Earlier today we bemoaned the price hikes and lacking stock of the GameCube Adapter for Wii U, which doesn't appear to be improving after over a week in North America and at launch in Europe. That's a pity, especially if it means some of those with Super Smash Bros. for Wii U can't enjoy the game with their controller of choice.
The special edition GameCube controller is also hard to find, but as highlighted by Tiny Cartridge the upcoming release of the game in Japan also brings with it the controllers, and an opportunity to pick them up. We use the plural for controller deliberately, as Japan has a lovely white version available, too.
Well known import retailer Play-Asia has pre-order stock for both, either the black version or the Japan-only white equivalent. They're just GameCube controllers, so they'll work on any GameCube or backward compatible Wii worldwide. They're available at a price more sane than those being thrown around on eBay, plus the white one could be a unique addition to your collection.
We should add that the adapter appears to have region-specific versions (all sold out on Play-Asia, it should be added), though as the controllers are global we can't envisage compatibility issues with an adapter; it's the adapter's region that must match your system.
These controllers — even the white one — are in stock for pre-order at this stage; are you tempted?
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[source tinycartridge.com]
Comments 54
Looks nice
Cannot see why it would be worth it. The White ones made originally for Wii users (Longer Cord) are very cheap in Japan new and sealed. (Seems impossible the new ones will be better).
Looks tempting but once it's at a reasonable price and if the cord length isn't short as shown in the picture above.
Play-asia are selling them for import everyone !!
Let's how Ninty hasn't figured out how to region lock controllers laughs woefully
The adapters are region locked? Seriously? Is that why they cant make enough, the tech used to region lock the adapter? I give up.
Region locking these is just pathetic, how can they even do it.
To be honest I don't even want one anymore.
Eh, I'll go pick up 3 for $10 at a garage sale.
Why does everyone hate GameCube controllers all of a sudden? Fox and the grapes, anyone?
@swampertdude My thoughts exactly. Comprehensive reading also seems to be a struggle nowadays...
@TheRealThanos it really is, its not like Nintendo made these things just to discontinue them the next day. Patience is a virtue, people
I want the GameCube controller and adapter, and I'll get it eventually, but when there's more stock available. I'm sure Nintendo will be making more of these if they're selling that well. I just hope they'll make more use of them if they sell really well.
Ewwwww.....I really don't like white electronics and accessories. Not sure I even need more GameCube controllers but I'm tempted by the wario 3rd party one.
@Porky The product description lists cord length as 10 ft. It's a shame that I can only preorder one of these; There's too much up for grabs in too short of a timeframe!
@rjejr Of course the controllers aren't region locked. Don't be ridiculous...
EDIT: My apologies, you were referring to the actual adapters. For such a simple device, I don't quite understand how they could be region locked. Usually software is needed to identify region specific code, or the male end of the plug is not compatible.
I've imported several controllers from Japan, notably the Gold Nunchuk, Gold Wii Wheel and Gold Wii Controller Pro. I might be tempted to import this white Smash GC controller, though there are many other far more rare GC controllers I might rather have. Like the white/turquoise GC controller that was exclusive to Club Nintendo Japan.
Meh, controller from the past.
Sweet cant say no to one of the best controllers of all time
You know; every time I see something like this for Wii U, another controller option (like these GC ones), I can't help but think how Nintendo has failed with its controller solution(s) for the system. On all the other platforms basically one controller, the standard one you get with the console, perfectly covers pretty much every game you can play on these consoles. The idea of even suggesting you'd need to get an old Playstation controller to play some mainstream first party PS4 game in its ideal configuration is just absurd. Outside of Wiimotes so you can play specific motion controlled games, which is understandable, I really think the GamePad should have been the only other controller available for Wii U and if that creates issues with multiplayer games then it just suggests this is maybe something Nintendo needed to think about harder.
I do like the GC controllers though and still think they have arguably the most ergonomically comfortable shape of any standard controller.
@JaxonH - Wait, I'm ridiculous when you thought that I said the controllers were region locked, but you would give Nintendo a pass for region locking the adapters? That doesn't seem fair, more like splitting hairs.
Apology accepted anyway.
Oh, and a Google search doesn't give any impression of the adapters being region locked, so maybe I read it wrong the 7 times I read this paragraph:
"We should add that the adapter appears to have region-specific versions (all sold out on Play-Asia, it should be added), though as the controllers are global we can't envisage compatibility issues with an adapter; it's the adapter's region that must match your system."
@rjejr
Idk, not give them a pass, I just personally don't care that much. I have an adapter already and don't need to import one. But if you're asking if I think it's ridiculous, then the answer is a resounding yes, I just don't think it's nearly as big a deal as if a controller were actually region locked. That would just be absurd (though again, I have my doubts that the adapter is locked, because without software code the system has no way of recognizing what region it's from, and the only other way to region lock is to have incompatible plugs)
@JaxonH - I assumed if this article was correct and the adapter was region locked it would have some kind of handshaking chip installed similar to HDCP over HDMI cables between tvs and cable boxes.
If an amiibo can open the Moscow metro why not have a region locked adapter?
@rjejr So it turns out that Amiibo didn't open that door at Metro, it just reacted to the RFID chip by blinking green. But the door wouldn't open. Kind of like having a wrong key that still slides in the key hole, but won't turn.
But maybe you're right. I'd be interested to get confirmation one way or another.
@WaveWarlock Until Nintendo actually improves and evolves the gamecube, I'll stick with that. The pro controller is a step BACK in many ways. I see people bring this up a lot, people saying players need to evolve with the times. If the controller didn't evolve, and did the opposite, then by using that controller I'm playing in a less evolved way. The 2nd joystick placement is terrible for smash, the triggers are terrible, the face buttons are cheap and mushy, the triggers are non-pressure sensitive and not analog, and the joysticks don't feel so good compared to the cubes. I'm not trying to make fun of anyone or be mean or offensive, I'm just stating why many people stick to the cubes. Just cause Nintendo went cheap on their controllers doesn't mean we have to. On top of all that by the way, every button and joystick feels like it was shaped and positioned for smash specifically.
@swampertdude Either they don't have one or can't afford it, or just don't know how much better it is for smash than any other option available lol.
@Copper_Kidd
I use the GC controller with Smash because the button placement and C-stick just seem to be made for the game. But I still love the Pro Controller. I actually like the analog placement. Granted, the GC controller does seem a better fit for Smash but overall, the analogs are placed exactly where my thumbs rest, without having an awkward reach. It does work well for Smash too, but Idk I just like the GC controller.
Other than that though, I really can't say I agree about the controller not evolving. I think the ergonomics and analog placement of Pro Controller are the best ever not just for a Nintendo console, but any console. The X1 controller comes in a close second, but the RB/RL are an awkward reach. Never had a problem with the buttons, they work just fine for me. As far as the triggers, I'm actually glad they didn't go with analog. Digital works much better for button response. I do understand a few select games use analog but they're never the games I play and rarely on the Wii U anyways. I hate using analog triggers for the 99% of games that use them as a button. Huge pet peeve of mine on the Dualshock 4. Though the X1 controller does a fine job of detecting the ever so slightest pressure, which somewhat negates the issue for me.
The only real complaint I have with the Pro Controller is lack of a headphone jack. But considering how it excels in pretty much every other area, I'm willing to forgive that one shortcoming.
But, the good thing about Nintendo consoles is they usually provide multiple controller options. So we can all play the way we like, or at the very least not be limited to just a single option like most other consoles.
I'm using the black one because it goes with my console. The Smash logo stands out more, too. If I were nostalgic for the GameCube, however, I would probably splurge on one because it looks just like the classic GameCube controller.
I got the Wii-era white one with the three metre cord because I don't find playing gamecube games on my Japanese Wii using a CCPRO and an adapter satisfying due to button placement and mapping. I used to have one of these and they're great except for the d-pad which seems to suck on all the gamecube controllers, surprisingly.
I'm surprised the new Smash edition controller is hard to find; I ordered mine from the UK Nintendo shop for £25 - only a couple of quid more than the Japanese Gamecube controller cost. I'm hoping it will also have a three metre cord (though I have a GC extension cord if not) and I'm hoping it will have a better d-pad, but I doubt it.
Love to get one of the multitaps to play Smash with too, so hopefully Nintendo will make more to suit demand!
Might import one as I always liked the white ones.
@unrandomsam Besides, the link on here says it's available Dec. 6 and 10 dollars more than getting it now on Amazon.com
The Smash Bros controllers are available in USA at Walmart.com! Hurry before they sell out!!! Can't find the adapter yet. Not online or in store other than eBay.
I would like to remind everyone that the official ethernet adapter by Nintendo is also region locked. They stopped making them a few years ago. Do not buy imports from ebay becuase it will not work
Are you sure the adapters must match your region? Did you positively test this? I've seen folks online say they tested it, and the adapters work on any console. I just ordered one from the UK and I live in the USA, so I'd like to know if that is a FOR SURE thing, Nintendo Life.
@Blue-Thunder How do you know they are not region locked?
@Blue-Thunder
It is not the controller I am worried about, it's the stupid adapter for the controller I am worried about being region locked.
Nintendo! Too many controllers! Either pick the GameCube controller and evolve it for the next system or stick with the new pro!
As someone already said, and I agree, you wouldn't see a ps4 game using a ps1 controller and you wouldn't see an xbone using and original Xbox controller.
Keep it simple Ninty! One controller per system and make it the best you can.
Seriously, Ninty fanatics are mad, and won't move with the times, controller wise.
And yes I know the GameCube controller was the 'best' bla bla bla, but if Ninty thought that too don't cha think they would have stayed with the design and evolved it since?
wish they would make a WII U PRO controller wireless bluetooth but gamecube controller.
@Luffy That would seem to have been a more sensible compromise given no other Wii U games support GameCube controllers, but nearly all support Pro Controllers.
Plus there's the fight pad that acts like a Classic Controller Pro. I'm frankly surprised these adapters have sold out, unless there was a very low number produced - could there be that many people holding GameCubes ready to buy Wii Us to play Smash?
Although I love the GC controller I can't justify spending around £40 for one and an adaptor to play with cables when I picked up 2 pro controllers brand new for £9.99 each!
You sexy thing you!
Looks cool but, don't want it, don't need it.
I couldn't resist and ordered the Japan-Exclusive white GC controller. What the hey; I can still use it with my original Game Cube games. Slightly cheaper than the $29.99 US retail price, except shipping is half the cost of the controller.
As for the adapter, I'm not interested unless they patch in support for use in multiple games. 8-player Smash is meaningless to me as being an adult with non-gaming family, I rarely have friends over.
But is this piece of tech really region locked? What about the Wii LAN adapter someone mentioned? Sounds pointless to me to lock accessories. Nintendo did it once before by putting dummy resistors in the PAL SNES to prevent it working with Super Famicom Controllers, but there are mods available to defeat this aspect.
Looks nice, but only for one game? really? No thanks! At the end it has the same function as any other controller. If you're looking for a second controller it might be a good deal, but for a show off??? No way
I can't get my hands on an adapter and I'm unwilling to over-pay for the adapter on Amazon or Ebay. I'm disappointed. I can buy as many GC controllers as I want at Target, Best Buy, Toys R Us, and Walmart; but I can't buy the adapter to use them. I think Nintendo should have made the plug connect to the Wiimotes instead, but maybe there's a reason for not doing this and I missed it.
On a side note, we have a pro controller on the way and we've been using a classic and gamepad with success.
I would but i have the white gamecube controller they released for the wii. the cord is longer than the smash ones.
Can someone shed some light on Wii U's GameCube-style controllers?
There's this one:
http://www.amazon.com/Super-Smash-GameCube-Controller-Wii-U/dp/B00L3LQ4B4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1417475674&sr=8-1&keywords=wii+u+gamecube+controller
And this one:
http://www.amazon.com/HORI-Battle-Mario-Version-Turbo-u/dp/B00ND0E5ZU/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1417475674&sr=8-2&keywords=wii+u+gamecube+controller
Is there any difference?
Why such a seperation in price?
Do they both need an adapter?
Will they both play games other than SSB?
@Thats-what-shy The red controller is actually a pro controller disguised as a GameCube controller, as you can easily see by the double pair of shoulder buttons and all the extra Wii (U) buttons in the middle. It does not need an adapter: you simply connect it to your Wii remote to be able to use it on the Wii or Wii U. And the shoulder buttons are digital. The other one, the REAL Smash Bros Wii U controller is an actual GameCube controller, with only two (analog) shoulder buttons and comes with a 4 player adapter for the Wii U, which is what accounts for the price difference. I don't know why they haven't got that in the description, though. Maybe you should call or email them first to be sure that the adapter is indeed included in the price/package.
The red one can be used in all games that support a classic controller pro in Wii or Wii U mode, the other one is only compatible with Smash Bros, at least for now. Maybe they will release a firmware update or something if demand is high or if they publish other games that may offer an option to play with a real GameCube controller on Wii U.
On a side note: if you buy the black controller and you still have the old Wii that's GameCube compatible, you can also use the controller for that, since there are actually quite a few Wii games that support the GameCube controller:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Wii_games_that_use_the_Nintendo_GameCube_controller
Hope that helps.
@TheRealThanos Thank you so very much for the thorough and informative response. I've had a heck of a time trying to figure out the specifics on each of these controllers.
Too bad about the SSB controller not being compatible (yet) with any other titles.
That said, I'm still leaning toward the SSB controller, provided it comes with the adapter at the price listed on Amazon's page.
It seems I'm the only one that looks at these controllers as valuable collectables.
@Thats-what-shy You're very welcome. I'd just give 'em a call if I were you. They probably have a helpdesk or something or just send an inquiry by email. Don't forget the article nr. and such or you'll spend more time mailing them than you would like to.
So I'm guessing you don't have a backwards compatible Wii then, since you stated to only be able to use the controller for SSB?
I myself would also go for the original, the controls just feel better and the analog shoulder buttons make for a more ergonomic experience in my humble opinion, also because of the way they are shaped vs the ones on the pro controller.
@TheRealThanos I'm not as concerned with backwards compatibility. I have a WaveBird for my GC VC titles. I just prefer the look and construction of the black controller. Plus, I've read a lot of positive reviews regarding the tight control, which is key for SSB (even though I'm the worst at that game).
@Thats-what-shy No, I think you misunderstood me there. I meant in regard to the list of Wii games compatible with the GameCube controller: Even if the Wii U had GameCube compatibility, you'd still not have the controller ports on the hardware and it is seriously doubtful if GameCube VC is ever going to come to this generation. I'm betting on the next console for that.
This time around some more HD remakes might be coming and maybe some of them will be made compatible with the 4 player adapter, but other than that you would need an original series one Wii with GameCube ports to be able to use the controller on more games. (don't know if you own any on that list I linked to)
To give you an example: I use the GameCube controller on the Wii with Need for Speed Nitro, Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3, The Naruto games, SNK Arcade Classics Vol. 1, Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All Stars, Muramasa: The Demon Blade, Metal Slug Anthology, Klonoa and Super Smash Bros. Brawl, obviously...
Right. I use my Wavebird on my series 1 Wii via the wi-fi adapter that I plug into the GC controller ports on top.
Still love the wavebird.
@Thats-what-shy Aha, now we're getting somewhere. Good that you have the WaveBird. I never got into that controller myself, because of the lack of rumble support once I was used to that in certain games. For my Wii I have two third party wireless GameCube controllers:
This one: (D3mon wireless GC controller)
http://www.gamemania.eu/game_images/games/000000000000021600_GM_SCREEN_0001_M.JPG
and this one: (Q-Ware Wireless GC)
http://www.dazzlegames.com/productimages/GC-WIRELESS-1.jpg
Both are quite sturdy and have lasted for 3 years now with extensive use, AND they have rumble so I could recommend those to anyone still looking for that. They are also cheap and would of course work with the Wii U's 4 player adapter as well.
Guys these are truly gorgeous pads! I've got some up on eBay brand new and with an included gc controller to wii remote adapter! I'm based in the UK and am guaranteeing delivery before Xmas if bought in time!
Please feel free to share with anyone you may think could be interested!
http://pages.ebay.com/link/?nav=item.view&id=291330094728&alt=web
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