GameCube Classics Make Their Return with Nintendo Switch 2 Launch

Nintendo is officially reviving its GameCube legacy in a big way with the debut of the Switch 2, launching worldwide on June 5. At the forefront of this rollout is the introduction of GameCube titles to the Nintendo Classics lineup, optimized for modern play. Enhanced visuals, higher resolution, and refined control customization are all part of the experience, along with full support for online multiplayer—bringing new life to beloved titles from the early 2000s.

At launch, players can dive into The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, Soulcalibur 2, and F-Zero GX, with more titles confirmed to arrive soon. The reveal trailer hinted at a broader slate of games coming down the pipeline, including Super Mario Sunshine, Luigi’s Mansion, Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance, Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness, Chibi-Robo, Super Mario Strikers, and Pokémon Colosseum. While Nintendo hasn’t yet provided a schedule for future game drops, the promise of more additions has fans buzzing with excitement.

Adding to the nostalgia, Nintendo is releasing a GameCube-style controller built specifically for Switch 2. However, it comes with a catch—this retro-inspired accessory will initially only be offered to Nintendo Switch Online members who receive an exclusive invitation to pre-order the console through the My Nintendo Store.

In addition to classic games, Nintendo confirmed the Switch 2 will be powered by Nvidia’s DLSS upscaling technology, pointing to a major leap in performance and graphics. With the return of GameCube classics and significant hardware upgrades, Switch 2 is shaping up to be a bold evolution of the hybrid console era.