Skip to main content

This GameCube controller adapter gives you more options for ‘Smash Bros.’

Image used with permission by copyright holder

The Nintendo Switch supports a wired controller adapter that also functions with the Wii U, giving you the ability to plug four GameCube controllers into your console for games like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. It’s a fine option if you have people over to your house, but it doesn’t let you enjoy the same experience on the go. Accessory company 8BitDo looks to change that with the “GBros.” wireless adapter, and it should look familiar to fans of the Wii.

The GBros. wireless adapter connects to a traditional GameCube controller and uses Bluetooth to communicate with your Switch. This essentially turns your wired GameCube controller into a wireless one, so you don’t have to let its cord length dictate where you sit to play it. Because Nintendo’s own GameCube adapter plugs into the USB port on the Switch’s dock, it can’t be used in handheld or tabletop modes, but the GBros. has no such limitations.

Recommended Videos

If you decide to play a different game on your Switch and need to use a separate controller, you can do so. Along with the GameCube controller, the GBros. also supports the NES Classic and NES Classic controllers, along with the Wii Classic controller — perfect for playing the Nintendo Switch Online free games.

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Because the GameCube controller doesn’t have a “home” or “screenshot” button, these functions are still handled by the GBros. adapter. The buttons are designed to look like they came from the original purple GameCube, as well, so your retro aesthetic will be kept intact. With 30 hours of battery life, you shouldn’t have any issue playing in Smash Bros. Ultimate marathons, either, provided that your Switch has a power source.

Please enable Javascript to view this content

As an added bonus, the GBros. adapter also works with your PC. We’re not exactly sure why you’d want to use a GameCube controller on PC unless you’re making use of something like the Dolphin emulator, but the option is there!

The GBros. wireless adapter is available to pre-order for $20. It will ship on December 7, the same date that Super Smash Bros. Ultimate launches for Nintendo Switch. Other 8BitDo Switch products are also available, including wireless retro-style controllers.

Gabe Gurwin
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Gabe Gurwin has been playing games since 1997, beginning with the N64 and the Super Nintendo. He began his journalism career…
Best commander promotions in Civilization 7
An army at the ready in Civilization 7.

In older Civilization titles, each unit you had in a military could earn XP and eventually level up. Now, with Civilization 7, things have changed and new tips and tricks are needed in your combat tactics. Commanders are a brand new unit type that are the only ones who can level up and will carry over into new Ages. They work quite differently since they don't engage in combat directly, but the various skills can greatly increase your army's potential. Because they are the only unit that earns promotions, they come with multiple skill trees that take a lot of XP to work through. Being such a key part of the game, similar to Influence, we wanted to run you through the best promotions you should unlock with your commanders.
Best commander promotions to unlock
Commanders don't directly attack other units in Civilization 7, but have two other very important functions. First is that they can "pack" adjacent units. This will bring four (or more with upgrades) normal units and have them all move as one with the commander. This makes moving armies way more efficient and allows for tactical assaults and retreats.

The other function is providing buffs and coordinated moves to nearby units. Just having a commander next to your army grants various buffs (again, based on upgrades), plus the option to command multiple units to attack a single target at the same time.

Read more
Wanderstop is brewing up a clever twist on the cozy genre
Alta operates a tea machine in Wanderstop.

I’ve got some mixed feelings on the “cozy” game genre these days. When I was first getting into the original Animal Crossing, it almost felt like a counterculture release. It was an antidote to action-packed video games that was wholly unique in tone and spirit. That success has only grown in recent years, turning cozy games into the same kind of industry it once felt like an answer to. More and more games feel like they’re following the same laid back playbook, and that can get old after a while.

Wanderstop could be the game to disrupt that pattern, or at least shake it up enough. The upcoming debut from Ivy Road, founded by indie veterans behind games like The Stanley Parable and Gone Home, sounds familiar on paper. It’s a tea shop simulator that has players planting their own ingredients and serving drinks to customers. If you love the genre, you’ve undoubtedly played something like it in the past few years. But there’s more to Wanderstop than meets the eye, at least based on what I experienced in a hands-on preview with its intriguing first hour.

Read more
How to join the Splitgate 2 open alpha
A colorful arena from Splitgate 2.

There have already been a few closed tests for the upcoming video game Splitgate 2, but these have been restricted to select players. Ever since the first one made a big splash in the FPS community, excitement for the sequel has been growing. The full game still doesn't have a release date, but we are getting an open alpha test where anyone can test out a handful of maps, modes, and weapons before it comes out. Since this test is free, there's no reason not to jump in! Here's everything you need to know about joining the Splitgate 2 open alpha and what you can expect.
How to join the Splitgate 2 open alpha
Open Alpha Teaser Trailer | Splitgate 2

The Splitgate 2 open alpha will be available to all players on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. As soon as the test begins on February 27, visit the game's store page on your platform of choice and you will be free to download the alpha and get into the action. There are no restrictions or need to sign up beforehand.

Read more