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Every Glorious GameCube Classic Coming to Switch 2’s Online Library
April 3, 2025The Nintendo Switch 2 will launch with a GameCube library on Switch Online, bringing fan-favorite classics like Wind Waker, Sunshine, and Fire Emblem to a new generation.
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Nintendo’s Big GameCube Throwback for Switch 2
If you’ve been quietly holding onto your dusty old GameCube and whispering, “They’ll come back… they have to come back,” your prayers to the retro gods have been answered. Nintendo just announced that GameCube games are officially coming to the Nintendo Switch 2, and they’re launching on day one.
No, you didn’t misread that. It’s not just a tease or a slow rollout—this is a full-blown nostalgic comeback, and we’re absolutely here for it. Launching on June 5—the same day as the Switch 2—these classics will be available under the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack tier. If you’re subscribed, you’ll be able to dive straight into the golden age of purple lunchbox glory.
And the best part? These games are getting upgraded visuals, customizable controls, and yes, there’s even a newly designed wireless GameCube-style controller on the way. It’s all the vibes of 2002 but with 2025 tech. Let’s break down every confirmed GameCube gem Nintendo’s bringing to the table. And no, it’s not just Mario and Zelda—although, obviously, they’re here too.
The Confirmed Lineup
The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker
One of the most charming Zelda games ever created, Wind Waker returns with its bold cel-shaded visuals that still somehow look better than half the games released this year. This is the one where Link sails the vast seas to rescue his sister, and in the process, uncovers a whole world drowning in lore and Triforce pieces. Wind Waker already has a cult following, but this Switch 2 edition? It’s ready to sail into the hearts of a brand new audience.
Super Mario Sunshine
Sunshine was divisive back in the day—some adored it, some just wanted their long jumps back. But one thing’s for sure: playing as Mario with a water-powered jetpack on a tropical island is just… different. In a good way. And now, with smoother framerates and remappable controls, it’s the perfect time to revisit Isle Delfino and clear Shadow Mario’s mess (again). Also, admit it: you missed F.L.U.D.D.
F-Zero GX
This isn’t just high-speed racing. It’s hold-onto-your-face levels of velocity. The return of F-Zero GX is like a nod from Nintendo that yes, Captain Falcon deserves better than just Smash appearances. This version brings online and local four-player racing, so you can destroy friendships and warp your sense of speed at the same time.
Soulcalibur II (with Link!)
Let’s be real—this one’s coming back for one reason: Link with a Master Sword and four costumes. Soulcalibur II is still one of the best fighting games ever, and now it’s handheld-ready and just begging for spontaneous couch duels.
Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance
Before Three Houses stole the spotlight, Path of Radiance was the deep-cut Fire Emblem fans held close to their hearts. With Ike at the helm, rich world-building, and challenging turn-based battles, it’s a cornerstone of the series. Also, yes—this is the one with Game Boy Advance connectivity. No promises on that feature coming back, but we can dream.
Prepare Your Poké Balls
Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness
Shadow Pokémon? An evil Lugia? Turn-based RPG combat with cinematic flair? Gale of Darkness was a bold spin-off, and for many, it was their first taste of a Pokémon title with a real narrative edge. Now, with better resolution and smoother animations, it’s finally back to claim its place among the greats.
Pokémon Colosseum
And yes, XD’s gritty older sibling is back too. Colosseum paved the way for console Pokémon games to go beyond “just battling,” and gave us Wes, a protagonist with goggles and an attitude. It’s gritty, it’s nostalgic, and its music still slaps.
The Wild Cards You Forgot You Loved
Super Mario Strikers
Ah yes, the Mario game where friendship ends faster than a red shell at close range. Strikers gave us soccer, but make it Mario Kart. With bananas, electric fences, and goalies that feel like they took pre-workout. Now back with online modes and sharper controls, expect chaos—and fun—in equal measure.
Luigi’s Mansion
Before Luigi became the awkward meme we all love, Luigi’s Mansion was his big break. Trapped in a haunted house with nothing but a flashlight and a vacuum, he proved he could carry a franchise on his own (literally and emotionally). And yes, the Poltergust has never looked better.
Chibi-Robo
A tiny robot with a big heart, Chibi-Robo is all about cleaning, helping people, and collecting Happy Points. But somehow, it’s also a low-key emotional narrative about family, loneliness, and the meaning of purpose. It’s weird, wonderful, and criminally underrated. Welcome back, tiny friend.
Let’s not pretend this isn’t a huge deal. The GameCube era has long been the white whale of Nintendo’s retro libraries. NES? Covered. SNES? Done. N64? Already on Switch Online. GameCube? Not a peep—until now. Bringing these classics to the Switch 2 Online Expansion Pack is more than fan service. It’s Nintendo saying, “Yeah, we know these games matter.” It also hints at a promising future—more games added over time, possibly third-party entries (Metal Gear Solid: Twin Snakes, anyone?), and maybe even some long-lost Japanese exclusives.
Plus, with the bonus of enhanced features like save states, HD rendering, and that delicious new wireless GameCube controller, these aren’t just ports. They’re revivals.
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