Thumbsticks

The user-facing part of the analog stick assembly.

The primary thumbstick on the left side of the controller is a medium to light gray ABS plastic with a circle-textured rubber cap. The C-stick is yellow ABS plastic with a rubber cap imprinted with the letter “C”.

Common issues & repairs

The most common issue with thumbsticks is wear. Over time, the ridges on the rubber cap typically wear away due to friction, and sometimes even tear or completely come off with excessive use.

It is possible, though somewhat difficult, to replace a worn rubber cap, but usually the entire stick is replaced instead.

Loose fitting stick

Aftermarket sticks and even OEM sticks can sometimes not fit tightly on the stickbox peg. When this happens, a small piece of material like tape or plastic can be wrapped around the top of the peg to make the thumbstick grip it more snugly. For more information including some other potential solutions, check out this guide by DQ Controllers.

Stick rubbing on shell

Aftermarket sticks often sit too low, which makes the rubber stick cap rub on the top of the gate. To fix it, a tiny ball of tin foil or another hard object can be inserted in the stick’s slot to make it sit higher on the stickbox peg. For photos and alternate solutions, see this guide by DQ Controllers.

Replacements

There is no consistent source for standalone OEM thumbsticks, new or used, except for other GCCs. Resin sticks are a popular alternative, especially because they can be made in practically any color, with or without OEM-like rubber caps.

Where to get OEM sticks

  • Other GameCube controllers
  • Modders occasionally sell overstock

Other good stick options

Thumbsticks from certain other Nintendo controllers are compatible with GCC stickboxes, and some players even prefer the alternate feel they have.

  • Wii Nunchuck sticks fit in a GCC, but are taller than standard GCC sticks and have a slightly different rubber cap design.
  • Wii Classic Controller sticks fit in a GCC and have the same rubber cap design as Nunchuck sticks.
  • Sticks from the Wii U Pro Controller and Wii U Gamepad fit in a GGC and are shorter than the Wii Classic Controller and Nunchuck sticks, closer in size to the OEM GCC sticks.
  • Resin sticks are available in many varieties, from OEM profile to custom shapes like Spicy Sticks, which are often recommended for players who prefer a grippier surface. Resin sticks are made with and without OEM-like rubber caps.

Sticks to avoid

Many online retailers sell knockoff GCC thumbsticks, which are typically very cheaply made and ill-fitting, and often don’t last more than a few weeks with regular use. These sticks are usually made to look very similar to OEM ones, so always be sure you’re getting actual OEM or hand-casted resin before purchasing.

  • Amazon
  • eBay
  • Etsy (except for handmade resin ones)
  • Retro gaming shops (except for handmade resin ones)

Resources

Jon of NoJonsMods made a thorough write-up of what to look for when searching for replacement buttons and sticks.