Initially launched over two decades ago, the Nintendo GameCube is now a thing of the past, and until recently, there was no authorized method to download classic games from this era on any Nintendo platform… until the advent of the Switch 2. However, it’s important to note that Nintendo isn’t planning to make its entire collection of GameCube games available all at once, but rather, they are likely to gradually release the library, keeping fans of the Switch 2 on their toes.
Starting from the first day, you’ll find just three games specifically designed for the Nintendo Switch 2 that you can enjoy. This guide will help you identify these initial offerings, as well as the games Nintendo has pledged to add in the future.
All GameCube Games on Nintendo Switch 2
So Far…
Starting June 5th, if you’ve got a Switch 2 and have an active Switch Online Expansion Pack subscription, you’ll get the chance to enjoy playing games like The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-Zero GX, and not forgetting SoulCalibur 2 (with Link as a character!).
Apart from appearing slightly enhanced compared to their initial versions, the games will also offer a vintage CRT mode, save points, and the option for online and local wireless multiplayer (for compatible games). For those who enjoy competitive play, you’ll have the chance to use GameChat, allowing you to listen to your friends curse as you defeat them in SoulCalibur or leave them behind in an F-Zero GX race.
GameCube Games Coming in the Future…
Where’s Smash Bros. Melee?
Initially, when Nintendo unveiled that GameCube games would appear on Switch, they displayed various titles that will eventually join the platform. Yet, no specific launch dates for these games have been revealed as of now. Here’s a list of the games we have information on at this point…
- Pokemon Colosseum
- Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness
- Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance
- Luigi’s Mansion
- Super Mario Sunshine
- Chibi-Robo! Plug Into Adventure!
- Super Mario Strikers
How Much Are GameCube Games on Switch 2?
There’s a Catch!
At this point, it’s not possible for Nintendo Switch 2 users to buy digital GameCube games as personal property. Instead, they can access these games by subscribing to the Switch Online’s Expansion Pack, which has an annual fee of $50. This subscription also grants access to a collection of N64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis games, along with certain DLC offerings such as “Happy Home Paradise” for “Animal Crossing: New Horizons” and the single-player “Octo Expansion” for “Splatoon 2”.
How to Get the GameCube Controller for Switch 2
For NSO Members Only
Sadly, to secure a stylish new GameCube controller for the Switch 2, not just a subscription to Nintendo Switch Online is required, but it can currently only be obtained through Nintendo’s official store. At this moment, however, the throwback controller priced at $64.99 is not available for pre-order or purchase, so you may need to wait until after the launch if you haven’t pre-ordered it already.
The new GameCube controller comes with a USB-C port, a GameChat button, and a Capture button. For now, this controller can be used to play only GameCube titles via Switch Online.
The latest version of the GameCube controller has a USB-C connection, a button for chat, and a Capture button. Currently, it is compatible with playing GameCube games exclusively through Nintendo’s online service called Switch Online.
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2025-06-03 21:54