In the wake of the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, excitement is palpable as fans explore the latest announcements. A particularly thrilling addition is the inclusion of the GameCube library in the Nintendo Switch Online retro consoles. However, it comes with a caveat: the GameCube offerings will be exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, meaning original Switch and OLED models will not gain access to this new feature.
The revamped Nintendo Switch Online classic game library, which is set to be rebranded as Nintendo Classics, will unveil a selection of beloved GameCube titles. While the current list of confirmed games is limited, anticipation is high for more to be revealed during the actual launch period. As seen with other classic game libraries, we can expect periodic updates in subsequent Nintendo Direct presentations.
10 Rescue Shadow Pokémon In Pokémon Colosseum
Take On The Role Of Wes & Battle Your Way To Victory In This Pokémon RPG
Originally released in 2003, Pokémon Colosseum offered a fresh take on Pokémon adventures, blending the excitement of stadium battles with a compelling story-driven RPG experience. Players take on the role of Wes, accompanied by Rui, as they traverse the world of Pokémon Colosseum to rehabilitate corrupted Pokémon.
While the arrival of Pokémon games in the Nintendo Classics library has been limited to spin-offs, Pokémon Colosseum retains a special status among early fans of the franchise. Its depth and engaging content stand out, especially when compared to other Pokémon titles like Pokémon Stadium. As of now, there’s no confirmed launch date for this title on the NSO Classics Library.
9 Build A Collection Of Ghostly Portraits In Luigi’s Mansion
Help Luigi Capture Ghosts And Save Mario In The Game That Started It All
As a launch title for the Nintendo GameCube, Luigi’s Mansion rightfully claims its spot in the upcoming GameCube Classics library. While it may not be available on launch day, its significance in the franchise is undeniable. Players guide Luigi through a mansion teeming with ghosts, utilizing the Poltergust 3000, a remarkable vacuum designed to capture spirits. This nostalgic journey, albeit simpler than its sequels, continues to captivate players.
8 Help Spread The Joy In Chibi-Robo! Plug Into Adventure
Bring Happiness To The Sanderson Family As A Tiny Robot
Chibi-Robo! Plug Into Adventure! introduces players to the charming world of a small robot, Chibi-Robo, tasked with brightening the lives of the Sanderson family. As you navigate through various household tasks, the game’s heartwarming premise of spreading joy resonates well with players.
The enduring popularity of Chibi-Robo has led to multiple entries in the franchise. However, titles from later consoles like the Nintendo DS may not see a re-release anytime soon. Yet, with a decade passing since the last game, there remains hope for a new chapter in this endearing series if interest continues to grow.
7 Take To The Field In Super Mario Strikers
Super Mario Strikers Features Unique Twists On A Classic Sport
Released as Mario Smash Football in certain regions, Super Mario Strikers is a unique spin on traditional soccer games. Leveraging iconic Nintendo characters, this 2005 title allows players to form dynamic teams and engage in matches filled with tactical gameplay and cartoonish sabotage. Its return to the Classics library seems fitting, particularly given the ongoing popularity of Super Mario sports titles.
6 Shadow Lugia Takes Center Stage In Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness
Experience The First Instance Of Shadow Lugia While You Work To Stop Cipher
Another exciting title slated for the Nintendo GameCube Classics Library is Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness. Not a direct sequel but thematically linked to Pokémon Colosseum, this game allows players to immerse themselves in battles while working to purify shadow Pokémon. Its narrative unfolds five years after the original, providing a fresh storyline yet familiar gameplay elements.
5 Restore Crimea To Glory In Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance
Take A Chance On A Classic From A Beloved Franchise
As the ninth installment in the Fire Emblem series, Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance presents an intricate storyline centered on the Kingdom of Crimea. Players follow Ike as he seeks to restore the heir while uniting various factions against common foes. Its introduction to the Nintendo Switch Online Classics library reflects the franchise’s continued relevance among gamers.
4 Explore An Iconic 3D World In Super Mario Sunshine
A 3D Classic Finally Returns To The Switch And Is Here To Stay
Now that Super Mario Sunshine is set to make its return on modern consoles, gamers who missed out on the Super Mario 3D All-Stars Bundle can finally explore this beloved classic once more. It’s a nostalgic opportunity for fans, and there’s hope the series could expand further with the eventual release of titles like Super Mario Galaxy.
3 Jump Back Into The Race With F-Zero GX
Race Up To Three Friends Online In This Enhanced NSO Version
Among the initial titles launching with the Nintendo Classics GameCube feature is F-Zero GX, a thrilling racing game first introduced in 2003. This modern revival allows up to four players to race online, an exciting feature absent from its original release. Players can look forward to enhanced quality and resolution, making this the definitive version of F-Zero GX.
2 Warm Up Your Fighting Skills In Soulcalibur II
Soulcalibur II Is One Of Many Iconic Fighting Games Coming To The Nintendo Switch 2
While technically the third installment in the long-running series, Soulcalibur II is celebrated for its innovative mechanics and expansive character roster. As the first fighting title available on the Nintendo Switch Online GameCube Classics library, it arrives just in time for fighters seeking engaging gameplay and competition, paving the way for future releases in the genre.
1 Embark On Toon Link’s Original Adventure In The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker
Following The HD Remake, Wind Waker Makes Its Way To Modern Consoles Once Again
The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, initially released in 2002, has been reintroduced to modern gamers following its successful HD remake in 2013. While the specifics of enhancements remain undisclosed, this return may include visual upgrades akin to those in the HD version. Furthermore, this paves the way for potential future releases, such as The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess on the Nintendo Switch 2.
With three confirmed launch titles and an array of other nostalgic games in the pipeline, Nintendo fans should stay tuned for updates leading up to the June 5, 2025, launch date. Exciting times are ahead for retro gaming enthusiasts seeking to relive their cherished GameCube memories.