear you'll even need the original Joy-Cons. The only compatibility warning Nintendo gives is that the volume of the haptic feedback is quieter on Joy-Con 2s, so it might make one specific mini-game a bit harder. Elsewhere, Nintendo Switch Sports , the successor to the global phenomenon Wii Sports , gets the same leg strap warning as Ring Fit Adventure (clearly a fitness game thing), while Game Builder Garage and WarioWare: Move It! require that IR reader. Back, Back, Backward Compatibility Photograph: Julian Chokkatu The Switch 2's solid backward compatibility support looks to extend to even older hardware as well. The GameCube adapter is still supported. Unlike the upcoming wireless recreation launching alongside Switch 2 to allow authentic playback of the digital GameCube games (if you subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online), these are hub-like accessories that allow up to four original, wired GameCube controllers to be connected to the Wii U, Switch, and now Switch 2. Nintendo confirms that 'this accessory can be used in TV mode by connecting via a USB Cable on the Nintendo Switch 2 dock.' I presume there'll be a small extra step involved here, as most models use a USB-A connector, so you'd presumably need a USB-A to USB-C widget to bridge the gap, since there is no USB-A port on the dock. It may be best to rein in the excitement here, though, at least for now. The GameCube adapter is only supported on the original Switch for very specific games, chiefly Super Smash Bros. Ultimate . While classic GameCube games are coming to Nintendo Switch Online for the first time with the advent of Switch 2, starting with The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, SoulCalibur II, and F-Zero GX , it's unknown if using an adapter would allow players to use original GameCube controllers on those games. We'll update as we hear more. Unfortunately, things are not so rosy with third-party games. Nintendo has identified 141 games with startup issues on the Switch 2, meaning they may not launch reliably or at all, and 47 others that boot up on the new hardware, but 'include some in-game compatibility issues.' In all cases, the company is still investigating the issue, and compatibility issues for these titles may be resolved by the June 5 launch date of the console. But it could also rise too—there are over 12,000 Switch games, so more issues could crop up, but the ratio is pretty good right now.
WIRED
05-04-2025
- Entertainment
- WIRED
How the GameCube Controller Works on Nintendo Switch 2—and How You Can Get One
One of Nintendo's best and most influential controllers is making a comeback on Switch 2, alongside a host of classic games. Photograph: Julian Chokkatu After months of silence, Nintendo has finally confirmed that the Switch 2 is coming soon, launching worldwide on June 5 (even if preorders are delayed for the US). But what accompanied that announcement was the confirmation that GameCube games will be coming to the new console, along with a dedicated controller to play them with. Although the GameCube never achieved the success of rival PS2—selling approximately 22 million units worldwide, far short of the Sony juggernaut's 160 million—it became a fan favorite. A strong library of first-party titles, including Super Mario Sunshine, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, and Metroid Prime , alongside some key third-party releases such as Resident Evil Zero and SoulCalibur II , earned it a loyal following. It was the controller that earned it a spot in gaming history though, in large part because of its compatibility with Super Smash Bros. Melee. So perfect was the symbiosis of game and controller that custom GameCube controllers have launched alongside every Smash Bros game since. A GameCube revival on Switch 2 had felt like an open secret for months. Rumors of the classic console's controller making a return had been swirling, and reports of parts involved in its manufacture seeing a surge in shipments only lent credence to the idea. Similarly, speculation was rife that GameCube games would be joining the Switch Online lineup for the Switch 2 launch. Given that Nintendo had produced wireless replica controllers for the NES, SNES, N64, and even Sega Mega Drive/Genesis to support games from those classic consoles played through Nintendo's subscription service, it was only logical that the GameCube would get the same treatment. However, it's not without a few updates and changes to the original model. So, What's Different? The biggest difference in the GameCube controller coming to the Switch 2 is that it's cordless—keeping the same overall aesthetic of the original without requiring a bulky battery pack or receiver. Front on, it looks exactly the same as the 2001 pad, right down to the signature purple hue. Face buttons sit on two 'islands' either side of the curved controller. The central green A button, smaller red B, curved X and Y satellites, and the iconic, nub-like C-stick are all present and accounted for on the right side. Then there's the D-pad on the left, and the eight-way thumbstick return, while the singular Start button sits in the middle. Looking at the top of the pad though, the differences become clearer. While the gray left and right triggers and dark purple Z shoulder button on the right hand side return, they're joined by a smaller ZL shoulder button on the left. This is presumably to maintain compatibility with any non-GameCube games users may want to play with this revised controller, though it does appear significantly smaller than a typical shoulder button. It may not make for the most comfortable of play sessions. Also visible are the Home and Screenshot buttons of the Switch, a small pairing button, four LEDs that will indicate connection to the console and which player is which, a USB-C charging port, and the brand-new C button that's coming to the Switch 2. This brings up the new system's GameChat features, activating the console's built-in mic and the menu that governs voice controls, screen sharing, and other social features. All told, it looks like the features required for the Switch 2 have been neatly integrated into the shell of the classic GameCube controller, without sacrificing the original look and feel. How to Get the Gamecube Controller for Switch 2 At present, it seems as though the official Nintendo GameCube controller for Switch 2 will only be available to purchase through Nintendo's own My Nintendo Store site. A price hasn't been announced for it yet, but as far as release date goes, Nintendo says it will be available 'the same day as Nintendo Switch 2'—so June 5. However, like the replica pads for other retro consoles, sales of the GameCube controller will be restricted to those subscribing to the Nintendo Switch Online service. That's likely Nintendo's way of preventing scalpers, but we wouldn't be surprised if supplies are stretched thin anyway, at least at launch. While a GameCube controller is going to be the most authentic way to play GameCube games on Switch 2, you won't be left out if you can't snag one. All titles will be playable on the Switch 2's own Joy-Con 2 controller duo (most likely when paired as a single controller on the updated Joy-Con 2 grip) or the new Switch 2 Pro Controller. The Switch Pro 2 Controller. Photograph: Julian Chokkatu Nintendo has also confirmed that players will be able to check controls for each game using a system menu, and even remap them according to preference. Remapping looks to be supported on both the Joy-Con 2s and the GameCube controller, which is a nice extra. How to Play GameCube Games On Switch 2 Unlike classic games getting a digital rerelease on, say, Steam, retro titles on Switch typically can't be purchased individually. Instead, access to a curated library of select titles is a benefit for subscribers to the Nintendo Switch Online service, Nintendo's answer to PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass. That looks set to be the case with GameCube games too. However, Nintendo Switch Online itself has two tiers. The basic tier, which costs $20/£18 per year, and the "Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack" tier, which costs $50/£35 per year. You'll need to be a member of the latter to access the new GameCube games, which is where they will live alongside retro libraries for N64, Game Boy Advance and Sega Mega Drive/Genesis. The important distinction is, unlike those other games, they will also only be playable on Switch 2. Even if you subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack at present, GameCube titles won't be accessible on the current Switch. It's also worth noting that the classic game libraries will be renamed to simply 'Nintendo Classics'—which should be interesting when it comes to those Sega titles … What Games Are Coming? Now we're into the fun stuff. Nintendo has confirmed that the first GameCube titles to be added to the library will be some of the classics— The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, SoulCalibur II, and F-Zero GX . All three will be available at the Switch 2 launch on June 5. It's a strong trio to kick things off— The Wind Waker remains one of the most beloved Zelda adventures, SoulCalibur II still holds up as a fighting game, and we haven't seen a new F-Zero , Nintendo's high-speed sci-fi racer, since GX itself. Still from The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker. Courtesy of Nintendo Other GameCube classics confirmed to be coming to Switch Online subscribers include Super Mario Sunshine, Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance, Pokémon Colosseum and its sequel XD: Gale of Darkness, Mario Smash Football (aka Super Mario Strikers), Chibi Robo , and Luigi's Mansion . The arrival of these games is undated at time of writing. Still from F-Zero GX. Courtesy of Nintendo Still from SoulCaliber II. Courtesy of Nintendo It appears all GameCube games will be joining the service essentially as-is (or as-was, technically), without any remastering. Nintendo does say that the games will have 'clearer image quality and higher resolution than the original releases,' but it's unclear at present if this is simply due to upscaling. One modern benefit however is that 'in games that support multiplayer, up to four can play together locally, or online.'
WIRED
03-04-2025
- Entertainment
- WIRED
We Played With the Nintendo Switch 2. It's Refined But Unsurprising
It's bigger. Nintendo has increased the handheld's size from the original 6.2-inch screen to a 7.9-inch LCD display, and magnetized its Joy-Con controllers, which are also slightly longer to accommodate the change. In my hands, the difference was barely noticeable. The Switch 2 still feels comfortable to hold and play as a handheld, neither too heavy nor too clunky; I've had more difficult tactile upgrades with my iPhone. At the event, I played the newly announced Mario Kart World both on the console itself, and on a TV with the Joy-Cons attached to a Joy-Con grip. I've always preferred the original system's handheld mode, and the experience of playing on the Switch 2 is much the same. Photograph: Julian Chokkatu Photograph: Julian Chokkatu Photograph: Julian Chokkatu The biggest change to the Joy-Con functionality is its new mouse-like mode. While the previous system's Joy-Cons slid off the handheld, those on the Switch 2 are magnetic; by clicking a release button on the controller's back, they snap off. To reattach, you simply snap them back on with a very satisfying click. But once detached from the handheld, both can be used, separately or together, as an impromptu mouse by placing them onto a surface at the point they'd typically attach. My experience with the mouse functionality was a little hit or miss. I played two games which used it: Drag X Drive, a wheelchair basketball game, and Metroid 4: Beyond. Drag x Drive, announced at the event for a summer release, uses both Joy-Cons simultaneously, with the left and right controls corresponding to their respective wheel. To move, you push the Joy-Cons against whatever surface you can find—Nintendo set up a large, flat table for the demo, but they also worked well on the surface of my clothes, including tights, which means your lap will do in a pinch. Drag X Drive is … tiring. Photograph: Julian Chokkatu Using the Joy-Con 2 in mouse mode. Photograph: Julian Chokkatu The game requires constant motion with the Joy-Cons, whether you're sliding them across whatever available surface you've got to weave across the court, spinning your virtual wheels to do tricks, or taking aim for a shot by flipping your hand in the air. Technically, this all works just fine. But physically, it's tiring. My arms got sore quickly, and unless I decide to suddenly get very good at pilates, I can't imagine long play sessions. Metroid 4: Beyond's experience was a far better one. As an admittedly terrible shot, my aim on a typical controller could use some work, and with the Joy-Cons detached and free to wave around, I'm even worse. With the new mouse functionality, however, I was able to use the right Joy-Con on a table to steady my wobbling and actually hit my targets. Most impressive about the experience was being able to seamlessly switch from regular Joy-Con controls to the mouse functionality. But according to director Takuhiro Dohta, during a developer roundtable held with press, how players are able to use the feature, is all down to the game. 'We wanted that to be an available option for developers to explore,' Dohta said. 'If a [developer] decides that it's actually better to have a setting or a switch that turns it from mouse control to Joy-Con control, that's also available.'
