Back in the day, there was nothing better than playing video games on your GameCube. Those memories come flooding back when you pick up a controller that feels like it’s been molded to fit your hand perfectly.
But what if you want to play your favorite old-school GameCube games on your PC? Sure, you could try using a generic emulator, but it’s just not the same without an actual GameCube controller.
Though it’s been years since that console was released by Nintendo, GameCube controllers still have a place in many hearts – including mine. So when I discovered I could use my old Gamecube controller on my PC, I was overjoyed!
Here’s how to do it. Read on for step-by-step instructions.
What you need
In order to use a GameCube controller on a PC, you need the following items:
- A GameCube controller
- A Nintendo or third-party USB adapter
- The drivers for the GameCube adapter
- The software for your game emulator
How to connect Gamecube controllers to your PC
The controller can be connected to your PC using an adapter’s gray USB plug. You can find the best GameCube controller adapter on Amazon or other online retailers. Once you have the adapter, plug it into your PC and then plug in the controller.
Sometimes your OS will automatically install the drivers for the controller. You can then start playing your favorite games on your PC. You can use GameCube controllers in any Steam game by using a program called ‘Dolphin emulator.’
There is also third-party software that accomplishes the same thing, such as Xpadder. The downside to these programs is that they don’t always support all of the buttons on the controller, but if you don’t mind sacrificing a few buttons, those other options work well for PC gaming. Here is the step-by-step process on How to Use GameCube Controller on PC.
1. First, plug the PC adapter into an open USB port
Locate the cable attached to the controller and slide it into an open slot on the PC adapter so that it fits snugly in place. This procedure differs depending on the brand of GameCube adapter you purchased, but generally, there should be a small piece of plastic covering one of the USB ports. Be careful not to accidentally disconnect it while data is transferring between the devices.
2. You also need to install the drivers for your GameCube adapter
To install the drivers for your PC adapter, you need to first download and extract the drivers on your computer. These drivers are unique to the brand of USB adapter you previously purchased, so check the user manual or website that came with it for specific installation process instructions. You can then plug in your GameCube controller adapter to your computer and open the Device Manager.
3. After everything has been plugged in, test out your controller
Do this step by opening up your Dolphin emulator or any other software and clicking on “Configure.” You will then need to select the input device that you are using. After that, you can test out the buttons and those clickable analgesic sticks to make sure they are working properly. The controller layout is usually set out like this: A, B, C, Y, X, Shoulder Buttons (L and R) – Start Button (usually bottom left) – Right Analog Stick (clickable) – Left Analog Stick (clickable).
4. Make sure all of the controller settings seem to fit your needs
When configuring the settings, you will want to make sure that all settings fit your needs. You can do this by adjusting the configuration options to match your preferences. For example, you can adjust the button layout and vibration intensity to ensure they are set up the way you want them.
Additionally, you can customize the control mapping to create a more personalized experience. Please note that some emulators may need special configurations for certain GameCube games to work correctly.
5. Finally, you may want to calibrate your controller
This way, it fits the action on screen more accurately. To do this, go to your emulator’s Settings menu and find the option relating to input or joystick settings. If there is a calibration button, click that, then press down all of your GameCube controller buttons one at a time and record the results shown on the screen. Afterward, check over your controller layout again and make sure everything feels right for gameplay. That’s it, you already know how to use the GameCube controller on a PC.
Setting it up on Steam
To use a GameCube controller on a PC, you need to have Steam installed on your computer. Once Steam is installed, connect your GameCube controller to your computer using a USB cable. Open Steam and click on the “Settings” icon. Scroll down to the “Controller” tab and click on “General Controller Settings”. Under “Controller Type”, select “Gamecube Controller”. Click on the “Button Mapping” tab and configure the buttons to match your preferences. Click on the “Save Changes” button. Your Gamecube controller should now be configured to work with Steam. The next time you open Steam, it should automatically detect the controller.
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Playing your favorite games with a GameCube controller adapter
Playing your favorite games is very simple. First, you will need to purchase a GameCube controller adapter for a PC. There are several different adapters available on the market, so make sure to choose the best GameCube controller adapter, the one that is compatible with your computer.
Once you have the adapter, plug it into one of your computer’s USB ports and connect your GameCube controller to the adapter. Now you’re ready to play!
The adapter should automatically configure itself to work with your favorite games. However, in case this automatic configuration doesn’t happen, just follow the manual configuration steps mentioned earlier.
There are many different great games that you can play with Gamecube controllers, including Super Smash Bros, Nickelodeon All-Stars Brawl, Rocket League, Mario Tennis Aces, and more. So don’t wait any longer – get yourself a GameCube controller adapter and play your favorite games with the classic controller today!
Additional tips and tricks
You can do a few more things to use the GameCube controller on PC even more comfortable and fun. Here are some tips:
- If you’re having trouble getting your controller to connect to your PC’s port, try using a USB extension cable. This can help if there’s not enough room for the cable to reach directly from the controller to the PC.
- If you’re playing a game that requires the keyboard and mouse, you can still use your GameCube controller by mapping the keyboard and mouse controls to the buttons on your controller. This can be helpful if you want to keep your hands on the controller while playing.
- You can also use your GameCube controller to control other devices, such as your PS3 or Xbox 360. All you have to do is download software that will allow you to connect your controller to other devices, and you’re done.
- You can also play PC games with emulators for consoles like the NES or SNES. Some of these games are best played with a GameCube controller.
Good luck! And have fun playing PC games with your favorite controllers.
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Final thoughts
The GameCube controller is an iconic piece of gaming history. It’s been around for over 20 years, and it continues to be popular today. Playing your favorite games with the GameCube controller on PC can feel like a breath of fresh air in this era, where many gamers are using controllers that share similar button layouts.
Luckily for you, we have all the information you need about connecting your console’s controller to your PC. But if you want to use the old-school gamepad on Steam or any other application, you may need some help getting set up properly first. Find out what type of adapter you’ll need (and how much they cost), which connection methods work best, and more tips and tricks that can make your gaming experience even better.
It’s worth noting that some information is not going to apply to any GameCube controller other than the standard “Official Nintendo GameCube Controller” or a third-party manufacturer. Some GameCube controllers use wireless technology, which requires an entirely different set of instructions to work correctly.
While we recommend you find out if your device uses a wireless or USB connection before reading this guide, most GameCube controllers will use USB cables to connect to your PC. Remember that not all USB adapters will work with every controller, so always be sure you’re using an original or well-known third-party adapter before buying one.
GameCube controllers are some of the most comfortable controllers ever made. They’re perfect for gaming on PC when you know how to set them up. In this article, we’ve shown you how to connect your GameCube controller to your PC and configure it for use with Steam games. We’ve also shared a few tips and tricks that will make your gaming experience even more enjoyable. Now it’s time for you to get out there and start playing your favorite old-school and modern games.