Title: Nintendo GameCube Integrates with Switch 2 Virtual Console: Anticipations and Desires for Future Additions

Following years of speculation and fervent requests from fans, Nintendo has officially announced the arrival of GameCube titles to the Nintendo Switch Online service, specifically through the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. Set to debut on June 5, the next-gen console will feature a specialized GameCube application for subscribers of the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack tier. This marks the inaugural occasion these cherished games will be accessible on contemporary hardware via emulation.

The GameCube, Nintendo’s fourth home console, cultivated a devoted following though it never attained the commercial success of its rivals. Nonetheless, its collection of pioneering, genre-defining, and frequently experimental games has garnered a loyal fanbase. With the confirmation of its launch on the Switch 2, Nintendo is finally allowing this undervalued treasure to shine.

Let’s explore the initial offerings, what’s been confirmed for the future, and the titles we’re eager to see added to the virtual console.

Confirmed Day-One GameCube Titles

Nintendo is kicking off with a strong launch slate of GameCube classics debuting on June 5:

– The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker
– Soulcalibur II
– F-Zero GX

These three titles embody a diverse array of genres—from maritime adventures to adrenaline-pumping racing and combat-centered fighting. But this is merely the start.

Confirmed Future Additions

Nintendo has also revealed several additional beloved titles set to join the GameCube app shortly:

– Super Mario Sunshine
– Luigi’s Mansion
– Pokémon Colosseum
– Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness
– Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance
– Super Mario Strikers
– Chibi-Robo!

This already robust list encompasses some of the most sought-after and iconic titles from the GameCube era, highlighting Nintendo’s commitment to this rollout.

What’s Missed? Our Top 5 Desired Additions

While the confirmed selection is impressive, it only offers a glimpse into the GameCube’s extensive library. Below are five additional titles we would love to see incorporated into the Nintendo Switch 2’s GameCube app.

5. Eternal Darkness: Sanity’s Requiem

As a psychological horror masterpiece, Eternal Darkness was groundbreaking for its time. Created by Silicon Knights and published by Nintendo, it melded Lovecraftian horror with gameplay that played with players’ perceptions—literally. Being Nintendo’s first M-rated title may complicate its addition to the typical GameCube app. Nevertheless, with Nintendo recently launching a separate N64 app for mature games like Turok and Perfect Dark, there’s optimism that Eternal Darkness could find a place on the Switch 2.

4. Animal Crossing

The original Animal Crossing was a whimsical, charming life simulation game that set the stage for one of Nintendo’s most adored franchises. While New Horizons catapulted the series to mainstream popularity, the GameCube edition provides a more authentic and nostalgic experience. Featuring sassier villagers, Mr. Resetti’s well-known rants, and a less prominent role for the player, this iteration is a nostalgic gem worth exploring again. Technical challenges like the real-time clock and memory card save features could pose difficulties, yet the rewards would be significant.

3. Mario Kart: Double Dash!!

Possibly the most distinctive installment in the Mario Kart franchise, Double Dash!! introduced karts with dual characters, adding a new layer of strategy and chaos to the racing experience. With Mario Kart World launching concurrently with the Switch 2, incorporating Double Dash!! into the virtual console would be a fitting tribute to the series’ development. Furthermore, it would provide fans with another reason to purchase those period-appropriate GameCube controllers that Nintendo is re-releasing.

2. Sonic Adventure 2: Battle

Initially a Dreamcast release, Sonic Adventure 2 found renewed attention on the GameCube through the Battle edition. It introduced the character Shadow the Hedgehog, featured classic music tracks like “Escape from the City,” and included the beloved Chao Garden. While fans are eagerly requesting a complete remaster, making the original available on Switch 2 would serve as an excellent interim solution—and a nostalgic throwback for longtime Sonic enthusiasts. Sega has already collaborated with Nintendo on Genesis titles for the service, making this a likely addition.

1. Super Smash Bros. Melee

No GameCube title has left a more enduring legacy than Super Smash Bros. Melee. Still revered within competitive gaming communities, Melee is celebrated for its responsive mechanics, fast-paced action, and engaging unlock system. With the Expansion Pack tier already packed with value, incorporating Melee would be a significant triumph for both Nintendo and its fans. It would also aid in preserving an essential piece of gaming history, especially if a new Smash title isn’t on the immediate horizon.

What’s Not Yet Included