How to Use a GameCube Controller on Wii

You need a GameCube Controller Adapter. The Wii (RVL-001) has four GameCube controller ports hidden under a flip-down cover on top. The Wii Family Edition (RVL-101) and Wii Mini remove these ports—adapter required for those models.

Original Wii (RVL-001, 2006–2011)

1. Open flap on top of console (front).
2. Plug GameCube controller directly into Port 1–4.
3. Works natively: Super Smash Bros. Brawl, Mario Kart Wii, Mario Party 8/9, Twilight Princess, Metroid Prime Trilogy, most Wii games with GCN support.
4. Homebrew (Nintendont) enables GCN games on Wii via GCN controller.

Wii Family Edition / Wii Mini / Wii U

• No GCN ports. Require Wii U GameCube Controller Adapter (official, USB) or Mayflash 4-Port Adapter (USB, works on Wii U, Switch, PC).
• Plug adapter into Wii/Wii U USB port (back).
• Plug GCN controllers into adapter.
• Wii U: Works in Wii Mode + Smash 4 + homebrew (Nintendont).
• Wii (Family Edition): Only works with homebrew (Nintendont) — official Wii software doesn't recognize USB adapter.

Adapter Options

Game Compatibility

• Full support: Brawl, MKWii, MP8/9, Twilight Princess, MP Trilogy, Mario Strikers Charged.
• Partial: Some Wii games only support Wii Remote / Classic Controller.
• Check: Game manual / back of case → "Compatible with Nintendo GameCube Controller."