8BitDo’s new Bluetooth mod kit puts GameCube controllers back into play

8BitDo announced it's taking preorders for a new mod kit that lets you retrofit a wired GameCube controller with Hall effects joysticks and Bluetooth connectivity. The company is charging $25.98 for the kit, which it says is a simple, solderless mod.

8BitDo has made a few of these in the past for old Nintendo controllers, including those for the N64 and earlier consoles, and now it's the GameCube's turn. The kit replaces your controller's existing PCB with a drop-in board that has Hall effects joysticks and a USB-C-rechargeable 300mAh battery attached. It also comes with a trigger pack, and 8BitDo says the battery will get 6 hours of playtime between charges. It's compatible with the Switch and Android, according to the product page.

The catch is that you're replacing its wired controller option, and you'll have to pick up a separate, $25.98 8BitDo "Retro Receiver for GCN" to connect it to your GameCube. Undoing the conversion could be a little tricky - a video installation guide on the page includes a step for cutting the cable that powers the vibration motor - so you'll want to consider that if you prize gaming hardware preservation.

Still, plenty of GameCube controllers have endured abuse in the last two-plus decades; I'd certainly consider it if I had one lying around that had drifting analog sticks or a cord that's been chewed up by pets or cut off by scissor-happy children. For a less invasive wireless controller transition, though, there's always 8BitDo's GBros. adapter.

8BitDo says it will start shipping the new mod kit on September 25th.