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Nintendo Switch Online GameCube Classics: What’s Available, What Works, and What’s Missing

Nintendo Switch Online GameCube Classics have finally arrived, and fans are eager to dive into the nostalgic lineup. Whether you’re revisiting favorites like The Wind Waker or hoping for hidden gems like Baten Kaitos, the newly launched service is generating buzz. Available through the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, this new library brings selected GameCube titles to the Nintendo Switch 2 starting June 5, 2025. Players are curious: Which games are available now? How well do they perform? And what’s coming next? If you're wondering whether this service is worth subscribing to—or just want to know which titles are included—you’re in the right place.

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Current Highlights of Nintendo Switch Online GameCube Classics

Nintendo has kicked off the GameCube library with four notable titles: The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, Soul Calibur 2, F-Zero GX, and Super Mario Strikers. These classics are available right now with a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership. So far, the selection leans heavily into fan-favorite action and adventure games that showcase what the GameCube era did best—stylized graphics, tight controls, and memorable gameplay loops.

One impressive aspect is how well these games have been optimized for the new hardware. Titles with native widescreen support like F-Zero GX and Soul Calibur 2 shine in handheld mode, delivering smooth visuals and an updated experience that still feels authentic. The newly released GameCube-style wireless controller pairs effortlessly with the Switch 2, offering excellent ergonomics and battery life that enhances long play sessions. From performance to controls, Nintendo has clearly invested effort into making sure the launch titles meet expectations.

What Could Be Better in Nintendo Switch Online GameCube Classics

Despite a promising start, the GameCube Classics collection isn’t perfect. Performance inconsistencies have been noted, especially with frame rate dips and occasional input lag in some titles. While nothing game-breaking, these hiccups can affect immersion—especially in high-speed games like F-Zero GX. Fans have also pointed out the lack of customization options for controls or visual enhancements, a feature many expect in 2025.

Another concern lies in the drip-feed rollout of additional games. So far, titles like Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance, Luigi’s Mansion, Chibi-Robo!, Super Mario Sunshine, Pokémon Colosseum, and Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness have been announced, but they’ll reportedly launch at a pace of one per month. While this gives users something to look forward to, some argue that the service needs a more robust initial offering to justify the Expansion Pack’s cost. Nintendo hasn’t confirmed whether games like Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door or Eternal Darkness will make it to the library, leaving plenty of wishful thinking among longtime fans.

Wishlist: Most Wanted Titles for Nintendo Switch Online GameCube Classics

Nintendo’s GameCube lineup was home to many cult classics and underrated masterpieces. Fans are already buzzing about what games might be added next to Nintendo Switch Online GameCube Classics. On most wishlists, Super Smash Bros. Melee is a top contender—it remains one of the most beloved competitive fighting games ever made. However, licensing and online play compatibility might pose challenges. Other popular requests include Metroid Prime, Viewtiful Joe, Skies of Arcadia Legends, Beyond Good & Evil, and the aforementioned Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door.

Adding third-party games and niche titles could make the service stand out. For example, games like Baten Kaitos Origins or Lost Kingdoms II would appeal to RPG fans and showcase the GameCube’s diversity beyond platformers and racers. To fully capitalize on the nostalgia factor and attract new subscribers, Nintendo will need to strike a balance between heavy hitters and lesser-known gems. Ideally, we’ll also see visual updates, smoother performance patches, and perhaps even bonus features like save states or online multiplayer for older games.

Nintendo Switch Online GameCube Classics offer a great start with iconic titles that feel fresh on modern hardware. The integration with Switch 2 features, including wireless GameCube controllers and crisp handheld visuals, helps elevate the experience beyond simple emulation. However, the limited launch catalog and some performance issues show there’s room to improve.

If you’re a fan of Nintendo history or missed out on the GameCube era, this subscription service is a great opportunity to explore one of the company's most creative consoles. The success of this feature will ultimately depend on how committed Nintendo is to expanding and optimizing the library. As we look toward 2026, the hope is that this won’t just be a nostalgia grab but a well-curated collection that honors what made the GameCube special.