Every GameCube Game on Nintendo Switch Online So Far, Ranked

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Last year, Nintendo Switch Online added GameCube games to its collection of classic titles. However, you’ll need a Nintendo Switch 2 and an upgraded Expansion Pack membership to play them. The initial selection of GameCube games is quite good, so if you have a Switch 2, it’s definitely worth seeing what’s available.

Okay, so as of March 2026, Nintendo’s added 9 GameCube games to the Switch 2’s classic game library, and they’re planning to add Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness soon! It’s awesome – they’ve already added two new ones since the start of 2026, and I’m guessing we’ll see even more over the next year. But with a pretty solid list growing, I figured now’s a great time to rank them all. If you’re like me and itching to relive some GameCube memories, here’s my take on every available title, ranked from ‘nice to have’ to ‘absolutely essential’ for a replay.

9) Wario World

If you’re a fan of classic platforming games, Wario World, originally released on GameCube in 2003, is worth playing. However, it doesn’t quite capture the same magic as other Wario spin-offs, making it one of the less standout titles available on the Switch’s GameCube collection.

Okay, so Wario is still as funny as ever, which is awesome. But honestly, even when this game first came out in 2003, a lot of us thought the jumping and moving around felt a little old-school. Now that it’s being re-released as part of the GameCube classics, I’m a bit worried it might not feel as good to play as we’re hoping for.

8) Luigi’s Mansion

While the original Luigi’s Mansion isn’t as polished as newer games in the series, it’s still an enjoyable experience. Released in 2018 for the GameCube and 3DS, it was the first game to really showcase Luigi as the main character. Any fan of Mario’s brother should definitely check it out, but be aware that the gameplay can become a bit repetitive and the game is relatively short.

Luigi’s Mansion is a fun and visually appealing game where you hunt ghosts, with a charming story to follow. However, it doesn’t offer a lot of different gameplay experiences and is relatively short. While those who played it when it first came out might not find much new to enjoy, it’s definitely worth playing for the first time if you have a Switch 2 and a Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack subscription.

7) Super Mario Strikers

The Super Mario Strikers series offers a unique take on soccer with a Mario twist. The first game, released in 2005, was immediately popular thanks to its strong gameplay, which is best enjoyed with friends. However, like other Mario sports games, it’s geared towards a more casual audience.

Playing Super Mario Strikers is most fun with friends, though the single-player mode is enjoyable for a while. It’s a favorite among soccer game fans, and many believe this version is even better than the 2022 Nintendo Switch game. If you’re into sports titles, it’s worth checking out. However, the GameCube has other classic games that might be a better fit if you’re not a big sports fan.

6) Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness

This game isn’t currently part of the Nintendo Switch Online library, but it’s scheduled to be added in March 2026. I’m mentioning it now because it will be available soon, and you might be curious if it’s any good. The verdict? It’s complicated. When it first came out, opinions were divided, and Pokemon fans still debate whether it’s worth playing.

Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness is a sequel to Pokemon Colosseum, and both games were released for the GameCube. While often considered not as strong as Colosseum, it can still be enjoyable for dedicated Pokemon fans looking for a retro experience. However, it has received criticism for its simple story and gameplay, so you might find more modern Pokemon games on the Switch 2 to be a better choice.

5) Chibi-Robo !

Released in 2006 for the GameCube, Chibi-Robo! features a charming little robot whose main goal is to help people. It launched a series of games, but many fans consider the first one the strongest. If you’re looking for a sweet, fun game that also brings back memories of the GameCube, Chibi-Robo! is a great choice.

Chibi-Robo! is a hidden treasure from the GameCube days that many people overlooked. You play as a tiny robot who completes chores to earn points and overcome obstacles. While the graphics might look a little old-fashioned, the game has a sweet story, great sound, and offers a relaxing platforming experience. If you’re looking for a charming and unique game, it’s worth checking out on the Switch 2.

4) F-Zero GX

Lots of Nintendo fans would love to see the F-Zero series return, but a new game doesn’t seem likely right now. The last main F-Zero game, F-Zero GX, came out in 2003 and was very well-received by both critics and players. If you’re a racing game enthusiast, F-Zero GX is considered one of the best classic GameCube titles currently available on the Switch.

F-Zero GX is a fast-paced, futuristic racing game where players compete in a galaxy-wide Grand Prix. Considered by many to be a refinement of the original N64 title, it’s a challenging but highly enjoyable experience that rewards strategic thinking. The game offers a lot of variety with different modes and customization options, making it a great addition to the racing library for Switch 2 fans, especially those who enjoy Mario Kart World.

3) Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance

The Fire Emblem series is a classic in the world of Japanese role-playing games (JRPGs), and it’s still going strong with a new installment planned for release this year. While there are more highly-rated Fire Emblem titles, the 2005 GameCube game Path of Radiance remains a fantastic JRPG. This makes it a great game to play on the Switch 2 through its GameCube library.

Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance tells a self-contained story, like many games in the Fire Emblem series, so you don’t need to have played any previous titles to enjoy it. The game takes place in the world of Tellius, where you’ll fight to stop a powerful dark god from returning. It offers challenging and rewarding turn-based battles, and a large cast of characters to recruit. If you’re a fan of Japanese role-playing games, this is a classic worth playing.

2) The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker

Nearly every Legend of Zelda game is enjoyable, and The Wind Waker is a prime example. Originally released in 2002 as the first Zelda title for GameCube, it remains one of the most critically acclaimed games in the series. Featuring a compelling story, impressive animation for its time, and gameplay that’s still fun today, The Wind Waker is a fantastic retro game to play again on the Switch 2.

In The Wind Waker, Link sets out to rescue his sister from the recurring villain, Ganon. The game takes place across a vast ocean, and players sail between islands to find the items needed to defeat him – yet again! If you’re a fan of The Legend of Zelda series, or just looking for a great GameCube title, you’ll likely enjoy this adventure.

1) Soul Calibur 2

Whether you’re a fan of fighting games or not, Soul Calibur 2 is definitely worth playing. It’s still one of my favorite games from the GameCube days, and many others agree. It’s consistently ranked as one of the best in the Soul Calibur series, which hasn’t had a new game since 2018. Currently, Soul Calibur 2 is a standout title among the GameCube games available on Nintendo Switch Online.

The Soul Calibur series began as popular arcade games, and the versions released for home consoles were even better. Soul Calibur 2 is a great fighting game with a story mode that’s surprisingly captivating. The GameCube version is especially unique, letting you play as Link from The Legend of Zelda. Even if you don’t usually enjoy fighting games, Soul Calibur 2 offers impressive graphics and gameplay that will appeal to a wide range of players.

Which GameCube games would you like to see on Nintendo Switch Online? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the discussion on the ComicBook Forum!

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2026-03-14 23:13