The recent Nintendo Switch 2 direct has sparked excitement, particularly with the announcement of GameCube games joining the Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) roster. Fans have long anticipated this addition ever since the Nintendo Classics feature was first mentioned when the original Switch was launched. Currently, only ten GameCube titles have been revealed, with three of them available on launch day.
Among the notable launch options are The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-Zero GX, and a pleasantly surprising inclusion of SoulCalibur II. However, some beloved GameCube classics are conspicuously absent from this initial lineup. Nevertheless, it’s reasonable to expect that Nintendo will gradually expand the selection of GameCube titles in future directs, as they have previously done with other retro consoles in the NSO collection. This leaves the door open for fans to see more timeless GameCube titles added in the near future.
10 Phantasy Star Online Is A Long Shot, But Worth It
PSO Likely Won’t Happen For Several Reasons, But It Would Still Be Great If It Did
Phantasy Star Online Episode 1 & 2 would indeed be a fantastic addition to the NSO GameCube library. However, it appears highly unlikely it will happen due to the necessity of online servers. Although NSO enables some multiplayer experiences, the core online functionalities of Phantasy Star Online would remain inaccessible without active servers.
Alternatively, it’s feasible that the game could be introduced with a disclaimer regarding the unavailability of online features. Yet, considering the minimal attention the game and its sequel Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis have received from SEGA, it seems improbable that Nintendo would invest the resources necessary to make this classic available on current consoles. That said, surprises do happen in the gaming world; thus, there remains a glimmer of hope that Nintendo recognizes the cultural significance of this beloved title among GameCube fans.
9 Star Fox Assault Was Overshadowed By Its Predecessor
Following Disappointing But Memorable Entry Predecessor, Star Fox Assault Is Often Forgotten
Star Fox: Assault is often overlooked in discussions surrounding exceptional GameCube titles. Although it showcased engaging gameplay that embodied the traditional essence of the franchise, it frequently gets eclipsed by its predecessor, Star Fox Adventures, which had already made a lasting impression on players.
While Star Fox Adventures strayed from the typical series format, its diversity contributed to its prominence. Reviving Star Fox: Assault on NSO could offer new gamers a chance to explore this hidden gem while providing the game with the recognition it deserves. This revival could also rekindle interest in a new iteration of the Star Fox series, benefiting both newcomers and longtime fans.
8 Mario Golf: Toadstool Tour Is A Standout Entry In A Popular Series
Mario Golf: Toadstool Tour Remains An Incredible Golf Game, Even Beyond Mario
Among numerous entries in the Mario Golf series, Mario Golf: Toadstool Tour remains a fan favorite. As the sixth installment, this GameCube title offers a unique level of shot control that makes it both enjoyable and challenging. Despite the success of Mario Tennis on the Nintendo Switch, the latest Mario Golf entry, Super Rush, failed to provide the expected upgrade.
Unlike its predecessor, Super Rush abandoned the beloved three-click system that defined the gameplay of Toadstool Tour, resulting in a less challenging experience. While Toadstool Tour could undoubtedly benefit from some updated courses and character options, the absence of a true upgrade leaves nostalgia for the original. Currently, the first Mario Golf game available on NSO is a decent option, but returning to Toadstool Tour would surely be a welcomed addition.
7 Super Smash Bros. Melee Is A Classic In Smash Bros. History
Despite A Limited Roster, Melee Is A Fan-Favorite In The Smash Bros. Lineup
Even in an era dominated by Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, which boasts an impressive roster and an active online community, the nostalgia for older series entries remains strong. This is particularly true for Super Smash Bros. Melee, which, despite its limited character selection, offers a fast-paced and highly skilled gaming environment.
Melee’s precise control mechanics allow players’ individual skills to shine more than in later installments. Although Nintendo appears to have placed the Smash franchise on the backburner with no news on future entries, fans maintain their hope for the return of Masahiro Sakurai to guide the series. To keep interest alive, adding such a classic title to NSO would be an excellent strategy while players await future updates.
6 Mario Party 6 Contains Some Of The Best Boards & Mini-Games
All Mario Party Titles Deserve To Be On Modern Consoles
It’s essential to integrate all Mario Party GameCube titles, including Mario Party 4, 5, 6, and 7, into the GameCube Nintendo Classics library. Although it is probable that all will eventually be featured, Mario Party 6 specifically excels with its entertaining boards and mini-games, making it a prime candidate for NSO, ideally as the first included title.
5 Eternal Darkness Is A Significant Piece Of The Horror Genre
The Horror Of Eternal Darkness Still Holds Up
Within the gaming landscape, horror remains a dominant genre, and Eternal Darkness: Sanity’s Requiem is often hailed as a landmark title within this category, even after more than 20 years. It is significant as Nintendo’s first game to receive a Mature rating, making its debut a notable moment for the GameCube. Despite its acclaim and critical success, however, it was ultimately a commercial disappointment due to poor sales figures.
Many attempts have been made to create a sequel, but none have come to fruition. While the idea of a direct continuation is appealing, Nintendo’s lack of support for a comprehensive remaster raises concerns about capturing the essence of the original. Still, this classic title deserves modern horror enthusiasts a chance to experience it, making its addition to NSO a move toward greater accessibility.
4 NSO Would Make The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Accessible Again
Currently Trapped On Dead Consoles, Twilight Princess Needs Some Attention
While The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker is undoubtedly a fantastic addition to the Nintendo Classics, it is unfortunate that another major title is absent from the initial launch. The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, a launch game for the Wii and one of the last notable releases for the GameCube, now finds itself stuck on what could be termed defunct consoles.
Although it did receive an HD remake for the Nintendo Wii U, Twilight Princess has now become trapped on older systems. While porting the HD version to the Switch would be ideal, if that is unfeasible, incorporating the original game into NSO would allow it to be accessible on modern consoles once again, providing a vital lifeline for this classic title.
3 Mario Kart: Double Dash Is A Forgotten Gem
Double Dash Is A Unique Mario Kart Everyone Should Play
Among the many titles in the Mario Kart franchise, Double Dash remains a standout due to its unique gameplay mechanics allowing players to select two characters per race along with an engaging Co-op mode. In contrast to the current Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and the newly announced Mario Kart World, the choices of characters influence gameplay significantly, diversifying strategies during competitions.
While it may not match the extensive content of newer releases, Double Dash’s charm, innovative features, and nostalgic allure make it deserving of a spot in the Nintendo Classics collection. Allowing a new generation of players to experience this classic title would celebrate its unique legacy.
2 Now Is The Perfect Time For Kirby Air Ride
With A Sequel On The Way, Players Deserve To Re-Experience The Original
The recent reveal of Kirby Air Riders as a sequel has generated excitement, as it has been nearly 22 years since the original game debuted. Expectations ran high for a new entry, given that the game’s creator, Masahiro Sakurai, has long expressed a desire to return to this beloved title.
Now that Kirby Air Riders is on the horizon, it presents an ideal opportunity to reintroduce players to the original. The omission of the original game from the initial NSO lineup may have been a strategic move to preserve the anticipation surrounding the sequel, but now that the secret is out, adding Kirby Air Ride to Nintendo Classics would be a fantastic way to celebrate the series’ history while generating enthusiasm ahead of the sequel’s release.
1 The Original Animal Crossing Belongs On The Switch 2
Considering ACNH Popularity, Animal Crossing On NSO Seems Like An Obvious Choice
Among the most surprising omissions from the Nintendo Classics GameCube selection is the original Animal Crossing. Despite its significant legacy in Nintendo’s history—especially following the immense success of Animal Crossing: New Horizons—it seems unusual that the foundational title of the franchise would not be included in the NSO offerings for the Nintendo Switch’s new generation.
Even though the original game’s mechanics differ significantly from ACNH, and there is no assurance that the current fanbase would embrace it, the absence of any news about a sequel further enhances the case for its addition. If no sequel is forthcoming for ACNH on the Nintendo Switch 2, incorporating the original game into Nintendo Classics would provide fans with a chance to engage with a piece of gaming history and offer newcomers an opportunity to experience the series’ roots.