Nintendo Switch Online’s Expansion Pack now offers several GameCube classics on Switch 2. Nintendo Life ranks these titles, highlighting their unique qualities and gameplay experiences.
Pokémon Colosseum stands out as a distinct Pokémon spin-off where players capture Pokémon from opponents rather than the wild, with multiplayer tournaments and Game Boy Advance connectivity for trading.
Mario Smash Football (known as Super Mario Strikers in the US) delivers fast-paced five-a-side soccer featuring Mushroom Kingdom characters. Developed by Next Level Games, it offers an arcade-style alternative to traditional football games and was originally prototyped as a hybrid platformer.
The sequel, Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness, builds on Colosseum’s concepts with Shadow Pokémon and purification mechanics. It also supports GBA to GameCube link for battling and trading, providing another 3D Pokémon adventure before the mainline series transitioned fully to 3D.
Chibi-Robo defies easy classification, blending platforming and adventure elements as players help the Sanderson family solve everyday challenges. The cute robot protagonist remains a memorable character, supported by an amiibo.
Super Mario Sunshine, available on Switch via Super Mario 3D All-Stars, is a charming but less polished sequel to Super Mario 64. While rushed in development, it features unique mechanics, a vibrant setting, and remains a beloved underdog in the Mario franchise.
SoulCalibur II for GameCube is notable for its weapon-based combat and the addition of Link from The Legend of Zelda, enhancing an already critically acclaimed fighting game originally on Dreamcast.
Luigi’s Mansion, GameCube’s launch title, offers a quirky genre parody. Initially misunderstood due to its departure from traditional Mario platforming, it gained appreciation following sequels and remasters, praised for its charm and gameplay.
Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance was the first home console Fire Emblem released in the West. It introduced fully 3D graphics and a compelling story centered on Ike, who later appeared in Super Smash Bros. Brawl. Although physically rare and dated in presentation, it remains a series highlight.
F-Zero GX delivers intense, high-speed racing with a story mode adding depth. Known for its difficulty and lasting impact, it’s the most recent full home console entry in the franchise and is praised for its visuals and gameplay.
The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker overcame initial controversy to become a fan favorite thanks to its vibrant art style, memorable soundtrack, and captivating seafaring adventure. Despite some flaws, it remains a standout in the Zelda series and received an HD remake on Wii U.
Alongside these, several other GameCube titles are playable on Switch and Switch 2, including remastered versions of Metroid Prime, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door, Pikmin, Baten Kaitos, Resident Evil Remake and Resident Evil 4, Spongebob Squarepants: Battle for Bikini Bottom, Sphinx and the Cursed Mummy, and Tales of Symphonia.
Users can influence the dynamic rankings on Nintendo Life by submitting ratings for any GameCube games available on Switch 2. For those interested in accessing these games, a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership is required.