Big news, Nintendo fans! Classic GameCube titles are finally making their way to the Nintendo Switch Online service, starting June 5, 2025. This long-awaited update arrives alongside the powerful Nintendo Switch 2, breathing new life into some of Nintendo’s most beloved games.
From Super Mario Sunshine to Luigi’s Mansion, these nostalgic adventures are being revived with modern features—perfect for both longtime fans and curious newcomers.
A Dream Come True for GameCube Fans
Nintendo has listened. Fans have been asking for GameCube support on modern consoles for years, and now it’s real. For the first time ever, official GameCube emulation will be part of the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack service, starting this summer.
These games aren’t just basic ports. They’re remastered with updated visuals, better frame rates, and cloud save support. The announcement marks a historic moment, bringing forward some of Nintendo’s finest creations from the early 2000s.
Day-One GameCube Titles on Switch Online
Nintendo will kick off the lineup with a curated selection of GameCube classics available from day one
- Super Mario Sunshine – Jump into the sun-soaked world of Isle Delfino
- Luigi’s Mansion – Explore a haunted mansion full of charm and ghosts
- The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker – Set sail on a timeless journey across the ocean
- F-Zero GX – Race at lightning speed in this futuristic thrill ride
- Metroid Prime – Step into Samus’s suit in this iconic first-person adventure
- Pikmin – Command your plant-like squad in this unique real-time strategy game
These six titles offer a strong start, covering a mix of genres that highlight the GameCube’s depth.
Powered by the Nintendo Switch 2
While older Switch models won’t support this GameCube update, the Nintendo Switch 2 is designed to run these classics smoothly. Enhanced processing allows higher resolutions, shorter load times, and overall better performance.
Not only do these upgrades make the games look better, but they also maintain their original charm. Nintendo has carefully balanced quality with nostalgia, giving each game the respect it deserves.
New Controllers, Classic Feel
To add more authenticity, Nintendo will also release GameCube-style wireless controllers. These will be compatible with Switch 2 and optimized for the new remasters. However, players can still enjoy the games with standard Joy-Cons or Pro Controllers.
This flexibility ensures that both retro fans and new players feel right at home.
A Global Rollout with Language Support
The update will include multi-language options, making these iconic games more accessible around the world. Whether you’re revisiting old favorites or diving into them for the first time, you can experience them in the language that suits you best.
Online features like leaderboards, friend invites, and shared screenshots are also expected, making the experience feel fresh and social.
Nostalgia Meets the Next Generation
These GameCube releases do more than feed nostalgia—they introduce an entirely new generation to legendary Nintendo design. The level design, music, and gameplay of these titles set standards that still influence modern gaming today.
Nintendo’s decision to bring back these classics reflects a clear strategy: connect past, present, and future players through shared experiences.
What’s Coming Next?
While Nintendo hasn’t revealed every title yet, insiders suggest that more games are already lined up for monthly drops. Possible future additions may include:
- Mario Kart: Double Dash!!
- Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door
- Animal Crossing (original)
- Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance
With such exciting possibilities, this launch may just be the beginning of a massive retro revival.
Final Thoughts
June 5, 2025, will go down as a milestone for Nintendo fans. The arrival of GameCube games on Switch Online gives players a new way to enjoy old favorites. It’s not just about nostalgia—it’s about keeping legendary games alive and playable for years to come.
Whether you’re racing in F-Zero or solving puzzles with Pikmin, you’re stepping into history—only now, it’s smoother, sharper, and more connected than ever.
Stay tuned to Baskin Gamer as we bring you the latest updates on game news, releases, and more!
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