The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct presentation was packed full of exciting announcements, including the arrival of a long-awaited library of games. Nintendo has finally confirmed that titles from the Nintendo GameCube system are coming to Nintendo Classics (the new name for the Nintendo Switch Online library of games). But there's a bit of a catch.
GameCube games will be locked behind the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership. This is the more expensive plan at $49.99. The real kicker is that even if you do pay for this membership, the games are only available on the Nintendo Switch 2.
The first batch of GameCube games will arrive on June 5th, the same day as the Switch 2's launch. Three games will be available at first: The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-ZERO GX, and SOULCALIBUR II.
Nintendo also mentions that more games will be added in the future. The announcement video showcased Super Mario Sunshine, Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance, Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness, Super Mario Strikers, Chibi-Robo! Plug Into Adventure!, Luigi's Mansion; and Pokemon Colosseum.
According to Nintendo, these classic games can be enjoyed with higher resolution and better image quality, customizable controls, and local or online multiplayer for games that support it. Other fun in-game options include a retro screen filter and widescreen gameplay.
For those who want a truly authentic GameCube experience, Nintendo also announced plans to launch a dedicated Nintendo GameCube Controller that looks and feels identical to the original controller. It will be available for purchase for $64.99.
The GameCube controller can connect wirelessly to the Switch 2 and includes the new C button to quickly access GameChat. GameChat is the new online feature that enables social activities such as party chat, screensharing, and more. It's not necessarily a revolutionary feature, as it's been around on PlayStation and Xbox consoles for years, but it is new to the Nintendo family of consoles.
Nintendo fans have long awaited to arrival of GameCube games on Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, and the wait is almost over. Unfortunately, you will have to upgrade to a Switch 2 to play these classic titles, and that won't come cheap. Nintendo confirmed that the Switch 2 will launch at a price of $449.99. The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack costs $49.99 a year for an Individual plan, while a Family plan costs $79.99. Both options include access to the massive library of Nintendo Classics that span the Nintendo Entertainment System, Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Game Boy, Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, SEGA Genesis, and soon Nintendo GameCube.