The Nintendo GameCube originally came out over 20 years ago now, and since then, there has been no official way to download some of the most iconic games of all time on a Nintendo console... Until the Switch 2. Now, Nintendo isn't releasing its entire library of GameCube games at the same time, but will more than likely drip-feed the catalog to keep Switch 2 players waiting.
On day one, only three GameCube games came out on the Switch 2, and this guide will go over those games and everything else coming to the console.
Updated on January 9, 2025: We updated this list of GameCube games and added Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance.
GameCube Games That Are Worth A Small Fortune Nowadays
If you own these games, they may be worth some money.
All GameCube Games on Nintendo Switch 2
So Far...
If you are subscribed to Switch Online's Expansion Pack and own a Switch 2, you have access to the following GameCube games:
- The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker - Released June 5, 2025
- F-Zero GX - Released June 5, 2025
- SoulCalibur 2 (featuring Link!) - Released June 5, 2025
- Super Mario Strikers - Released July 3, 2025
- Chibi-Robo! Plug Into Adventure! - Out August 21, 2025
- Luigi's Mansion - Out October 30, 2025
- Wario World - Out December 11, 2025
- Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance - Out January 8, 2026
Not only do GC games look a little bit better than their original formats, but fans can use a retro CRT mode, suspend points, and online and local wireless play (for multiplayer-supported games). Of course, you can also use GameChat if you would like to hear your friends cry when you take them down in SoulCalibur or demolish them in a F-Zero GX race.
GameCube Games Coming in the Future...
Where's Smash Bros. Melee?
When Nintendo first announced that GameCube games were coming to Switch, they showcased several other titles that would eventually be available on the service. However, none of these games have release windows yet. Here are the games we know about so far...
- Pokemon Colosseum
- Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness
- Super Mario Sunshine
All Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Games
The Nintendo Switch 2 is Nintendo's latest console to hit store shelves, but what games will be available on day one? Here's what you need to know!
How Much Are GameCube Games on Switch 2?
There's a Catch!
So, for the time being, Nintendo Switch 2 owners cannot purchase and own digital GameCube games. The only way to play them is by subscribing to Switch Online's Expansion Pack, which costs $50 a year. You will also be able to check out the N64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis' library of games, including some DLC, like Happy Home Paradise for Animal Crossing: New Horizons and the single-player-focused Octo Expansion for Splatoon 2.
How to Get the GameCube Controller for Switch 2
For NSO Members Only
Unfortunately, if you want to get your hands on one of the snazzy new GameCube controllers for the Switch 2, not only will you need to be subscribed to Nintendo Switch Online, but you can only get it right now via Nintendo's official storefront. However, as of the time of writing, the $64.99 throwback controller is unavailable for pre-order/purchase, so you might have to wait until after launch if you haven't pre-ordered already.
The GameCube controller will have a USB-C port, a GameChat button, and a Capture button. For now, it seems that you'll only be able to use the controller for the GameCube titles through Switch Online.
- Brand
- Nintendo
- Operating System
- Proprietary
- Storage
- 256GB internal / MicroSD
- Resolution
- 1080p (handheld) / 4K (docked)
- App Store
- Nintendo eShop
- Wi-Fi
- Yes